Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich Recipe

For those who enjoy a hearty sandwich, this slow cooker French dip recipe is a must-try. Its simplicity is its charm - a tender roast slow cooked in savory spices until it easily falls apart, layered with caramelized onions and bell peppers on a crusty baguette, topped with gooey melted provolone cheese, and served alongside a hot, delectable dipping sauce made from the cooking broth.

Photos of Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe are easily found at a local supermarket. However, you might want to pay extra attention while looking for the 'beef round roast'. It might also be labeled as 'round eye' or 'round steak'. Another ingredient to look out for is 'low-sodium beef broth'. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level in your dish. You can always add more, but you can't take it out.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich

Beef round roast: The star of this dish. It's a lean cut of meat and becomes very tender when cooked slowly.

Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor to the meat.

Rosemary and Thyme: These fresh herbs infuse the beef with a delicious earthy flavor.

Beef broth: This forms the base for your dipping sauce.

Worcestershire sauce: It adds a tangy, savory depth to the broth.

Onion: Used in both, slow cooking the beef and caramelizing for sandwich topping.

Red and Green Bell Peppers: Adds sweetness, and a bit of crunch to the sandwich.

Provolone: A mildly flavored cheese that melts beautifully.

Baguettes: Crusty on the outside and soft on the inside - perfect for holding all the sandwich fillings.

One reader, Kippie Pino says:

This slow cooker French dip sandwich recipe is a game-changer! The beef is incredibly tender and flavorful, and the caramelized onions and peppers add a delicious twist. The aroma while it cooks is mouthwatering, and the final result is a mouthwatering, satisfying meal. I highly recommend trying it out!

Kippie Pino

Techniques Required for Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

How to prepare the beef: Rub the spice mixture onto all sides of the roast and place it in the slow cooker with broth and onions. Cook on low for 9 to 12 hours until the meat flakes apart easily.

How to caramelize onions: Cook the onions in a skillet with oil and salt until golden and sweet, stirring often for about 30 to 35 minutes.

How to cook the peppers: In a skillet, cook the peppers until soft, stirring often for 8 to 10 minutes.

How to assemble the sandwich: Split the bread open, top with beef, onions, peppers, and cheese, then broil until the cheese melts. Serve with the strained broth for dipping.

How To Make Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich

Satisfy your craving with this delicious slow cooker sandwich filled with caramelized onions and melted cheese. Made more exciting with a sauce.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 9 hours

Total: 9 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For the Beef:

4lbsbeef round roast,trimmed
1tbspgarlic,minced
1tbspfresh rosemary,or 1 teaspoon dry
1tbspfresh thyme,or 1 teaspoon dry
1tspkosher salt
½tspground black pepper
14½ozSwanson’s low-sodium beef broth,(2 to 3 cans)
1tspWorcestershire sauce
10whole peppercorns
1bay leaf
½large onion,cut into chunks

For the Caramelized Onions:

½tbspextra-virgin olive oil
3large onions,thinly sliced
½tspkosher salt

For the Peppers:

1large red bell pepper,cored, seeded, and sliced into strips
1large green bell pepper,cored, seeded, and sliced into strips

For the Sandwich:

Sargento Reduced Fat Provolone,or Mozzarella Slices
whole wheat baguettes,or rolls, cut into 2 oz pieces

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture onto all sides of the roast then place in the slow cooker. Pour the broth into the side of the roast then top with onions.
Add the Worcestershire sauce, peppercorns, and bay leaf to the broth.
Cover and cook on low until the meat flakes apart easily with a fork for about 9 to 12 hours depending on the size of your roast.
An hour before the meat is done, prepare the onions and peppers.
In a large nonstick skillet heat the oil over medium heat.
Add the onions and salt and cook until golden, stirring often, reducing heat as needed if the onions are burning or browning too quickly for about 30 to 35 minutes.
Add 1 tablespoon to the pan if it becomes too dry. The onions should turn golden and the flavor should be sweet.
Transfer to a serving bowl then add the peppers to the skillet and cook stirring often until soft for 8 to 10 minutes.
Remove the meat from the slow cooker to a cutting board and shred with a fork or slice with a knife.
Strain the broth through a fine sieve then place in a gravy separator to remove any fat. Pour 1/4 cup broth into each small ramekin.
Preheat the oven to broil. Split the bread open and top with 2 ounces of beef.
Top with onions, peppers, and cheese then broil until the cheese melts. Place on a plate with broth for dipping.

Nutrition

Calories: 193.83kcal
Fat: 8.74g
Saturated Fat: 3.34g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.86g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.38g
Carbohydrates: 4.41g
Fiber: 0.95g
Sugar: 2.00g
Protein: 23.12g
Cholesterol: 69.55mg
Sodium: 264.56mg
Calcium: 30.65mg
Potassium: 472.88mg
Iron: 2.27mg
Vitamin A: 16.58µg
Vitamin C: 21.56mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

When caramelizing the onions, it's important to keep the heat at a medium to low setting. High heat can cause the onions to burn before they have a chance to properly caramelize. The process of caramelization is slow and gradual, as the natural sugars in the onions break down and create a deep, sweet flavor. Patience is key here. If the onions start to stick to the pan or look a bit dry, add a splash of water, broth, or wine to deglaze the pan and keep the onions moist. This will also add a layer of flavor to your caramelized onions.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut ingredients: Utilize pre-cut vegetables and pre-sliced meat to cut down on prep time.

Slow cooker magic: Let the slow cooker do the work for you while you attend to other tasks.

Multi-task: While the meat is cooking, use that time to prepare the onions, peppers, and other sandwich components.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife can make prep work quicker and more efficient.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to save time and avoid unnecessary stress.

Clean as you go: Wash dishes and utensils as you cook to minimize the cleanup time after the meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich Recipe

beef round roast - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder has a similar texture and can be slow-cooked to tender perfection, providing a delicious alternative to beef.
fresh rosemary - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary can be used in place of fresh, but use a smaller amount as the flavor is more concentrated.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for fresh thyme, but use a smaller amount as the flavor is more concentrated.
swanson's low-sodium beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth, providing a lighter flavor while still adding depth to the dish.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar umami flavor to the dish, providing a suitable alternative to Worcestershire sauce.
whole peppercorns - Substitute with ground black pepper: Ground black pepper can be used in place of whole peppercorns, providing the same peppery flavor but without the need for straining.
large onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a similar richness and flavor to the dish.
large red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
large green bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell peppers can be used as a substitute for green bell peppers, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and colorful addition to the dish.
reduced fat provolone - Substitute with mozzarella: Mozzarella can be used as a substitute for provolone, providing a mild and creamy flavor to the sandwich.
whole wheat baguettes - Substitute with ciabatta bread: Ciabatta bread can be used as a substitute for whole wheat baguettes, providing a chewy texture and delicious flavor to the sandwich.

Presenting Your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker French dip sandwich, focus on creating an elegant and refined plating. Arrange the sandwich components in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating artistic drizzling of the au jus on the plate. This not only adds a touch of sophistication but also elevates the overall presentation.
Utilize garnishes strategically: Incorporate fresh herbs and microgreens as delicate garnishes to add a pop of color and freshness to the plate. Carefully place them to enhance the visual appeal without overwhelming the dish.
Opt for sophisticated serving ware: Choose elegant serving plates and fine dining cutlery to elevate the presentation. The use of high-quality serving ware adds a touch of luxury to the dining experience.
Focus on symmetry and balance: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, aiming for symmetry and balance. This meticulous approach enhances the overall visual impact of the dish.
Highlight the melting cheese: Showcase the melted provolone cheese by ensuring it cascades gracefully over the sandwich, creating an enticing visual focal point.
Emphasize the caramelized onions: Place the caramelized onions strategically to draw attention to their rich, golden hue and aromatic appeal, adding depth to the visual presentation.
Create a refined au jus presentation: Serve the au jus in a sophisticated gravy boat or individual ramekins to add a touch of elegance to the dish and provide a luxurious dipping experience.
Consider the use of edible flowers: For an extra touch of sophistication, consider incorporating edible flowers as a delicate and visually stunning garnish, adding a whimsical and elegant element to the presentation.
Emphasize the sensory experience: Prioritize the sensory experience by ensuring that the presentation not only looks exquisite but also complements the rich aromas and flavors of the slow cooker French dip sandwich.

Essential Tools for Making French Dip Sandwiches in a Slow Cooker

Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop electrical cooking appliance that is used for simmering, which allows for the long, slow cooking of food. It's perfect for tenderizing meats and developing rich flavors in stews and soups.
Cutting board: A cutting board is a durable board on which food is cut. It provides a safe and clean surface for food preparation and protects countertops from knife marks.
Knife: A knife is an essential kitchen tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients. For this recipe, a sharp chef's knife is ideal for slicing the beef and cutting the vegetables.
Small bowl: A small bowl is used for mixing and combining spices or marinades before applying them to the beef.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is used for cooking the onions and peppers. It provides a wide, flat cooking surface and allows for even heat distribution.
Gravy separator: A gravy separator is a kitchen tool used to separate fat from pan drippings or broth. It helps to remove excess fat, leaving behind the flavorful broth for dipping the sandwiches.
Fine sieve: A fine sieve is a mesh strainer used to strain the broth, removing any solid particles and creating a smooth, clear liquid for serving with the sandwiches.
Cutting board: A cutting board is a durable board on which food is cut. It provides a safe and clean surface for food preparation and protects countertops from knife marks.

Storing and Freezing Your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

To store leftover french dip sandwiches, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you have leftover beef and au jus, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The beef will keep for up to 4 days, while the au jus can be stored for up to 5 days.
To reheat the sandwiches, remove the plastic wrap or foil and place the sandwiches on a baking sheet. Cover the sandwiches with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual sandwiches for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
If you want to freeze the leftover beef, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To freeze the au jus, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Leave some headspace in the container or bag to allow for expansion during freezing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen beef, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can reheat it in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
To reheat frozen au jus, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, transfer the au jus to a saucepan and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and keep the au jus warm until ready to serve.

How To Reheat Leftover French Dip Sandwiches

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover french dip sandwich in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat the sandwich in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will help retain the moisture in the bread and prevent it from becoming too crispy.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your french dip sandwich. Place the sandwich on the toaster oven tray and heat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on the sandwich to ensure it doesn't burn.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave to reheat your leftover french dip sandwich. Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for about 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, you can place a damp paper towel over the sandwich while it's heating.
If you want to reheat the beef and vegetables separately, you can do so in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in the skillet over medium heat, then add the beef and vegetables. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they're heated through. You can then assemble the sandwich with the reheated ingredients and melt the cheese under the broiler or in a toaster oven.
To reheat the au jus (dipping broth), pour it into a small saucepan and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You can also microwave the au jus in a microwave-safe container, stirring every 30 seconds, until it's hot.

Interesting Fact About French Dip Sandwiches

The slow cooker French dip sandwich is a classic American dish that originated in Los Angeles in the early 20th century. It is said that the sandwich was created by a local restaurant owner who accidentally dropped a French roll into a pan of beef drippings, and the customer loved the result. This led to the creation of the French dip sandwich, which is now a beloved comfort food enjoyed by many.

Is Making French Dip Sandwiches in a Slow Cooker Cost-Effective?

This slow cooker French dip sandwich recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like beef round roast, onions, and bell peppers makes it budget-friendly. The long cooking time allows for cheaper cuts of meat to become tender and flavorful. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it an economical choice for a satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is the Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich Healthy or Unhealthy?

The slow cooker French dip sandwich recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it uses lean beef round roast, which is a good source of protein. The recipe also incorporates fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, adding flavor without excessive calories. Using low-sodium beef broth helps control salt intake, and the inclusion of onions and bell peppers provides some vegetables to the dish. However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it healthier.

Opt for a whole wheat baguette with higher fiber content and more nutrients compared to regular baguettes
Use a reduced-fat cheese alternative to lower the overall fat and calorie content of the sandwich
Include additional vegetables, such as sliced tomatoes or leafy greens, to increase the nutrient density of the meal
Consider reducing the amount of beef per serving and increasing the proportion of vegetables to create a more balanced sandwich
Trim any visible fat from the beef roast before cooking to minimize saturated fat intake
Experiment with plant-based protein options, like portobello mushrooms or seitan, for a vegetarian alternative with less saturated fat and cholesterol

Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich Recipe

The slow cooker French dip sandwich recipe is a delightful combination of tender beef, flavorful herbs, and caramelized onions, all nestled in a crusty baguette. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender and infused with the aromatic herbs, while the caramelized onions add a sweet and savory note. The addition of the peppers and provolone cheese provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This recipe is a wonderful choice for a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic, butter, and cream for the perfect side to complement the savory French dip sandwich.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Fresh asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of zesty lemon zest for a bright and flavorful side dish.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Tender Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized and then drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for a delightful accompaniment to the French dip sandwich.

Similar Recipes to Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty stew is packed with tender beef, carrots, and potatoes in a rich and flavorful broth.

Grilled Vegetable Salad: Fire up the grill and toss your favorite vegetables for a delicious and healthy salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette.

Apple Crisp: Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples topped with a crispy oat and cinnamon crumble.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a French Dip Sandwich Meal

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke dip with crispy, golden-brown crostini for a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Indulge in savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a rich and flavorful mixture, topped with a sprinkle of cheese and baked to perfection for a mouthwatering appetizer option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Impress your guests with a decadent and indulgent dessert that oozes with rich, molten chocolate. The warm, gooey center is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic, elegant dessert. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese are topped with a dusting of cocoa powder for a sophisticated and delightful treat.

Why trust this Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich Recipe:

This slow cooker French dip sandwich recipe guarantees tender, flavorful beef infused with aromatic garlic, rosemary, and thyme. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a rich, succulent roast. The caramelized onions and sautéed peppers add depth and sweetness, while the melted provolone cheese brings a creamy, savory element. Trust in the combination of high-quality ingredients and meticulous cooking techniques to deliver a mouthwatering sandwich experience that will surely impress your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on the Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

What type of beef roast is best for this recipe?

I recommend using a beef round roast for this recipe. It's a flavorful and tender cut that works well for slow cooking.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sandwich?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for provolone, feel free to use your favorite cheese. Swiss, mozzarella, or even cheddar can work well with the flavors of the beef and onions.

Can I prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to assemble the sandwiches.

Is it necessary to strain the broth before serving?

Straining the broth helps remove any impurities and gives a smoother texture to the au jus. However, if you prefer a heartier broth, you can skip this step.

Can I use a different type of bread for the sandwich?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests using whole wheat baguettes, you can use any bread of your choice. French rolls, ciabatta, or hoagie buns all work well for this delicious sandwich.