When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot like a hearty sandwich. The Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich stands out not only for its rich and savory flavors but also for the ease with which it can be made. Enveloped in a warm, toasted roll, tender beef bathed in a luscious au jus sauce and topped with melty provolone cheese makes for a winning combination. This recipe speaks to both the busy home cook and the culinary enthusiast, offering a straightforward yet rewarding experience that combines simplicity with taste!
There’s something magical about a slow-cooked dish; the anticipation builds as the aromas fill your kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Imagine coming home after a long day to find a meal ready to satisfy your cravings. The beef chuck roast transforms into a succulent centerpiece of the sandwich, deeply infused with the flavors of red wine, garlic, and herbs. Plus, minimal prep time means you can set it in your slow cooker and forget about it until dinner.
This Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even just treating yourself after a long day. Best of all, it’s adaptable for various tastes and dietary preferences. So grab your ingredients and a good appetite – it’s time to create a sandwich that will be a hit with everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich
- Flavorsome: The combination of beef, garlic, and provolone is rich and satisfying.
- Effortless Preparation: Simply season and sear the beef, then let the slow cooker do the work.
- Versatile: Easily modify ingredients for different dietary needs or preferences.
- Instant Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
- Slow-Cooked Goodness: The slow cooker enhances flavors and tenderness, ensuring every bite is juicy.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making your delicious Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich, ensure that your kitchen is ready for a cooking adventure. First and foremost, gather your ingredients – you’ll need a well-marbled chuck roast, spices, and fresh produce like onions and garlic. Having everything laid out will save time and make the cooking process smoother.
Next, make sure you have the necessary tools at hand: a sturdy slow cooker, a large cast iron skillet for searing, a cutting board for prepping your ingredients, and a good knife. The slow cooker is your best friend here, transforming tough meat into tender perfection over hours of low heat. Don’t forget a baking sheet for broiling the rolls, as this step adds not only flavor but also texture. Preheat your oven broiler so it’s ready when you assemble your sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 2.5-pound chuck roast – A well-marbled cut that becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- Kosher salt – 2 teaspoons, to taste.
- Freshly ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon, to taste.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – For searing the beef.
- 1 large onion – Sliced thinly.
- 1 cup red wine – Adds depth and richness to the jus.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth – To keep the sandwich moist and flavorful.
- 2 garlic cloves – Smashed for added aroma.
- 1 bay leaf – For subtle earthy flavors.
- 6 sandwich rolls – Any sturdy roll works, but French or hoagie rolls are ideal.
- 3 tablespoons butter – Melted for brushing.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Mixed with butter for added flavor.
- Fresh parsley – Chopped for garnish.
- 6 slices provolone cheese – For a melty, savory topping.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Beef
Begin by patting your chuck roast dry using paper towels. This is crucial as it helps achieve a beautiful sear. Generously season all sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If your roast is larger, adjust the salt accordingly. Seasoning early allows the flavors to penetrate as it cooks.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, add your vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the beef into the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. This step is essential as it locks in flavor and enhances the overall dish.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Deglaze with Wine
After removing the beef, toss in your sliced onions. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften. Then, pour in the red wine; this is where you can scrape any flavorful brown bits off the bottom of the skillet. Simmer the wine until it reduces by half, roughly 3-5 minutes, for a rich flavor layer.
Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer the seared roast into the slow cooker, followed by the onion and wine mixture. Then, pour in the low-sodium beef broth, add the smashed garlic cloves, and toss in the bay leaf. This combination will develop a sumptuous au jus as everything cooks!
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 6 hours or on low for 8 hours. You’re looking for that iconic fork-tender texture; the beef should shred effortlessly when done. This is when the magic truly happens, as all the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter Rolls
While the beef is cooking, you can prepare the rolls. Melt the butter and mix in garlic powder for extra flavor. Preheat your oven’s broiler, then split your rolls open and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each roll and broil until they start to brown, which typically takes just a few minutes.
Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches
When the beef is done, shred it using two forks, ensuring every piece is coated in that delicious cooking liquid. Divide the shredded beef among the toasted rolls, then top each with a slice of provolone cheese. Place the sandwiches back under the broiler; the goal is to melt that cheese beautifully.
Step 8: Serve with Au Jus
For presentation and taste, strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a bowl or gravy boat for dipping. Serve each sandwich warm, with a drizzle of fresh parsley on top for color and flavor. Your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are now ready to impress!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chuck roast with brisket or even a plant-based protein like jackfruit for a meatless option.
- Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spices: Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile even further.
Cooking Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Freshly cracked black pepper and kosher salt create a noticeable difference.
- Broil the rolls to perfection; a bit of garlic butter adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Ensure you shred the beef well to soak up the au jus and keep every bite juicy.
- If time allows, consider marinating your roast overnight with seasonings for even more depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato wedges for a satisfying meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced dish, providing a beautiful contrast to the rich sandwich.
Tips
- Remember to taste as you go. Adjust seasoning to suit your palate and the ingredients used.
- If you’re preparing a large batch, keep leftovers stored in the refrigerator for quick meals throughout the week.
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the cooking liquid.
- Save the au jus for future use; it freezes well and can enhance other dishes.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this French dip sandwich?
Yes, other cuts like brisket or round roast work great as alternatives.
What can I substitute if I prefer not to use wine?
You can replace red wine with an equal amount of beef broth for a delicious non-alcoholic option.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover beef and au jus in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Can I freeze the sandwiches?
It’s best to freeze the cooked beef and au jus separately. The rolls can be toasted fresh when ready to serve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich recipe is a fantastic go-to for anyone seeking a comforting meal without the fuss. Not only does it provide rich, layered flavors in every bite, but it’s also designed for convenience, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Now that you know how to prepare this sandwich, it’s time to get creative! Feel free to tweak ingredients or serve it alongside your favorite sides. We encourage you to try this recipe, share it with friends and family, and let your culinary explorations lead to succulent sandwiches that impress your taste buds. Don’t forget to leave a comment sharing your experience or any personal twists you put on this classic dish!
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Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich featuring savory beef and rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 2.5-pound chuck roast – A well-marbled cut that becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- Kosher salt – 2 teaspoons, to taste.
- Freshly ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon, to taste.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – For searing the beef.
- 1 large onion – Sliced thinly.
- 1 cup red wine – Adds depth and richness to the jus.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth – To keep the sandwich moist and flavorful.
- 2 garlic cloves – Smashed for added aroma.
- 1 bay leaf – For subtle earthy flavors.
- 6 sandwich rolls – Any sturdy roll works, but French or hoagie rolls are ideal.
- 3 tablespoons butter – Melted for brushing.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Mixed with butter for added flavor.
- Fresh parsley – Chopped for garnish.
- 6 slices provolone cheese – For a melty, savory topping.
Instructions
- Begin by patting your chuck roast dry using paper towels. This is crucial as it helps achieve a beautiful sear. Generously season all sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If your roast is larger, adjust the salt accordingly. Seasoning early allows the flavors to penetrate as it cooks.
- In a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, add your vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the beef into the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. This step is essential as it locks in flavor and enhances the overall dish.
- After removing the beef, toss in your sliced onions. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften. Then, pour in the red wine; this is where you can scrape any flavorful brown bits off the bottom of the skillet. Simmer the wine until it reduces by half, roughly 3-5 minutes, for a rich flavor layer.
- Carefully transfer the seared roast into the slow cooker, followed by the onion and wine mixture. Then, pour in the low-sodium beef broth, add the smashed garlic cloves, and toss in the bay leaf. This combination will develop a sumptuous au jus as everything cooks!
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 6 hours or on low for 8 hours. You’re looking for that iconic fork-tender texture; the beef should shred effortlessly when done. This is when the magic truly happens, as all the flavors meld together.
- While the beef is cooking, you can prepare the rolls. Melt the butter and mix in garlic powder for extra flavor. Preheat your oven’s broiler, then split your rolls open and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each roll and broil until they start to brown, which typically takes just a few minutes.
- When the beef is done, shred it using two forks, ensuring every piece is coated in that delicious cooking liquid. Divide the shredded beef among the toasted rolls, then top each with a slice of provolone cheese. Place the sandwiches back under the broiler; the goal is to melt that cheese beautifully.
- For presentation and taste, strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a bowl or gravy boat for dipping. Serve each sandwich warm, with a drizzle of fresh parsley on top for color and flavor. Your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are now ready to impress!
Notes
Store any leftover beef and au jus in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 40 g