Print

Crispy French Dip Sandwich Recipe with Provolone and Easy Au Jus Dip

crispy french dip sandwich - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and delicious crispy French dip sandwich featuring savory roast beef, melted provolone cheese, and a rich, flavorful au jus dip. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

  • French rolls or hoagie buns, split (preferably crusty rolls like baguette or ciabatta)
  • Thinly sliced roast beef (deli-fresh or leftover homemade roast)
  • Provolone cheese slices (about 1 slice per sandwich)
  • Unsalted butter, softened (about 1 tablespoon per sandwich side)
  • Garlic powder (a light sprinkle)
  • Beef broth or stock, 2 cups (low sodium preferred)
  • Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic cloves, minced, 2 cloves
  • Onion powder, 1 teaspoon
  • Fresh thyme or dried thyme, 1 teaspoon (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional extras: Horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard, caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Prepare the au jus dip: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups beef broth, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon thyme. Stir occasionally and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened and flavorful. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Keep warm on low heat.
  2. Prep the bread: While the au jus simmers, slice your French rolls or hoagie buns if not already sliced. Spread a generous layer of softened unsalted butter mixed with a light sprinkle of garlic powder evenly on the inside of each half.
  3. Toast the bread: Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Place the buttered sides of the bread down onto the pan. Toast until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. Remove and set aside.
  4. Assemble the sandwich: Layer thin slices of roast beef generously onto the bottom half of the toasted roll. Top with a slice of provolone cheese. If desired, add caramelized onions or horseradish sauce. Place the sandwich back into the skillet, cover with a lid or a large pan, and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes.
  5. Final assembly: Once the cheese is melted and the sandwich is warm, place the top half of the roll on the sandwich. Repeat for remaining sandwiches.
  6. Serve immediately with a small bowl of the warm au jus dip on the side. Encourage dunking and enjoy.

Notes

If roast beef is thick or cold, warm it quickly in the au jus before assembling to keep it tender and juicy. Avoid over-toasting the bread to maintain a crisp exterior without hardness. The au jus can be made ahead and reheated gently. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps; for dairy-free, omit provolone and butter or use plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: French dip sandwich, crispy sandwich, roast beef sandwich, provolone cheese, au jus dip, easy sandwich recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/crispy-french-dip-sandwich-recipe-with-provolone-and-easy-au-jus-dip/