The Best Homemade French Dip Sandwich Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade French dip sandwich is packed with flavor and easy to make, perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch. You’ll love how the tender meat and rich au jus come together for a delicious bite every time.
- Simple ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples, so you won’t need a special trip to the store.
- Quick prep: Ready in under an hour, making it great for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-pleaser: A hit with family and friends, especially when served with extra au jus for dipping.
Recipe
A French Dip Sandwich is a classic comfort food featuring tender roast beef piled on a crusty baguette, served with a rich au jus for dipping. This homemade version delivers all the savory flavors you love, with juicy meat and a deeply flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-pound) beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 French baguette rolls, split
- 8 slices provolone cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Add onions to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits. Add thyme and rosemary.
- Return the roast to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven. Cook for 3–3½ hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
- Remove the roast and let rest for 10 minutes before thinly slicing. Strain the broth and skim off excess fat.
- Preheat the broiler. Place sliced beef on baguette rolls, top with provolone (if using), and broil until cheese melts.
- Serve sandwiches with warm au jus for dipping.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, toast the baguette rolls before assembling.
- Leftover au jus can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Dutch oven
- Tongs
- Strainer
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 3½ hours
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4 sandwiches
Nutrition
This homemade French Dip Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 90 mg |
| Sodium | 1200 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my French dip sandwich with crispy side dishes, like golden fries or onion rings, to add a satisfying crunch. A flavorful dipping sauce, whether it’s extra au jus or a creamy horseradish blend, takes each bite to the next level. Trust me, these combos make the meal feel extra special without much extra work.
Crispy Side Dishes
Crispy sides are the perfect match for a rich, juicy French dip sandwich, adding texture and balance to every bite. I love pairing mine with golden roasted potatoes—tossed in olive oil, salt, and rosemary—for a crunchy contrast. Seasonal vegetables, like zucchini or carrots, roasted until caramelized, bring a sweet, earthy flavor that complements the sandwich’s savory depth. A simple kale chips or crispy onion rings add a fun, crunchy twist. These sides aren’t just fillers; they elevate the meal, making each bite more satisfying. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll never go back to plain chips again!
Flavorful Dipping Sauces
While the French dip sandwich is already a flavor-packed masterpiece, it’s the dipping sauces that take it to the next level. I love experimenting with sauce variations to make each bite unique. A classic au jus is always a winner, but I’ll sometimes mix in horseradish or garlic for a kick. For creamier options, I blend mayo with mustard or add a touch of herbs. Dipping techniques matter too—I like to dip just the edge for a hint of flavor or fully soak the sandwich for a juicy explosion. It’s all about making it your own!
