Perfect for those busy days when you crave something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This Crock Pot French Dip recipe is a game-changer, offering tender, flavorful beef sandwiches with a rich au jus that’s perfect for dipping. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the work, breaking down the beef into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
- Homemade au jus adds a depth of flavor that store-bought versions can’t match.
- Customizable to your taste, whether you prefer your sandwiches with cheese or extra herbs.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese
Equipment Needed
- Crock Pot or slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Tongs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Place the beef chuck roast in the Crock Pot. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. Pour this mixture over the beef, ensuring it’s well-coated. Tip: For extra flavor, sear the beef on all sides before adding it to the Crock Pot.
Step 2: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The key here is patience; the longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes.
Step 3: Shred the Beef
Once cooked, remove the beef from the Crock Pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the Crock Pot and mix it with the juices. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 4: Prepare the Sandwiches
Slice the hoagie rolls in half and toast them lightly. Pile the shredded beef onto each roll and top with two slices of provolone cheese. Tip: For a melty cheese experience, broil the sandwiches for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Step 5: Serve with Au Jus
Strain the cooking liquid to serve as au jus on the side for dipping. Serve the sandwiches hot with a bowl of au jus for the ultimate French dip experience.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer au jus, you can add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to the cooking liquid. If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 4-5 hours can work, but low and slow is best for tender beef. Don’t skip toasting the rolls; it adds a nice crunch and prevents them from getting soggy. Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss or mozzarella for a twist on the classic.
Recipe Variations
- Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the Crock Pot for a veggie-packed version.
- Use chicken broth instead of beef broth for a lighter au jus.
- Swap the provolone for pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Try serving the beef over mashed potatoes instead of sandwiches for a hearty meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative and ensure your hoagie rolls are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy swap.
How can I store leftovers?
Store the shredded beef and au jus separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water to the au jus if it’s too thick.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, both the shredded beef and au jus freeze well. Freeze in separate containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Summary
This Crock Pot French Dip recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor, offering tender beef sandwiches with a rich, homemade au jus. It’s customizable, easy to make, and sure to become a family favorite.