Slow-Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a savory delight that brings together tender slices of beef, crusty bread, and rich au jus for a satisfying meal. This recipe is a modern take on the classic French Dip sandwich, known for its delectable combination of flavors and the unique dunking experience in warm beef broth. With a history that traces back to early 20th-century Los Angeles and the culinary crossroads of American and French influences, Slow-Cooker French Dip Sandwiches offer a taste of both tradition and innovation.

The origins of the French Dip sandwich are believed to have emerged in the early 20th century at Philippe the Original, a historic deli in Los Angeles. The story goes that Philippe Mathieu, the founder, accidentally dropped a French roll into the drippings of a roast beef cooking in the oven. Rather than discarding the roll, he decided to serve it to a customer who requested a sandwich. The customer loved the flavor, and the French Dip sandwich was born.

The sandwich’s popularity grew, and variations of the recipe emerged. The “dip” aspect, where the sandwich is dipped into au jus (beef broth), became a signature element of the dish. Today, the French Dip sandwich has become a beloved staple on menus across the United States.

This slow-cooker adaptation pays homage to the original while embracing the convenience of modern cooking techniques. By using a slow cooker, the flavors meld and the beef becomes irresistibly tender, resulting in a satisfying and convenient version of the classic sandwich.

SERVES: 8

PREP TIME: 30 MINUTES

COOKING TIME: 9 TO 12 HOURS

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE BEEF:

• 3-4 lbs beef roast (such as chuck roast or sirloin)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

FOR THE SANDWICHES:

• Crusty French rolls or baguettes
• Provolone or Swiss cheese slices
• Prepared horseradish or Dijon mustard (optional)
• Sautéed onions and peppers (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS 

PREPARING THE BEEF:

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sear the beef roast on all sides until browned. This step is optional but enhances the flavor.
2. Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seared or unseared beef roast on top.
3. Pour the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the beef.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and easily shreds.
5. Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Keep the au jus (cooking liquid) in the slow cooker for dipping.

ASSEMBLING THE SANDWICHES:

1. Split the French rolls or baguettes lengthwise. If desired, toast the bread slightly in the oven.
2. Layer provolone or Swiss cheese slices on the bottom halves of the bread. Pile the shredded beef on top of the cheese.
3. If desired, spread prepared horseradish or Dijon mustard on the top halves of the bread. You can also add sautéed onions and peppers for extra flavor.
4. Place the top halves of the bread over the beef to complete the sandwiches.
5. Serve the sandwiches alongside individual bowls of the reserved au jus. Guests can dip their sandwiches into the warm au jus before each bite.

CONCLUSIONS:

• Slow-Cooker French Dip Sandwiches offer a journey through culinary history and flavor. Rooted in the story of Philippe the Original and the iconic French Dip sandwich, this recipe adapts the classic for modern tastes and convenience. By incorporating a slow cooker, the beef becomes tender and flavorful, while the dunking experience in warm au jus remains a hallmark of the dish. With each bite, Slow-Cooker French Dip Sandwiches pay homage to the past while embracing the comforts of today’s kitchen.