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Slow-cooked beef chuck roast, tender and soaked in savory broth, piled on toasted French rolls with melty provolone cheese. The flavorful juices double as a delicious dip, turning every bite into a cozy, hearty meal you’ll want any day you’re craving something rich and satisfying.
I whipped this up for a weekend lunch and had to make extra because it vanished fast. It’s now a classic favorite that never disappoints.
What You Need
- 8 slices provolone cheese: melts smoothly and pairs perfectly with the beef
- 1/2 cup melted butter: brushes the rolls for extra richness and crunch
- 6 French rolls or baguettes: toast nicely and hold the filling well
- 2 bay leaves: give subtle herbal hints during cooking
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: brighten up the richness with a punchy flavor
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: adds a deep umami boost to the broth
- 3 cups beef broth: the tasty base for cooking and dipping
- 1 onion, sliced: sweetens and flavors the broth
- Salt and pepper: bring out the natural taste of the beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: sears the beef and builds a crust
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast: the best cut for slow cooking and shredding
Step-by-Step Guide
- Get The Flavor Started
- Heat olive oil in a big pan over medium-high. Season beef with salt and pepper all over. Sear it for 8 to 10 minutes until browned and crusty, locking in those juicy flavors.
- Cook The Beef Slowly
- Move the browned beef to a slow cooker. Toss in the sliced onion, beef broth, soy sauce, minced garlic, and bay leaves. Cover and cook low and slow for 7 to 8 hours until the meat’s soft and pulls apart easily.
- Ready The Rolls
- Heat the oven to 350°F. Slice open the rolls and spread melted butter inside. Pop them on a baking sheet and toast for about 5 minutes until they turn lightly golden and crisp.
- Make The Sandwiches
- Shred the beef finely. Divide it onto the toasted rolls and top with provolone slices. Place back in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes so the cheese melts gooey and smooth.
- Fix The Au Jus
- Strain the slow cooker juices, tossing out the solids. Pour the warm dipping sauce into small bowls to have alongside the sandwiches.
- Dig In
- Serve right away and enjoy the perfect combo of crispy bread, tender beef, melted cheese, and juicy sauce.
This beef dip sandwich shines at family meals, especially for game day or relaxed weekend dinners. Folks love building their own, and there’s always leftover au jus to keep the cozy vibes flowing. It’s a dish that starts conversations and fills plates.
How To Store It
Switch It Up
Great Things To Pair
Seasonal Twists
This beef dip sandwich is a cozy crowd-pleaser that brings everyone around the table with juicy, cheesy bites. It’s a reliable favorite that hits the spot every time.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which beef cut works best for French dip sandwiches?
Chuck roast is great since its fat and connective tissue break down during slow cooking, making the meat tender and easy to shred.
- → How do I make the au jus for dipping?
After cooking, strain out solids from the broth and serve it warm alongside the sandwiches for dipping.
- → Can I toast the bread without a regular oven?
Sure, a toaster oven or skillet works well to brown buttered French rolls until they’re slightly crispy and golden.
- → What's the best way to melt provolone on the sandwiches?
Once the beef’s on the toasted rolls, add provolone slices and warm them briefly in the oven until melted evenly.
- → How can I boost the beef broth flavor?
Mix in a bit of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to deepen the taste, and adjust salt carefully to your liking.