This Easy Crockpot French Dip features tender, juicy beef that soaks up a tasty broth. It’s perfect for a cozy meal without any fuss!
Who doesn’t love a sandwich you can just toss into a slow cooker? I often make a double batch, so I have leftovers to enjoy the next day. Yum!
I love how simple it is to prepare—just throw everything in the pot, let it cook, and you’ve got a warm, flavorful dinner. Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it’s flavorful and becomes tender as it cooks. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use sirloin or flank steak, though they won’t be as tender.
Onion: A large onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re avoiding onions, try using shallots or skipping them altogether. Onion powder can also work in a pinch.
Beef Broth: This forms the base of your dipping sauce. You can substitute it with vegetable broth for a lighter taste or even use chicken broth, though both may alter the flavor slightly.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a great umami kick. For a gluten-free option, make sure to use a gluten-free version or omit it completely if needed.
How Do I Ensure the Beef is Perfectly Tender?
The key to tender beef is the long cooking time at low heat. Always check that the beef is fully submerged in liquid to avoid drying out. Here’s how to do it:
- Sear your beef first! This builds flavor and seals in moisture.
- Cook on low for 8 hours; this gentle heat allows the collagen in the beef to break down, making it tender.
- After cooking, let the beef sit for a few minutes before shredding, which helps redistribute the juices.
When making your sandwiches, don’t skip the au jus! It adds extra flavor and is essential for the classic french dip experience.
Easy Crockpot French Dip Recipe for Tender Beef
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth (plus extra for dipping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 to 8 hoagie or French rolls
- Provolone cheese slices (optional)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and then you let it cook in the crockpot for 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. After it’s cooked, a quick assembly of the sandwiches takes about 10 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at around 8 hours and 25 minutes, but most of that time is just letting the crockpot do its thing!
Instructions
1. Sear the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your beef roast with salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, sear the beef on all sides until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps to enhance the flavor of the beef. After searing, transfer the roast to your crockpot.
2. Add Aromatics
In the same skillet where you seared the beef, add the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic. Saute them until they are softened, about 3-4 minutes. This will infuse your dish with delicious flavor. Once done, transfer the onions and garlic to the crockpot with the beef.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour 1 cup of beef broth into the crockpot over the beef and aromatics. Then, add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and stir gently to combine all the ingredients. This broth will develop into a savory dipping sauce as the beef cooks.
4. Cook
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and shreddable. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will be!
5. Shred the Beef
Once the cooking time is up, remove the beef from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the crockpot to soak up those flavorful juices.
6. Prepare the Sandwiches
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, slice your hoagie rolls in half and place a generous amount of shredded beef on each roll. If you’d like, add a slice of provolone cheese on top for extra creaminess and flavor.
7. Melt the Cheese
Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is slightly toasted. The melting cheese will add a delightful gooeyness!
8. Make Au Jus
Don’t forget the dipping sauce! Ladle some of the flavorful broth from the crockpot into small serving bowls or ramekins—it’s perfect for dipping your sandwiches.
9. Serve
Enjoy your delicious French dip sandwiches hot, with the au jus dipping sauce on the side. This dish is sure to be a hit at your table!
This easy crockpot French dip recipe guarantees tender, flavorful beef withvery little effort. The broth doubles as a delicious dipping sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable!
FAQ about Easy Crockpot French Dip Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef chuck roast! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, or use the defrost function on your microwave. Do not cook frozen meat directly in the crockpot, as it won’t reach a safe temperature quickly enough.
How Do I Store Leftover French Dip?
Store any leftover shredded beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop, adding a little broth if needed to moisten it.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Worcestershire Sauce?
Absolutely! If you prefer to omit Worcestershire sauce or need a gluten-free option, you can use soy sauce or a homemade blend with soy sauce, vinegar, and a bit of sugar. Alternatively, just skip it; the recipe will still turn out delicious!
What Can I Serve with French Dip Sandwiches?
French dip sandwiches are typically served with the au jus for dipping, but you can also pair them with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Roasted vegetables are a great low-carb option, too!
