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French Dip Sandwiches Recipe

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4.1 from 8 reviews

This French Dip Sandwich recipe features thinly sliced deli roast beef layered with melted provolone cheese inside buttery toasted French rolls. The sandwich is served with a savory Au Jus dip made with gravy mix for a comforting and delicious meal perfect for gatherings or a hearty lunch.

Ingredients

Sandwich Ingredients

  • 12 French dinner rolls or slider buns
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, about 4 oz / 113 grams / ½ stick)
  • 1 oz Au Jus gravy mix (2830 grams, divided)
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 lbs thin-sliced deli roast beef (900 grams)
  • 12 slices Provolone cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet or a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare rolls: Slice each French roll in half horizontally and place the bottom halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Make buttery mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, half of the Au Jus gravy mix, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh thyme, and salt until well combined.
  4. Brush bottom rolls: Using a brush, generously coat the cut-side of the bottom halves of the rolls with half of the buttery mixture, ensuring even coverage for rich flavor.
  5. Layer beef and cheese: Arrange a portion of the thin-sliced deli roast beef over each bottom roll, then top each with one slice of provolone cheese.
  6. Add top halves and brush: Place the top halves of the rolls over the beef and cheese layers, then brush the outsides of the top halves with the remaining buttery mixture. Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness.
  7. Cover and bake: Loosely cover the assembled sandwiches with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cheese to begin melting.
  8. Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the tops of the rolls are lightly golden and toasted.
  9. Prepare Au Jus dip: While the sandwiches bake, prepare the remaining Au Jus gravy mix according to the packet instructions, heating it to create a flavorful dipping sauce.
  10. Serve: Serve the French Dip Sandwiches hot with the Au Jus dip on the side for dipping each sandwich to enjoy the savory combination fully.

Notes

  • Use fresh French rolls or slider buns for the best texture and flavor.
  • Thinly sliced deli roast beef works well, but leftover roast beef can be used for a homemade touch.
  • Adjust the amount of Au Jus gravy mix to taste for a richer or milder dipping sauce.
  • Fresh thyme can be substituted with dried thyme if needed, using about half the quantity.
  • For a more robust sandwich, add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms as optional fillings.
  • Covering the sandwiches while baking helps keep them moist and allows cheese to melt evenly.