Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a wonderful combination of tender, slow-cooked beef and melty cheese all stuffed into soft sandwich rolls. The beef cooks low and slow with savory herbs and onions, soaking up delicious flavors that make every bite juicy and satisfying. The best part is the rich, flavorful au jus that comes from the slow cooker, perfect for dipping each sandwich to make it extra tasty.
I love using my slow cooker for this recipe because it does all the hard work for me while filling the house with amazing smells. It’s one of those meals I know will please everyone whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend lunch. I always try to save a little extra au jus for dipping at the table—it’s the key to making these sandwiches feel special and extra cozy.
These sandwiches are great served with a side of crispy fries or a simple green salad. I’ve also found that topping them with a little provolone or Swiss cheese and letting it melt right on the warm meat takes it over the top. It’s a meal that feels like a treat but comes together so easily. Whenever I make these, I’m already looking forward to leftovers the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef chuck roast: This cut is perfect because it becomes tender and easy to shred after slow cooking. If you can’t find chuck roast, brisket or round roast works well too.
Beef broth: I prefer low-sodium broth so I can control the salt better. If you don’t have broth, beef bouillon cubes dissolved in water can be a good substitute.
Onions and garlic: These add great flavor. Yellow onions are ideal for sweetness, but white or red onions can work. Fresh garlic gives a nice punch, but garlic powder can be used if needed.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring an earthy depth. If fresh herbs aren’t handy, dried herbs like in the recipe do the trick. You can skip the bay leaf if you don’t have one, but it adds lovely aroma.
Buns: French or hoagie rolls should be soft but sturdy enough to hold all the juicy beef. You can use ciabatta or even a crusty baguette if you like more crunch.
Cheese: Provolone and Swiss melt well and pair nicely with beef. If you prefer, mozzarella or even cheddar can be tasty alternatives.
How Can I Make Sure the Beef Is Tender and Easy to Shred?
Cooking the beef low and slow is key. Here’s how to get perfectly tender roast:
- Season and sear the beef first to lock in flavor and create a nice crust.
- Place it in the slow cooker with broth and aromatics for moisture and taste.
- Cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours so the connective tissue breaks down.
- Check the beef near the end—when it pulls apart easily with two forks, it’s ready.
- Don’t rush shredding; if it feels tough, cook longer as slow cookers vary.
Taking these steps ensures your beef melts in your mouth and makes the sandwiches juicy and satisfying every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – it cooks the beef low and slow to tender perfection without much effort.
- Large skillet – great for searing the beef and caramelizing the onions to deepen flavor.
- Tongs or meat fork – to easily turn the beef while browning and shred it after cooking.
- Sharp knife – for slicing the rolls cleanly without squashing them.
- Cups or small bowls – perfect for serving the au jus alongside for dipping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef chuck for pork shoulder for a slightly sweeter flavor and tender texture.
- Add sautéed mushrooms with the onions for an earthier taste.
- Try horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard on the sandwich for a tangy kick.
- Top with pepper jack cheese to add a little spicy heat to the classic sandwich.
Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Beef and Au Jus:
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
For The Sandwiches:
- 6 hoagie rolls or French rolls
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation including searing and sautéing, then 8-9 hours on low (or 4-5 hours on high) in the slow cooker for the beef to become tender and shreddable. After cooking, just a few minutes to assemble and melt the cheese on the sandwiches.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef Roast:
Season the beef generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the seared roast to your slow cooker.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, sauté the thinly sliced onions until they soften and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Transfer onions and garlic on top of the beef in the slow cooker.
3. Add Broth and Herbs, Then Slow Cook:
Pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the slow cooker. Add dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is very tender and easy to shred.
4. Shred the Beef and Prepare Au Jus:
Carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Discard the bay leaf from the slow cooker. Skim off any excess fat from the liquid left in the slow cooker and keep it warm—it’s your flavorful au jus for dipping.
5. Assemble and Serve Your Sandwiches:
Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise. Pile shredded beef generously inside each roll and top with a slice of provolone or Swiss cheese. For melty cheese, place the sandwiches under a broiler or in a warm oven for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot with small bowls of the au jus on the side for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Beef Chuck Roast?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the roast in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Cooking from frozen can increase the cooking time and may result in uneven tenderness.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can slow cook the beef a day ahead, shred it, and store both the meat and au jus in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before assembling sandwiches.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover shredded beef and au jus refrigerated in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave and assemble sandwiches fresh for the best taste.
What Can I Substitute for Hoagie Rolls?
Ciabatta, baguettes, or other sturdy sandwich rolls work well as alternatives. Just choose a bread that can hold up to the juicy beef and dipping au jus without getting soggy too quickly.
