This tasty Crockpot French Dip Sandwich is all about tender beef simmered in a savory broth. Just throw everything in the pot, and let it do the work for you!
I love how the meat becomes super juicy and flavorful. Pair it with crusty bread, and trust me; your taste buds will thank you. Make sure to have some napkins ready! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This is the star of the show, providing a rich flavor and tender texture. If you can’t find chuck roast, brisket or bottom round can work as alternatives.
Beef Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works great too! For a lighter option, use low-sodium broth. You can substitute with vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version, but it will change the overall taste.
Soy Sauce: It adds a deep umami flavor to the dish. If you’re watching sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. Alternatively, tamari or coconut aminos are good gluten-free options.
Cheese: Provolone or Swiss cheese is delicious added to the sandwiches. If you want a dairy-free option, consider using a vegan cheese or leaving the cheese off altogether.
How Do I Get the Beef Tender and Flavorful?
Getting the beef perfectly tender is crucial for a great French Dip. Here’s how to ensure it cooks well:
- Start by searing the beef. While optional, searing creates more flavor by locking in juices and adding a nice crust.
- Layer the onions and garlic underneath before adding the beef. This allows the flavors to infuse as it cooks.
- Cook it low and slow. Using the low setting for 8 hours is ideal for breaking down the fibers in the meat, making it super tender.
- Shred the beef after cooking and mix it back into the juices. This ensures every bite is full of flavor!
Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
- Hoagie rolls or French rolls, for serving
- Provolone or Swiss cheese slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot French Dip Sandwich recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. After that, you’ll need to let it cook for about 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Perfect for setting it up in the morning and enjoying a hearty dinner later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds extra flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it!
2. Prepare the Crockpot:
Next, place the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of your crockpot. They will add wonderful flavor to the meat as it cooks.
3. Add the Beef:
Now, put the seared beef roast right on top of the onions and garlic in the crockpot. This helps to keep it juicy!
4. Mix the Sauces:
In a bowl, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture over the beef in the crockpot, making sure to cover it well.
5. Cook the Beef:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for about 4-5 hours. The beef should be very tender and easily shreddable when it’s done.
6. Shred the Beef:
Once cooked, take the beef out of the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef into the crockpot and stir it around to coat it in those delicious juices.
7. Optional Thickening of the Au Jus:
If you like a thicker dipping sauce, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Slice the hoagie rolls and fill each one with the shredded beef. If you’d like, add slices of cheese on top and let it melt slightly.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your sandwiches with a small bowl of warm au jus for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your flavorful Crockpot French Dip Sandwich!
Enjoy your easy, flavorful Crockpot French Dip Sandwich!
FAQ about Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use brisket or bottom round as alternatives. Just remember that cooking times may slightly vary based on the cut used.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shredded beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using it in sandwiches again.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and cook it in advance. Once done, shred it and store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving in the rolls for fresh sandwiches!
What Can I Serve with These Sandwiches?
These sandwiches are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with sides like fries, potato chips, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
