Crockpot French Dip Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients:
- 5 pounds top or bottom round beef roast (boneless chuck roast)
- 2 ounces au jus mix (2 packages)
- 1.4 ounces Italian dressing mix (2 packages)
- 32 ounces beef broth (1 Tetra Pak)
- 8 hoagie buns
- 8 slices Provolone cheese
Recommended Equipment:
- Crockpot
Directions:
- Prep the Crockpot: Spray the crockpot with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Beef Roast: Place the beef roast into the crockpot, ensuring it sits evenly.
- Season with Flavor: Sprinkle the au jus mix and Italian dressing mix evenly over the beef roast, covering it with irresistible flavor.
- Add the Beef Broth: Pour the beef broth over the seasoned roast, allowing it to seep into every nook and cranny.
- Slow-Cook to Perfection: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and infused with mouthwatering goodness.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: Once cooked, carefully remove the roast from the crockpot and strain the broth into a bowl. This flavorful broth will serve as the perfect dipping sauce for your sandwiches.
- Slice and Assemble: Using a sharp knife, slice the roast beef into thin, succulent slices. Layer the slices onto hoagie buns and top each sandwich with a slice of Provolone cheese for that perfect melty finish.
- Warm and Serve: Wrap the assembled sandwiches and place them in the oven at 400°F for 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Unwrap and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the oven, unwrap them, and get ready to indulge in pure culinary delight. Serve alongside the reserved broth for dipping, and savor each savory bite!
Secrets and Tips to Achieve the Perfect Crockpot French Dip Sandwich
- Use High-Quality Beef: Choose a well-marbled beef roast for a tender and flavorful result.
- Sear the Beef First: For extra depth of flavor, sear the beef roast on all sides in a hot skillet before placing it in the crockpot.
- Layer Flavors: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme and rosemary to the crockpot for an herbaceous note.
- Garlic Infusion: Add a couple of smashed garlic cloves to the crockpot for a subtle garlic flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on Broth: Use a high-quality beef broth or even homemade broth for the best flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the au jus before serving and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Keep It Moist: If the beef seems dry, add a bit more beef broth during cooking.
- Use Sturdy Buns: Choose hoagie buns that can hold up to the juicy beef and dipping sauce.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the hoagie buns before assembling the sandwiches to prevent sogginess.
- Cheese Choices: Provolone is classic, but Swiss cheese also works well for a different flavor profile.
- Melting Cheese: For perfectly melted cheese, broil the sandwiches in the oven for the last few minutes.
- Onion Addition: Sauté some onions and add them to the sandwiches for extra flavor and texture.
- Bell Peppers: Add sautéed bell peppers for a touch of sweetness and color.
- Control Cooking Time: If you have a smaller roast, reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
- Low and Slow: Always cook on low heat for the most tender beef.
- Shred or Slice: You can either thinly slice the beef or shred it, depending on your texture preference.
- Skim Fat: Skim off any excess fat from the broth before serving.
- Serving Size: For smaller portions, consider using slider buns.
- Storage: Leftover beef can be stored in the broth to keep it moist for reheating.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve the dipping broth hot to enhance the sandwich experience.
Most Popular Questions and Their Answers
- Can I use a different cut of beef?
- Yes, you can use chuck roast, brisket, or rump roast for this recipe.
- Can I cook this on high to reduce time?
- It’s best to cook on low for tenderness, but you can cook on high for 4-5 hours if necessary.
- What if I don’t have au jus mix?
- You can substitute with beef bouillon or beef base, adjusting the seasoning accordingly.
- Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
- Yes, use the pressure cook setting on high for about 60-70 minutes.
- How do I make it less salty?
- Use low-sodium beef broth and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Can I add vegetables?
- Yes, carrots, onions, and celery can be added to the crockpot for additional flavor.
- Can I use pre-sliced deli beef?
- For best results, use a roast. Pre-sliced deli beef may not hold up as well during cooking.
- Is there a gluten-free option?
- Ensure your au jus and Italian dressing mixes are gluten-free, and use gluten-free buns.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, freeze the beef in its broth to keep it moist.
- What type of cheese works best?
- Provolone and Swiss are excellent choices, but mozzarella also works well.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- Reheat beef in its broth on the stove or in the microwave until warm.
- Can I use chicken instead of beef?
- Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs as a variation.
- What side dishes go well with this?
- Serve with coleslaw, potato salad, or a green salad.
- How many sandwiches does this recipe make?
- This recipe makes about 8 sandwiches, depending on the size of your hoagie buns.
- Can I make this without a crockpot?
- Yes, you can bake in a covered Dutch oven at 300°F for 3-4 hours until tender.
- Can I add beer to the broth?
- Yes, adding a dark beer can enhance the flavor of the broth.
- What type of bun is best?
- Sturdy hoagie or French rolls work best to hold the juicy beef.
- Can I add horseradish sauce?
- Yes, horseradish sauce pairs well with French dip sandwiches.
- How can I make the dipping sauce thicker?
- Reduce the broth on the stove or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.
- Can I cook this overnight?
- Yes, you can set the crockpot on low before bed and have it ready in the morning.
Enjoy making and savoring your perfect Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches! 🥪