Crockpot French Dip

You have to try this easy crockpot French dip recipe. It is the best French dip recipe I have found. Our entire family loved it! Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner, this dish offers tender beef in a flavorful broth, making every bite a delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook low and slow while you go about your day.
• Flavorful and Savory: The combination of beef roast, onion soup mix, and garlic creates a rich flavor that your taste buds will adore.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a sandwich or serve it as a main dish with sides. It works for any occasion!
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please both adults and kids, making it a great choice for family meals.
• Leftover Friendly: The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Using the right equipment ensures that your crockpot French dip turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Broiler (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is essential for cooking the beef low and slow, resulting in tender meat that shreds easily.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for slicing your ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife will make slicing onions and shredding beef much easier.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make this delicious crockpot French dip:

For the Beef Dip

• 3-4 lbs beef roast
• ½ onion (sliced)
• 1 packaged onion soup mix
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 4 cups beef broth

For Serving

• 6 hoagie rolls
• 12 slices provolone cheese

How to Make Crockpot French Dip

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Place everything except the rolls in the crockpot. This includes:
1. Beef roast
2. Sliced onion
3. Onion soup mix
4. Minced garlic
5. Beef broth

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Allowing enough time ensures that the beef becomes tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Shred the Beef

Once cooked, carefully remove the beef from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the broth.

Step 4: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Serve on toasted hoagie rolls topped with provolone cheese. If desired, melt the cheese under a broiler for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve with Juicy Broth

Serve with extra broth on the side so you can dip your sandwiches into the juice for added richness.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, mix ¼ cup cornstarch with ¼ cup water and stir it into the broth. Turn to high heat until thickened.

With these simple steps, you will have an amazing crockpot French dip ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot French Dip

Crockpot French Dip is a delicious and hearty meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a party or having a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Classic Sandwiches

• Serve the shredded beef on toasted hoagie rolls and top with melted provolone cheese for a traditional French dip experience.

Cheese & Herb Topping

• Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top of the melted cheese for extra flavor. This adds a fresh taste and makes the dish visually appealing.

Dipping Sauce

• Provide small bowls of the beef broth for dipping. The rich, savory broth enhances the flavor of each bite.

French Fries or Chips

• Pair your sandwiches with crispy French fries or potato chips. The crunch complements the softness of the hoagie rolls nicely.

Side Salad

• A light green salad can balance out the richness of the French dip. Consider a simple vinaigrette dressing to keep it refreshing.

Grilled Vegetables

• Offer grilled vegetables as a side option. The smoky flavor of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus contrasts beautifully with the sandwich.

How to Perfect Crockpot French Dip

To ensure your Crockpot French Dip turns out amazing every time, consider these tips for perfecting your dish.

• Choose Quality Beef: Select a well-marbled cut for tenderness and flavor. Chuck roast works great for shredding after cooking.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasonings. The onion soup mix adds depth, but feel free to add additional spices like black pepper and garlic powder.
• Low and Slow Cooking: Cook on low for 8-10 hours to achieve perfectly tender meat. Avoid cooking on high to maintain moisture.
• Toast Your Rolls: Lightly toast your hoagie rolls before serving to add texture and prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Thicken Your Au Jus: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the broth towards the end of cooking.
• Add Variety: Experiment by adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the crock pot for different flavors in your sandwiches.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot French Dip

Crockpot French Dip pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that soaks up the au jus beautifully.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, balancing out the richness of the beef.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is an easy way to add nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside your sandwich.
5. Macaroni Salad: A cold macaroni salad provides a refreshing contrast, making it a great picnic-style pairing.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring a touch of sweetness that complements savory flavors well.
7. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans can enhance the meal’s comfort factor while providing additional protein.
8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is another fun addition, especially during summer barbecues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Crockpot French Dip, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold Flavoring: Skipping the onion soup mix can lead to blandness. Always include it for depth of flavor.
• Bold Overcooking: Cooking on high instead of low can dry out the beef. Stick to low heat for tender, juicy meat.
• Bold Not Shredding Properly: Failing to shred the beef well results in large chunks. Shred thoroughly for better sandwich assembly.
• Bold Ignoring Broth Quality: Using low-quality broth affects the taste. Opt for rich, flavorful beef broth for best results.
• Bold Forgetting Cheese Melting: Not melting the cheese can lead to a less enjoyable experience. Always melt provolone under a broiler before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot French Dip

• Place cooled beef and broth in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot French Dip

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Crockpot French Dip:

Can I use other meats for Crockpot French Dip?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey for a lighter option while still enjoying great flavors.

How do I customize my Crockpot French Dip?

Feel free to add sliced peppers or mushrooms during cooking for extra veggies and flavor.

What bread works best with this recipe?

Hoagie rolls are ideal, but you can also use baguettes or any crusty bread that holds up well with dipping.

How long does it take to cook the Crockpot French Dip?

Cooking on low takes about 8-10 hours, which allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot French Dip recipe is not only easy but also incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients like peppers or different cheeses to suit your taste!