This Easy Crockpot French Dip is a treat! Imagine tender beef simmered slowly until it’s melt-in-your-mouth good, served with a tasty au jus for dipping. Yum!
I love how hands-off this recipe is—just pop everything in the crockpot and relax. Plus, it’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal with little effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking as it becomes very tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sirloin or brisket instead. Just note that the texture may differ!
Onion: A large onion adds sweetness and depth. You can use yellow, white, or even sweet onions. If onions aren’t your thing, consider using sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor.
Beef Broth: For richer flavor, homemade beef broth is fantastic! If using canned or boxed broth, go for low-sodium to control the saltiness. Vegetable broth can work too, especially if you’re keeping it lighter.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce gives a savory kick! If you’re out, soy sauce can be a good replacement, but just adjust the salt, as soy sauce is saltier.
Rolls: Hoagie rolls are classic, but any crusty bread such as French baguette or even burger buns can be used. You can also make it gluten-free by using gluten-free rolls!
How Do I Get the Most Flavor from My Beef?
Searing the beef is a key step for flavor. It locks in juices and caramelizes the surface, creating a deeper taste. Here’s how to do it well:
- Preheat your skillet until it’s hot.
- Pat the roast with paper towels to remove moisture; this helps it brown better.
- Sear on each side for about 3-4 minutes until browned. If it sticks, it’s not ready to flip!
Once seared, place it in your crockpot for tender results. Without this step, you’ll lose some tasty crust, but don’t worry if you’re in a hurry — the crockpot still works wonders!
Easy Crockpot French Dip Recipe with Delicious Au Jus
Ingredients:
- Beef:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
- Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Liquids:
- 1 cup beef broth (plus additional for dipping sauce)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Other:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- 4 to 6 hoagie rolls or French rolls
- Provolone or Swiss cheese slices (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Time Needed:
This hearty meal requires about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus cooking time of 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the crockpot. After that, give yourself a few extra minutes to assemble the sandwiches. Overall, a delicious meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear it in the skillet until browned on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). This extra step adds so much flavor, though you can skip it if you’re in a hurry.
2. Prepare the Crockpot:
Place the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of your crockpot. This will infuse wonderful flavors into the beef as it cooks.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Place the seared roast on top of the onions and garlic. Pour in the beef broth, water, and Worcestershire sauce. Then sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary evenly over the top.
4. Cook the Beef:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is very tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the Beef:
Once cooked, remove the roast from the crockpot and transfer it to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred or slice the beef into pieces.
6. Prepare the Au Jus:
Strain the cooking liquid from the crockpot into a saucepan to make the au jus. Warm it over medium heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If it’s too strong, add more beef broth or water to taste.
7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Pile the tender shredded beef onto hoagie rolls. If you like, add slices of provolone or Swiss cheese on top. Place the assembled sandwiches under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
Serve the sandwiches with warm au jus for dipping. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious Easy Crockpot French Dip sandwiches!
FAQs about Easy Crockpot French Dip Recipe
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast, but chuck roast is preferred for its tenderness and flavor when slow-cooked. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; leaner cuts may cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shredded beef and au jus in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist if necessary.
Can I Freeze the Shredded Beef?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shredded beef and au jus in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring it stays delicious.
What Can I Serve with French Dip Sandwiches?
French dip sandwiches pair wonderfully with a side of crispy fries, potato chips, or a light salad. You could also serve with pickles or coleslaw for added crunch!
