Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

INTRODUCTION

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is simple and uses a slow cooker, which means you can set it and forget it. The tender beef, savory broth, and crusty bread make it a beloved dish for many. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving comfort food, these sandwiches will hit the spot.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe for many reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to make. With just a few steps and a slow cooker, you can have a fantastic meal with minimal effort. The flavors of the beef, broth, and spices blend together beautifully. The result is juicy, savory meat that you can pile high on a bun. Plus, dipping the sandwich into the warm broth elevates the experience to a whole new level of yumminess.

Another reason to love this recipe is versatility. You can serve it for lunch, dinner, or even as a game-day snack. It suits many occasions and is always a crowd-pleaser. You can also customize it to your taste by adding different toppings or sides.

Finally, it’s a great option for meal prep. If you want to make something in advance, this dish holds well in the fridge and can even be frozen for later. Enjoying a warm French dip sandwich after a long day is a comfort that few meals can provide.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Making Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches is straightforward. Follow these simple steps, and you will have a meal that everyone enjoys.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Slow cooker
• Large pot
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Fine mesh sieve
• Baking sheet

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1 1/2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1/2 tsp honey
• 3 lbs chuck roast
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 crusty hoagie buns or 2 crusty baguettes cut into thirds
• 3 Tbsp butter
• 6 deli slices provolone or Swiss cheese, halved

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and honey; set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Dab both sides of the roast with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the roast until browned on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the roast to a slow cooker.
5. In the same pot, sauté the onions for 3 minutes, then add the garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Remove from heat, pour the beef broth mixture into the pot, scraping the browned bits from the bottom, and then pour it over the roast in the slow cooker.
7. Submerge the rosemary and thyme into the broth.
8. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
9. Remove the roast from the slow cooker, shred it on a cutting board, and season the beef and broth to taste.
10. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl and discard the solids.
11. Toss the shredded roast with 1/3 cup of the strained broth.
12. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
13. Cut the hoagie buns in half, butter them, and toast in the oven for about 7-8 minutes.
14. Add cheese to one side of each bun and toast for an additional 2 minutes until melted.
15. Layer shredded beef over the rolls and serve warm with the remaining broth for dipping.

HOW TO SERVE Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Serve Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches warm, right out of the oven. Place the shredded beef on the toasted hoagie buns, then drizzle some of the warm broth over the meat. Pair with a small bowl of the remaining broth for dipping. This add-on is essential for that classic French dip experience. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, or serve with some crispy fries or a side salad for a complete meal.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

If you have leftovers, you can store the beef in the refrigerator for up to three days. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. When reheating, place your shredded beef in a pan with a bit of broth to warm it up gently.

For freezing, the cooked beef will stay good for about three months. Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you are ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat it before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

To round out your meal, consider serving French Dip Sandwiches with a variety of sides. Fresh cut fries or sweet potato fries are popular choices. A side salad with a tangy dressing can also add a refreshing element to the meal. For something more substantial, coleslaw can complement the richness of the beef. If you prefer something lighter, steamed vegetables make a healthy side option.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to put a twist on the classic French Dip Sandwich.

1. Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for some heat.
2. Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to spread on the buns before toasting.
3. Cheesy Variation: Use different cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique taste experience.
4. Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with mushrooms or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth for a delicious plant-based sandwich.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
   Yes! You can use other cuts, such as brisket or round roast, but cooking times may vary slightly.

2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can use a Dutch oven on the stove. Just follow the same steps and simmer for about 3-4 hours on low heat.

3. What can I use instead of beef broth?
   You can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth, but the flavor will be slightly different.

4. How do I store the broth?
   You can store the broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It also freezes well for later use.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

If you want to save time, you can prepare some elements ahead of time. You can mix the broth ingredients and keep them in the fridge overnight. You can also sear the roast a day in advance and let it marinate in the fridge with the seasonings before cooking. This way, when you’re ready to cook, everything is ready to go! Enjoy the delicious flavors of this meal, and feel free to make it a family favorite!

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