Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these French dip sandwiches will become a favorite.
-
Only 3 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
-
No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
-
Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
-
Tender and savory. Rich, beefy, and satisfying.
-
Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves French dip sandwiches.
-
Budget-friendly. Chuck roast is an affordable cut.
-
Perfect for busy weeknights or game day.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
-
3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast, excess fat trimmed
-
2 (1-ounce) packets dry onion soup mix
-
3 cups low-sodium beef broth
-
6 soft hoagie rolls or sub buns, for serving (optional but recommended)
Ingredient Notes
Beef chuck roast: Use chuck roast. It is well-marbled and becomes very tender when cooked low and slow.
Dry onion soup mix: Adds savory flavor. Two packets provide a rich, concentrated taste.
Beef broth: Creates the au jus. Low-sodium broth prevents the dish from becoming too salty.
Hoagie rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for piling high with shredded beef.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the beef chuck roast in the bottom of a large slow cooker (5- to 7-quart). If one side of the roast is fattier, place that side facing up so the fat can baste the meat as it cooks.
Step 2: Add the Seasoning
Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the top and sides of the roast, pressing it in lightly so it sticks to the meat.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour the beef broth around the sides of the roast, being careful not to wash off too much of the soup mix from the top.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours. The beef is ready when it is very tender and easily shreds apart with a fork.
Step 5: Shred the Beef
Carefully transfer the roast to a large cutting board, leaving the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. Skim off any large pools of fat from the surface of the au jus. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat.
Step 6: Return to the Sauce
Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it into the hot au jus. Let it sit on WARM for at least 10 to 15 minutes so the meat can soak up even more flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Lightly warm or toast the hoagie rolls. Use tongs to pile the shredded beef high onto each roll, letting any excess liquid drip back into the slow cooker. Spoon some of the rich au jus into small bowls for dipping.
How to Serve French Dip Sandwiches
These savory sandwiches are delicious on their own, but a few accompaniments make them even better.
With Au Jus: Serve with small bowls of warm broth for dipping.
With Provolone Cheese: Add a slice of provolone on top.
With Caramelized Onions: Top with caramelized onions.
With Horseradish Sauce: Add a dollop of horseradish.
With a Side Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Beef Broth: Use beef broth for the au jus.
Make It with Italian Seasoning: Add Italian herbs.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Onions: Add sliced onions to the slow cooker.
Make It with Provolone: Add provolone cheese.
Make It with Peppers: Add sliced bell peppers.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls.
Make It in the Oven: Bake at 325°F for 3 to 4 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Place the fat side up. This allows the fat to baste the meat.
Do not overfill the slow cooker. Leave room for the liquid.
Cook until fork-tender. The meat should shred easily.
Skim the fat from the au jus. This makes it cleaner.
Toast the rolls. This prevents sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Pork or chicken can be used.
Can I use a different broth?
Yes. Chicken or vegetable broth can be used.
Can I use a different seasoning?
Yes. Italian seasoning or garlic powder can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my meat tough?
It did not cook long enough. Cook until fork-tender.
Why is my au jus too salty?
Use low-sodium broth. Reduce the soup mix.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add onions or peppers.
Can I use a different roll?
Yes. Any soft roll works.
The Beauty of Simple Sandwiches
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, savory sandwich. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. These French dip sandwiches are a celebration of all those things.
Keep beef in your freezer. Keep soup mix and broth in your pantry. Keep rolls in your bread basket. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 8 to 10 hours
Yield: 6 servings