This Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich is a crowd-pleaser! Imagine tender beef that’s been slow-cooked to perfection with delicious spices, all nestled in soft, crusty rolls.
Don’t forget that warm, tasty dipping sauce! It’s the best part, right? I always end up drenching my sandwich in it. Who can resist? 😄
This recipe is super simple; just toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook! I love coming home to a yummy meal waiting for me—makes busy days feel a bit special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful. If you can’t find chuck, you can substitute with brisket or round roast, but it might be a bit leaner.
Onions: Slicing fresh onions adds a sweet and rich flavor to the dish, especially when cooked down. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can leave them out, but I recommend trying them for that added taste!
Cheese: Provolone is my favorite choice for a nice melty top. Swiss is a great alternative if you prefer something milder. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheeses.
Broth: Beef broth enhances the taste, but if you’re looking for lower sodium options, go for low-sodium beef broth. You can even use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Achieve Tender Shredded Beef?
The key to juicy, shredded beef is slow cooking it properly. Timing and temperature matter! Here are some tips:
- Ensure you sear the roast in hot oil first. This adds a nice flavor and color.
- Cook low and slow! If possible, stick to the low setting for the best results.
- Check the beef towards the end; it should fall apart easily when you pull at it with forks.
This method allows the flavors to develop and makes for that perfect French Dip sandwich experience!
Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 cup beef broth (plus extra for dipping)
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 4-6 hoagie rolls or French rolls
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time in the morning, then you let your crockpot work its magic for 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. After cooking, there’s another 10 minutes to get your sandwiches ready. And just like that, you’ll have delicious French Dip sandwiches waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Roast:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. While that heats up, season your beef roast generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. When the oil is hot, add the roast and sear it on all sides until it’s beautifully browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds lots of flavor!
2. Setting Up the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, spread out the sliced onions at the bottom. Place the seared roast on top of those onions. Don’t forget to pour the beef broth over the roast, along with Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. This will keep the meat moist and tasty while it cooks.
3. Cooking It Low and Slow:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for about 4-5 hours. You want the beef to be really tender and easy to shred. Trust me, the aroma will have everyone excited for dinner!
4. Shredding and Melting:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the beef from the crockpot and use two forks to shred the meat. It should fall apart effortlessly! Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Split the hoagie rolls and lay them on a baking sheet. Fill each roll with generous portions of the shredded beef, then top them with cheese slices.
5. Baking and Dipping:
Pop the sandwiches in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until the cheese is gooey and the rolls are warm. While they bake, skim off any fat from the top of the cooking liquid in your crockpot, then pour that delicious broth into small bowls for dipping.
6. Serving Time:
Once the sandwiches are ready, serve them warm with a side of the broth. Dip each bite into the savory juice for the ultimate French Dip experience! Enjoy your meal with family or friends, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just remember that leaner cuts may be less juicy, so adjust cooking time as needed for tenderness.
What if I Don’t Have a Crockpot?
No worries! You can make this recipe in a Dutch oven. Simply follow the same steps for searing the meat and combining ingredients, then cover and simmer on low heat on the stovetop for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shredded beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The dipping broth can also be stored and reheated separately!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can sear the beef and prepare all ingredients the night before, then place everything in the crockpot in the morning. Just set it to cook while you’re busy with your day, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you!
