Classic French Dip Sandwich
A beloved Los Angeles invention, this French Dip Sandwich features tender roast beef piled high on a toasted French roll, served with a rich, savory au jus for dipping.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Deli-sliced roast beef(Good quality, thinly sliced roast beef from a deli is recommended for best results.)
- 4 French rolls or Baguettes(Crusty French rolls or small baguettes work best. Ensure they are fresh.)
- 2 cups Beef broth(Low-sodium beef broth is preferred to control saltiness.)
- 4 slices Swiss cheese(Thinly sliced Swiss cheese melts well.)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter(Softened for easy spreading.)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce(Adds depth of flavor to the au jus.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder(For seasoning the au jus.)
- to taste Salt and Black Pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Au Jus: In a medium saucepan, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let it gently simmer while you prepare the sandwiches, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Prepare the Rolls: Slice each French roll lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through if you prefer a hinged roll. Lightly butter the cut sides of the rolls.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 3
Toast the Rolls: Place the buttered rolls cut-side up on a baking sheet. Toast them under the broiler or in a toaster oven until lightly golden brown and fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Warm the Roast Beef: While the rolls are toasting, gently warm the sliced roast beef. You can do this by briefly submerging it in the simmering au jus for about 30-60 seconds, or by placing it in a separate small saucepan over low heat. The goal is to warm it through, not to cook it further. Drain any excess liquid from the beef.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Assemble the Sandwiches: Generously pile the warmed roast beef onto the bottom half of each toasted roll. Top the beef with a slice of Swiss cheese.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Melt the Cheese (Optional): For melted cheese, you can place the assembled sandwiches back under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep a close eye on them.
⏱️ 1-2 minutes - 7
Serve: Serve the French Dip Sandwiches immediately with the warm au jus in small dipping bowls on the side. Encourage guests to dip generously.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The quality of the roast beef is key. Opt for thinly sliced deli-style roast beef.
- ✓Using fresh, crusty French rolls provides the best texture and holds up well to dipping.
- ✓Don't overcook or over-warm the roast beef, as it can become tough. Gentle warming is best.
- ✓For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary to the au jus.
- ✓A splash of red wine in the au jus can add complexity.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a layer of thinly sliced caramelized onions over the roast beef before adding cheese.
- Serve with a side of horseradish cream sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use provolone or Gruyere cheese instead of Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley to the au jus for color and freshness.