Description
These Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches feature tender, slow-cooked beef chuck roast infused with rich flavors and served on toasted hoagie rolls with melted provolone cheese. Accompanied by a savory homemade au jus for dipping, this easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner, game-day meal, or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4–6 hoagie rolls
- 6 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef chuck roast thoroughly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme to ensure full flavor. For extra depth, sear the beef in a hot skillet until browned on all sides, creating a beautiful crust before placing it in the slow cooker.
- Assemble Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the thinly sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker to form a flavorful base and prevent sticking. Lay the seasoned beef roast on top of the onions, then pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce to create a rich dipping broth.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender enough to shred easily with a fork. This low-and-slow method melds flavors beautifully and results in juicy beef.
- Shred the Beef: Remove the cooked beef from the slow cooker and place on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef back to the slow cooker to soak up more flavorful juices.
- Toast the Hoagie Rolls: Toast the hoagie rolls either under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or in a dry skillet until golden brown for the best texture to hold the beef and au jus.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Using tongs, pile the shredded beef onto each toasted hoagie roll, then top with a slice of provolone cheese. Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler briefly (about 1-2 minutes) until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Serve with Au Jus: Strain the cooking liquid to remove onions and pour the au jus into small bowls for dipping. Serve the sandwiches hot alongside the flavorful au jus for a classic French dip experience.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker dipping sauce, simmer the strained au jus on the stove for a few minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavors.
- Leftover shredded beef can be repurposed for tacos, beef bowls, or added to salads for extra protein.
- Searing the beef before slow cooking adds extra flavor but is optional if you are short on time.
- Choose a sturdy hoagie roll that holds up well to juicy beef and dipping sauce.
- For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the shredded beef before assembling.
- Swiss or mozzarella cheeses are good alternatives to provolone.
- This recipe stores well and is excellent for meal prepping; reheat the beef separately and toast fresh rolls just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: French dip sandwich, slow cooker beef sandwich, au jus, crock pot recipe, easy beef sandwich, comfort food, game day recipe
