Tender Crock Pot French Dip

Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are a delicious and effortless way to enjoy tender, flavorful beef slowly cooked until it falls apart in rich au jus gravy. This recipe is great for busy weeknights because you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does the work, delivering juicy shredded beef packed with savory aroma ready to be piled onto soft sub rolls.

I first made this recipe when I had unexpected guests and it saved the day. Now it’s a family favorite that everyone asks for, especially when we want comfort food but no fuss in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Beef round steak or chuck roast: choose a well marbled, fresh cut for best flavor and tenderness
• Onion soup mix: adds a savory, slightly sweet depth you can make your own homemade mix for a fresher taste
• Au jus gravy mix: essential for that signature dipping sauce look for high quality packets without too many additives
• Beef broth or stock: opt for low sodium if you want to control salt adds richness and moisture during cooking
• Water: balances the broth and seasoning for the perfect cooking liquid
• Mozzarella or provolone cheese: provolone is classic for French dip but mozzarella melts beautifully and adds mild creaminess
• Sub rolls: soft and fresh rolls hold the beef well French bread works too if you want a crispier bite

Instructions

Sear the Beef:

Heat a little oil in a pan over medium high heat. Brown each side of the beef roast for a few minutes, just until golden. This step builds flavor through caramelization but you don’t want to cook it all the way through.

Combine the Cooking Liquid:

In a medium bowl, mix beef broth, onion soup mix, au jus seasoning, and water until fully combined. This flavorful mixture will tenderize and infuse the beef as it cooks.

Cook in Slow Cooker:

Place the browned beef in the slow cooker. Pour the broth mixture over the beef. Cover with the lid and cook on low for about eight hours. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking as this lets out heat and extends the cooking time.

Shred the Meat:

About an hour before serving, remove the beef and shred it finely with two forks. Return shredded beef to the slow cooker and let it soak in the juices for another hour.

Toast and Assemble:

Place sub rolls on a baking sheet. Spoon generous portions of the shredded beef onto each roll. Top with slices of cheese. Place under a broiler for a few minutes just until the cheese melts and the rolls get a touch toasted. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Serve with Au Jus:

Strain the au jus from the slow cooker if desired to remove any solids. You can add a little extra beef broth to increase the dipping sauce volume. Serve sandwiches hot with au jus on the side for dipping.

I love using chuck roast for this recipe because the marbling melts into the meat creating rich flavor. One family memory I cherish is making these sandwiches after a big winter hike and sitting together warmed by the melted cheese and savory jus.

Storage Tips

Store leftover beef and au jus separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or slow cooker. Assemble sandwiches just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try using sliced roast beef or shaved steak if short on time these cook faster and still taste great. Use beef broth concentrates or homemade beef stock in place of store bought broth for a richer au jus. Cheese can be swapped out for Swiss or cheddar for a different flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

Aside from classic French fries or chips, serve these sandwiches with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the rich meat. Add pickles or horseradish sauce on the side for an extra punch.

These Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are perfect for busy nights and sure to become a family favorite.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What cut of beef is best for this dish?

Chuck roast or beef round steak works best due to their tenderness when slow-cooked.

→ Can I make the onion soup mix at home?

Yes, homemade onion soup mix can be substituted to avoid packaged seasonings.

→ What type of cheese is recommended?

Provolone is traditional, but mozzarella also melts well and complements the beef.

→ Is it necessary to brown the beef before slow cooking?

While optional, browning beef beforehand enhances flavor and texture.

→ What kind of rolls should I use?

Soft sub rolls or French bread work nicely to hold the shredded beef and melted cheese.

→ How is the au jus sauce prepared?

Au jus mix combined with beef broth and water creates a rich dipping sauce for the sandwiches.