There’s something so comforting about sinking your teeth into warm, tender Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches, isn’t there? I still remember the first time I made these for my family—oh, the aroma that filled my kitchen! The slow-cooked roast beef melts in your mouth, and when dipped into that flavorful au jus dipping sauce, it’s pure bliss. Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches quickly became one of our go-to meals, especially on hectic days when I want something that’s both easy and satisfying.
I wasn’t always confident about slow cooker recipes, especially with beef sandwiches crockpot-style. There was a time I tried tossing in a big roast without enough seasoning or patience, and frankly, my “dip” was more bland broth than the rich sauce I had hoped for. But once I figured out the right blend of spices and how long to let everything cook low and slow, I was hooked. This easy French dip recipe has become a staple in our busy family life, perfect for when I need a little help from the crockpot to put dinner on the table.
I love how flexible Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches are—it’s one of those cozy meals that feels fancy but really doesn’t take much hands-on time. Before discovering this recipe, I’d often shy away from roast beef sandwiches because I worried about tough meat or complicated steps. But once I leaned into the slow cooker French dip method, everything changed. The meat turns out so tender and juicy, and the au jus dipping sauce ties everything together perfectly.
It’s also become a dish that I recommend when friends come over because it’s crowd-pleasing and easy to prepare ahead of time. Plus, pairing it with some classic sides—like a warm bowl of my Crockpot Potato Soup or even some stuffing like I shared in my Crockpot Stuffing post—just makes the whole meal feel like a little celebration. If you haven’t tried these slow cooked roast beef sandwiches yet, keep reading—I’ll walk you through how to make my foolproof Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches, share my best tips, and some secrets for that perfect au jus. Trust me, it’s worth every bite!
By the way, if you want to see a few other takes on slow cooker French dip from my fellow home cooks, I love the versions at House of Nash Eats, Celebrating Sweets, and The Butcher’s Wife—there’s always something new to learn from them.
What You’ll Need for This Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches
Alright, friend, so if you’re ready to whip up some amazing Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches, here’s what you’ll want to gather. I always find that quality ingredients make the biggest difference—even when relying on the slow cooker to do the heavy lifting.

- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast (I like to get it from the local butcher’s cut section — perfect for slow cooked roast beef sandwiches because it becomes so tender)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a cozy depth to the flavor)
- 2 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought works best for the au jus dipping sauce)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (trust me, it boosts umami)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 4 to 6 hoagie rolls or French rolls (fresh from the bakery if possible — these soft buns hold up well without getting soggy)
- Butter for toasting the rolls
When making Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches, you can often find a great chuck roast on sale or at your neighborhood butcher’s counter. Pro tip: I shop early in the morning to snag the freshest cuts at my local grocery store, which makes the whole dish tastier and sometimes more budget-friendly.
Here’s a Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches trick I learned from my mom’s kitchen: cut the roast into a few chunks before slow cooking to help flavor and tenderness. Also, if you’re short on time, grab pre-sliced onions or even frozen sliced onions—they freeze wonderfully and save you chopping time!
If you end up with leftover shredded beef or au jus, keep it refrigerated in airtight containers for up to 3 days or freeze portions for quick meals later on. Leftover broth can also double as a base for soups, like my cozy Crockpot Potato Soup—perfect for stretching your ingredients even further.
Don’t forget, while you’re checking out my Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches tips, you might want to peek at some ingredient ideas and shopping pointers in my posts about Crockpot Stuffing and Turkey Crockpot Stuffing for inspiration on side dishes!
Let’s Make This Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Together
Ready to roll up your sleeves and make some unforgettable Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches? I’ll walk you through it step by step—don’t worry if you’re new to slow cooker French dip. Slow cooker beef sandwiches crockpot style come together pretty hands-off, and you’ll love the smell wafting through your kitchen as it cooks.
- Prep the beef: Pat your chuck roast dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This seasoning blend is my secret for that rich, deep flavor in these Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches.
- Sear the roast (optional but recommended): Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides until a nice crust forms. This step adds so much depth. Don’t skip if you have the time! I learned the hard way with Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches that skipping this can make your au jus a little less flavorful.
- Layer the onions: Place the thinly sliced onions at the bottom of your crockpot. They’ll caramelize slowly and add natural sweetness to balance the beefy flavor.
- Add the beef to the crockpot: Nestle your seared roast on top of the onions.
- Pour the liquids: Mix together beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, then pour over the beef. This is the base for your au jus dipping sauce — so important!
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and shreds easily. In my kitchen, Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches usually take about 9 hours to get to that perfect tenderness.
While the Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches is cooking, it’s a great time to prep any sides or set the table. I often use this time to catch up on emails or brew a fresh pot of coffee.
- Finish the sauce: Once the beef is done, remove it and shred with two forks. Strain the cooker juices through a fine mesh sieve into a saucepan. Bring the liquid to a boil and reduce slightly for a thicker au jus dipping sauce.
- Toast the rolls: Butter the hoagie or French rolls and toast them lightly in a skillet or oven for extra crunch and buttery flavor.
- Assemble your sandwiches: Pile the shredded beef on each roll, and serve with a side of warm au jus for dipping.
Your Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches should smell like heaven—the mix of slow-cooked beef, spices, and caramelized onions is the ultimate comfort. I love this recipe because it’s forgiving and perfect for busy schedules, plus it’s a crowd-pleaser every single time.
If you want more ideas on slow cooking techniques or troubleshooting Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches, check out these great resources: House of Nash Eats Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches, Celebrating Sweets French Dip Sandwich, and The Butcher’s Wife Easy Slow Cooker French Dip.
How I Love to Serve This Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches

When it comes to serving my Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches, my family always looks forward to this simple yet satisfying meal. The juicy, slow cooked roast beef sandwiches hit all the right notes with that savory au jus dipping sauce on the side—it’s almost like a little party for your taste buds.
I usually serve these beef sandwiches crockpot style alongside a crispy green salad or some roasted veggies to keep things fresh and balanced. But in cooler months, we’re all about warming up with sides like my Crockpot Potato Soup or even my favorite Crockpot Stuffing. Trust me, those combos elevate the meal without any extra hassle or fancy prep.
This Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches is perfect for weekend family dinners, casual get-togethers, and even game day. I remember last football season, friends kept asking me to make this slow cooker French dip because it’s filling enough but doesn’t tie me to the stove.
For presentation, I like to serve the sandwiches on rustic wooden boards with a ramekin of au jus dipping sauce on the side—it adds a little touch of charm without being fussy. Plus, it’s fun to let everyone dip their own sandwich.
If you happen to have leftover Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches, I have a little trick: shred the meat and toss it into quesadillas or over a baked potato for next-day lunches. I also sometimes mix the saucy beef into pasta or rice bowls for a quick second meal.
I’ve even tried some seasonal variations—adding fresh thyme and rosemary to the au jus during the fall or swapping French rolls for crusty sourdough in the summer. Each twist keeps this easy French dip recipe feeling fresh.
Friends and guests usually can’t get enough of my Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches. They come back for seconds and sometimes even ask for the recipe, which of course I’m always happy to share! It’s become one of those “go-to” classics in my recipe rotation.
Your Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Questions Answered
Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef for Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
Absolutely! While I prefer beef chuck roast for slow cooked roast beef sandwiches because of its tenderness, you can also use a brisket or even a tri-tip. Just keep in mind the cooking times might vary, and tougher cuts will need a longer slow cook to get tender.
Q2: How do I prevent my au jus sauce from being too watery?
Great question! After slow cooking, I strain and simmer the au jus to reduce it until it’s more concentrated and flavorful. You can also whisk in a small cornstarch slurry if you want it slightly thicker. I learned the hard way that just pouring the broth straight from the crockpot can be too thin for perfect dipping.
Q3: Can Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches be made in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes! You can adapt this slow cooker French dip recipe for the Instant Pot by sautéing the beef and onions right in the pot, then pressure cooking for about 60 minutes. Make sure to let the pressure release naturally. Celebrating Sweets has a great Instant Pot version worth checking out!
Q4: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store shredded beef and au jus separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little broth or water if the beef dries out.
Q5: How can I make Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches ahead of time?
I often prep the beef and au jus the day before and refrigerate them separately. The next day, shred the beef and warm everything up before assembling sandwiches. This really comes in handy for busy weeknights.
Q6: Do I really need to sear the roast?
Searing adds a lot of flavor, and I recommend it if you have the time. But if you’re short on minutes, the sandwiches will still be delicious without it—just maybe a little less rich in flavor.
Q7: What sides do you recommend with Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
I love classic sides like coleslaw, steamed green beans, or my cozy Crockpot Potato Soup. For something with a bit more warmth, try pairing with my Crockpot Stuffing or Turkey Crockpot Stuffing. They complement the beef and au jus so well!
As a fellow home cook, I’ve found that patience with slow cooked roast beef sandwiches really pays off. You’ve got this—just take it slow and enjoy the process. If you run into any hiccups, these easy slow cooker French dip tips from The Butcher’s Wife come in handy.
My Final Thoughts on This Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches
This Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches recipe holds such a warm spot in my heart because it brings my family together around the dinner table—not to mention the mouthwatering smells that greet you when you walk in the door. It’s comfort food that feels a little special, thanks to that tender slow cooked roast beef and rich au jus dipping sauce.
My Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Pro Tips:
- Always give your beef a good seasoning rub before cooking to lock in flavor.
- Don’t rush the slow cook! The low and slow method transforms the meat into melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- Reduce your au jus gently to deepen that savory flavor—it’s the magic that ties everything together.
Over the years, I’ve played with variations like adding mushrooms to the crockpot for earthiness or swapping the soy sauce for a splash of red wine to change up the au jus. My husband loves the classic version, while my kids are wild about adding melted Swiss cheese on top before assembling the sandwich.
I really encourage you to make this Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches your own! Play with the flavors, swap sides, and experiment with different breads. Whether you’re making an easy French dip recipe for a weekday meal or a special weekend treat, I hope your kitchen fills with as much joy and good vibes as mine does when I make these slow cooker French dip sandwiches.
If you enjoyed this recipe and want more hearty, family-friendly ideas, don’t miss my posts on Crockpot Potato Soup, Crockpot Stuffing, and especially Turkey Crockpot Stuffing for those cozy seasonal meals.
Thanks for sharing a bit of your kitchen time with me today. I can’t wait for you to savor these Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches as much as my family does. Let’s keep cooking, laughing, and sharing good food when it counts!
If you want to dive deeper into slow cooker French dip techniques, these external sites are fantastic for inspiration:
- Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches – House of Nash Eats
- French Dip Sandwich (Slow Cooker or Instant Pot) – Celebrating Sweets
- Easy Slow Cooker French Dip | The Butcher’s Wife
Let’s keep those slow cooked roast beef sandwiches on repeat!
Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches
These Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches feature tender, slow-cooked roast beef served on toasted rolls with a flavorful au jus perfect for dipping. An effortless, comforting meal ideal for busy days or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- French rolls or hoagie buns, split
- Provolone cheese slices (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season roast with salt and pepper and sear on all sides until browned.
- Place sliced onions and garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the seared roast on top.
- Pour beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce over the meat. Sprinkle thyme and rosemary.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until meat is tender and shreds easily.
- Remove roast and shred with two forks. Return shredded beef to the crockpot and stir into the cooking liquid.
- To prepare sandwiches, toast rolls, layer with shredded beef and cheese if desired, and warm until cheese melts.
- Serve sandwiches with a side of the au jus for dipping.
Notes
For an extra rich au jus, strain the cooking liquid and simmer it on the stove to reduce slightly before serving.

