Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 2 1/2 to 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
Cooking Liquids and Flavoring
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 (1-ounce) packages dry onion soup mix
- 2 cups water
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans beef broth
Assembly
- 6-8 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
- 6-8 crusty rolls (such as ciabatta)
Instructions
- Season and Heat Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, generously season all sides of the beef chuck roast with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Sear the Roast: Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the roast in the skillet and sear on all sides. Let it sit undisturbed for 1-2 minutes per side to develop a browned crust that enhances flavor and locks in juices.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared roast and any pan juices to your slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle the two packages of dry onion soup mix over the roast. Add 2 cups of water and 2 cans (29 ounces total) of beef broth to the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook the Beef: Cook on high for 4-6 hours, or on low for 8-10 hours, until the meat is extremely tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Shred the Meat: Remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Slice the crusty rolls and pile the shredded beef onto the bottom halves. Top with a slice of Swiss or provolone cheese.
- Broil to Melt Cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler until the cheese melts and the tops of the buns begin to toast lightly.
- Serve: Serve the sandwiches with the warm cooking juices from the slow cooker on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious French Dip Sandwiches!
Notes
- If you prefer more au jus, add additional beef broth before slow cooking.
- Searing is optional but recommended to add depth of flavor.
- For a quicker option, cook on high for 4 hours instead of low for 8-10 hours.
- Use crusty rolls like ciabatta for best texture that holds the juicy meat well.
- Provolone cheese works well as a milder alternative to Swiss.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours (high) or 8 to 10 hours (low)
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American