There’s a soothing comfort that comes with a meal you can throw together without fuss—and these Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches are just that! Imagine returning home after a long day, the enticing aroma of slow-cooked beef wafting through your door, instantly melting away your stress. This recipe takes the humble sandwich and transforms it into a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

By allowing tender beef, zesty onions, and gooey melted cheese to steep in your slow cooker, you’ll create a meal that not only fills your belly but warms your heart. Whether you’re prepping for a casual gathering or looking for something to satisfy those cravings without breaking a sweat, this easy, delicious comfort food is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Gather your ingredients, and let me show you how to craft this crowd-pleasing delight that you’ll crave all week long!

Why Are Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches So Irresistible?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe is incredibly easy, allowing anyone—cooks and non-cooks alike—to recreate it effortlessly.

Flavor explosion: The combination of succulent beef, zesty onion soup mix, and melted cheese creates a taste sensation that will have you coming back for more.

Perfect for meal prep: Set it and forget it! These sandwiches cook slowly, freeing up your time for other activities, making it a fantastic choice for busy family nights.

Crowd-pleasing: Whether for a family dinner or casual gathering, these sandwiches always impress, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Versatile addition: Feel free to switch up the cheeses or add toppings like caramelized onions for a personalized touch—you can make it uniquely yours!

Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Ingredients

• Everything you need for flavor!

For the Beef

Olive oil – Adds richness and flavor during searing. Substitution: Can use vegetable oil if unavailable.
Beef chuck roast (2½ to 3 pounds) – Main protein that provides a tender and juicy finish after slow cooking. Substitution: Brisket can be used; slice thin if not shredding easily.
Kosher salt – Enhances the beef’s natural flavors. Substitution: Sea salt can be used.
Freshly ground black pepper – Adds depth and spice to the beef.

For the Flavor Base

Dry onion soup mix (2 packets) – Seasoning that infuses the broth with robust flavor. No direct substitution available; homemade onion soup mix can be used.
Water (2 cups) – Needed to create the cooking liquid.
Beef broth (2 cans, 14.5 ounces) – Formulates the au jus that enhances the sandwich. Options: Better-than-Bouillon or homemade broth.

For Serving

Swiss or provolone cheese (6–8 slices) – Melts to create a creamy layer atop the beef. Substitution: Cheddar can be used for a sharper flavor.
Crusty rolls (6–8, ciabatta or hoagie) – Hold the fillings and provide a crunchy element. Ensure rolls are sturdy enough for dipping.

How to Make Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches

Heat Oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. While it warms, season your beef chuck roast generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Sear Beef: Sear the beef in the hot oil for 1–2 minutes on each side until nicely browned. This step builds flavor, so take your time here.
Transfer Beef: Transfer the seared beef and any drippings into your slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle the dry onion soup mix over the top for rich seasoning.
Add Liquids: Pour in 2 cups of water and the beef broth, ensuring the beef is mostly submerged. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4–6 hours or LOW for 8–10 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
Shred Beef: Once the beef has cooked, shred it using two forks in the slow cooker. This will allow it to soak up more of that flavorful broth!
Prepare Rolls: Slice your crusty rolls in half and load them with generous portions of the shredded beef and a couple of slices of Swiss or provolone cheese.
Melt Cheese: Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and the rolls are lightly toasted.
Serve: Enjoy these hearty sandwiches with a small bowl of warm au jus for dipping. It’s the perfect accompaniment!

Optional: Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef by searing it and seasoning it up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors infuse before placing it in the slow cooker. Simply refrigerate the seasoned beef until you’re ready to cook. The onion soup mix and liquids can also be measured out ahead of time and stored together for convenience. When you’re ready to serve, just place the beef in the slow cooker with the liquids and cook as directed. Your family will enjoy a warm, comforting meal that’s just as delicious as if freshly made!

What to Serve with Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?

These slow-cooked treasures deserve a flavorful companion to create a well-rounded meal.

Crispy Potato Wedges: Perfectly seasoned, these wedges add a satisfying crunch and complement the sandwich’s juicy filling beautifully.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese, providing balance.
Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy slaw brings a refreshing texture contrast while enhancing the overall flavor explosion of your meal.
Garlic Butter Breadsticks: Warm and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for dipping in the au jus, enhancing every bite of this comforting feast.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and tender, steamed broccoli is a nutritious contrast to the rich sandwich, keeping your meal feeling lighter.
Apple Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of classic apple pie—it perfectly echoes the warm, homey vibes of your dinner.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches

Fridge: Store leftover beef and au jus in separate airtight containers for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze shredded beef and au jus separately for up to 3 months. Make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw refrigerated meat overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Serving: Assemble sandwiches fresh using stored beef and au jus to ensure you enjoy comforting Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches at their best!

Expert Tips for Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches

Don’t Rush Searing: Searing the beef builds rich flavor; don’t skip this step! It elevates your Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches with a caramelized crust.
Check for Tenderness: Make sure the beef is fork-tender before shredding. If not, cook it longer! Undercooked beef won’t shred well, affecting your sandwich’s texture.
Utilize a Fat Separator: For a leaner au jus, use a fat separator to skim off excess grease from the broth. This will keep your dipping sauce flavorful yet light.
Use Quality Rolls: Opt for crusty rolls that can hold up against the au jus without falling apart. Avoid soft, flimsy bread to ensure a fantastic sandwich experience!
Experiment with Cheese: While Swiss or provolone are classic, feel free to mix it up with cheddar or even pepper jack for a spicy twist—tailor your Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches to your taste!

Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Variations

Feel free to make these sandwiches uniquely yours with simple swaps and flavorful additions!

Cheese Swap: Replace Swiss or provolone with cheddar for a sharper, more robust flavor that bursts with yumminess.
Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding them to the slow cooker for an earthy depth that complements the beef beautifully.
Add Heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.
Onion Twist: Caramelize onions until they’re golden brown and sweet, then mix into the shredded beef for a richness that enhances every bite.
Slow-Cooked Veggies: Toss in diced carrots or bell peppers during cooking for added texture and sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, into the slow cooker for a burst of aromatic goodness that deepens the flavor profile.
Bread Choice: Switch crusty rolls for soft baguettes or even tortillas to create a delectable wrap; the possibilities are endless!
Dipping Sauce: Instead of au jus, consider serving it with homemade garlic aioli for a creamy contrast that elevates your sandwich experience.

Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right beef for Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using a beef chuck roast. It’s perfectly marbled with fat, which enhances the slow cooking process. If you can’t find chuck roast, brisket is a good alternative, just slice it thin if it’s not shredding easily.

What’s the best way to store leftover Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
Very simply! Store leftover beef and au jus in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the shredded beef and the au jus separately for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the shredded beef and au jus cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label them with the date, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep everything juicy.

What should I do if my beef isn’t shredding easily after slow cooking?
Should your beef not shred easily, it might need a bit more time in the slow cooker! Simply return it to the cooker and let it go for another 1-2 hours, checking periodically until it reaches that lovely, fork-tender state. Patience is key here!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
Very! This recipe is primarily beef; however, it does include seasonings like onion soup mix, which is not safe for pets. If you’re considering this dish for your furry friends, it’s best to set aside some plain beef before seasoning it. Additionally, always check for any allergies to beef or dairy if serving to guests.

How do I make a homemade onion soup mix if I can’t find the packets?
Creating your own onion soup mix is straightforward! Combine 1/2 cup dried onion flakes, 1 tablespoon beef bouillon granules, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and substitute this mixture for the two packets called for in the recipe. It’s a fantastic way to control the flavors and ingredients!