Why You’ll Love Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Recipe
This recipe is wonderfully simple and delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooker does most of the work, transforming a chuck roast into melt-in-your-mouth shredded beef. The savory broth doubles as a delicious dipping sauce, making every bite juicy and satisfying. It’s easy to prep, great for feeding a crowd, and flexible enough to customize with cheese or extra seasonings. Plus, leftovers taste just as good the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 pounds beef chuck roast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
4 hoagie or French rolls
4 slices provolone cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
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Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Rub it evenly with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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For added depth of flavor, sear the roast in a hot skillet for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. This step is optional but recommended.
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Place the seasoned roast into the crockpot.
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In a small bowl, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Pour the mixture over the roast.
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Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and shreds easily.
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Remove the roast from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
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Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and let it soak in the juices for at least 10–15 minutes.
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Slice the rolls and lightly toast them. If using cheese, place a slice on each roll and broil briefly until melted.
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Pile the shredded beef onto the rolls and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm with small bowls of the cooking juices for dipping.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours on low
Total time: Approximately 8 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Add sliced onions or caramelized onions to the crockpot for extra sweetness and flavor.
Swap provolone for Swiss, mozzarella, or white American cheese.
Add a splash of dark beer to the broth for a deeper, richer au jus.
Include fresh herbs like thyme or a bay leaf while cooking for a subtle herbal note.
For a spicy kick, stir in a little crushed red pepper or serve with horseradish sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover shredded beef and au jus separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the beef gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat with some of the reserved juices to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
For freezing, place cooled shredded beef and some of the au jus in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook it on high for about 4–5 hours. However, cooking on low for a longer period yields more tender and flavorful meat.
Do I have to sear the roast first?
No, searing is optional. It enhances flavor but the slow cooker will still produce tender beef without this step.
What cut of beef works best?
Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender and shreds beautifully after slow cooking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat with the juices before serving.
How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?
Toast the rolls lightly before adding the beef. This helps create a barrier that prevents them from absorbing too much liquid.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free rolls and ensure your Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free.
What can I serve with French dip sandwiches?
They pair well with fries, potato chips, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Can I thicken the au jus?
Traditional au jus is thin, but if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a small cornstarch slurry and simmer until slightly thickened.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef is ready when it easily pulls apart with a fork and feels very tender.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Swiss, mozzarella, or even cheddar can be used depending on your preference.
Conclusion
Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food made easy. With tender, slow-cooked beef and a savory dipping sauce, this recipe delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy and quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.
