French Dip Grilled Cheese

Caramelized onions, roast beef, and Swiss cheese melt together in this delightful French Dip Grilled Cheese. Perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, this recipe offers a gourmet twist on classic comfort food. Each bite is bursting with flavor, especially when dipped into the savory au jus. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this sandwich will impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of caramelized onions and savory roast beef creates a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner, this dish fits right in.
• Dip It Good: The au jus adds an extra layer of flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this fantastic sandwich, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and enhances your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or griddle
• Small saucepan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or griddle: Ideal for achieving that perfect crispy bread while melting the cheese evenly.
• Small saucepan: Great for simmering the au jus without taking too much space on your stove.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for slicing onions and sandwiches effortlessly.

Ingredients

Caramelized onions, roast beef, and Swiss melt on crispy bread, paired with flavorful au jus for dipping.

For the Sandwiches

• 8 slices crusty French bread
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 12 ounces thinly sliced roast beef
• 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for spreading

For the Au Jus

• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

How to Make French Dip Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil. Add sliced onions and sauté them while stirring frequently until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. This should take about 12 to 15 minutes. Once done, transfer the onions to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Au Jus

Wipe the skillet clean after removing the onions. In a small saucepan, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and thyme. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes. Season it with salt and pepper according to your taste. Afterward, strain through a small strainer and keep warm.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

On a clean work surface, arrange 4 slices of bread. Layer each slice with 1 piece of Swiss cheese followed by a generous portion of roast beef and caramelized onions. Top each sandwich with another slice of Swiss cheese before covering them with the remaining bread slices.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwiches

Spread unsalted butter evenly on the outsides of each sandwich. Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill each sandwich for about 3 to 4 minutes per side while pressing gently until the bread is crisp and golden brown and the cheese has melted thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve

Slice sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately with warm au jus for dipping. Enjoy your delicious French Dip Grilled Cheese!

How to Serve French Dip Grilled Cheese

Serving French Dip Grilled Cheese can elevate your meal experience. This delicious sandwich pairs perfectly with various sides and dips for a complete dining experience.

With Au Jus

• Dipping: Serve the sandwiches with warm au jus for a flavorful contrast that enhances each bite.
• Garnish: Add fresh thyme or parsley on top of the au jus for a pop of color and flavor.

Pair with Pickles

• Crunchy Delight: Serve with dill pickles for a tangy crunch that complements the rich flavors of the grilled cheese.
• Variety: Consider offering a variety of pickles, including bread and butter or spicy options, to cater to different tastes.

Fresh Salad

• Lightening Up: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the sandwich.
• Add-Ons: Include cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots for added texture and flavor.

Sweet Potato Fries

• Crunchy Contrast: Serve crispy sweet potato fries on the side for a sweet and savory combination that everyone will love.
• Seasoning Options: Toss them in sea salt, paprika, or garlic powder for extra flavor.

How to Perfect French Dip Grilled Cheese

Perfecting your French Dip Grilled Cheese is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwiches are irresistible.

• Use fresh bread: Opt for crusty French bread for the best texture and flavor. Fresh bread will hold up better against the fillings.
• Sauté onions slowly: Take your time when caramelizing onions; this enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your sandwich.
• Don’t skip the butter: Spreading butter on the outside of the sandwiches creates a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese.
• Keep it warm: When preparing multiple sandwiches, keep them warm in an oven set to low heat until ready to serve. This ensures they stay melted and delicious.
• Experiment with cheese: While Swiss is traditional, try mixing in provolone or even pepper jack for a twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for French Dip Grilled Cheese

Pairing side dishes with your French Dip Grilled Cheese can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture that balances the richness of the sandwich.

2. Potato Chips
   Crispy potato chips offer an easy, crunchy side that complements the soft grilled cheese perfectly.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your plate while adding natural sweetness.

4. French Fries
   Classic French fries are always a hit! You can season them with garlic powder or Parmesan cheese for added flair.

5. Tomato Soup
   A warm bowl of tomato soup is a classic pairing that adds comfort alongside your grilled cheese sandwiches.

6. Caesar Salad
   A Caesar salad provides a creamy dressing and crunchy romaine lettuce, making it a perfect companion dish.

7. Stuffed Mushrooms
   These savory bites can be filled with cheese or herbs, enhancing your meal’s gourmet feel.

8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad adds freshness and sweetness, making it an excellent counterbalance to the hearty sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your French Dip Grilled Cheese to perfection. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold choice of bread: Using the wrong type of bread can lead to soggy sandwiches. Opt for crusty French bread that holds up well when grilled.
• Bold overcooking onions: Caramelizing onions too quickly can result in burnt flavors. Cook them slowly over medium heat for a rich, sweet taste.
• Bold skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the au jus can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper before serving.
• Bold overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too many sandwiches at once can cause uneven grilling. Work in batches to ensure each sandwich gets enough heat.
• Bold neglecting butter: Forgetting to butter the outside of the bread results in a less crispy texture. Spread unsalted butter generously for that perfect crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure sandwiches are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing French Dip Grilled Cheese

• Wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating French Dip Grilled Cheese

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; check frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Bold Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, flipping until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a French Dip Grilled Cheese?

A French Dip Grilled Cheese combines savory roast beef and melted Swiss cheese between crispy bread, served with a flavorful au jus for dipping.

How do I make my own au jus?

Simply simmer low-sodium beef broth with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh thyme. Strain before serving.

Can I customize my French Dip Grilled Cheese?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or different cheeses based on your preference.

What sides pair well with French Dip Grilled Cheese?

Consider serving it with a light salad, potato chips, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This French Dip Grilled Cheese recipe offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. The versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting satisfaction of dipping into warm au jus!