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Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches Recipe

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4.3 from 57 reviews

This Cooker French Dip Sandwich recipe features tender, slow-cooked beef chuck roast seasoned with onion soup mix and simmered in a flavorful broth. The shredded meat is piled high on crusty rolls with melted Swiss or provolone cheese, then toasted under the broiler for a deliciously melty finish. Served alongside its savory cooking juices for dipping, this sandwich is perfect for a comforting meal.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 10 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Shred the Meat: Remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
  6. Assemble Sandwiches: Slice the crusty rolls and pile the shredded beef onto the bottom halves. Top with a slice of Swiss or provolone cheese.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours (high) or 8 to 10 hours (low)
  • Category: Sandwiches
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American