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Savory French Dip Sandwiches Recipe with Rich Au Jus Perfect for Easy Dinner

French dip sandwiches - featured image

Tender roast beef sandwiches with caramelized onions and melted cheese served with a rich, flavorful au jus for dipping. Perfect for quick dinners and cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef (preferably from the deli or leftover roast)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing and added richness)
  • 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh, finely chopped)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 French rolls or hoagie buns
  • 8 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional, caramelized)
  • Butter or olive oil (for toasting buns)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Au Jus: In a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, dry red wine (optional), minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and reduce slightly for about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat.
  2. Caramelize the Onions (Optional): Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onion and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and sweet, about 20-25 minutes. Add a splash of water if onions start to stick. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sear the Roast Beef: In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed and heat over medium-high. Quickly sear the thinly sliced roast beef for 1-2 minutes to warm and add caramelization. Remove and keep warm.
  4. Toast the Buns: Cut French rolls or hoagie buns in half lengthwise. Spread butter or brush olive oil on cut sides. Toast in a hot skillet or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
  5. Assemble the Sandwiches: Place a generous layer of seared roast beef on the bottom half of each bun. Top with caramelized onions and 2 slices of cheese. Close the sandwich with the top half of the bun.
  6. Melt the Cheese: Place sandwiches back in the skillet or under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.
  7. Serve with Au Jus: Pour warm au jus into small bowls for dipping. Serve sandwiches hot alongside.

Notes

If au jus tastes flat, add a splash of soy sauce or extra Worcestershire sauce. Slice roast beef very thin for best texture and flavor absorption. Avoid boiling au jus to prevent bitterness. Toast buns well to prevent sogginess. Caramelizing onions adds sweet balance to the savory beef.

Nutrition

Keywords: French dip sandwich, roast beef sandwich, au jus, caramelized onions, easy dinner, comfort food, sandwich recipe