Delicious French Dip Squares are a fun twist on the classic French dip sandwich. Imagine tender pieces of roast beef layered with melty Swiss cheese and caramelized onions, all baked into warm, soft bread squares. They’re perfect for sharing and have just the right mix of juicy, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite.
I love making these squares when friends come over because they’re easy to eat and always disappear fast. My little trick is to soak the bread slightly with the au jus dipping sauce before baking so every piece stays moist and packed with flavor. Plus, using good quality roast beef and fresh onions makes a big difference, trust me!
Serving these with extra au jus on the side is a must, whether for dunking or drizzling. They’re great for game day, parties, or just a cozy night in. I often find myself sneaking a couple straight from the pan while they’re still warm—the gooey cheese and beefy goodness just can’t wait!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Roast beef: Thinly sliced deli-style roast beef works best for ease, but leftover roast beef from a roast or brisket is great too. It adds tender, juicy flavor. For a lighter option, lean turkey slices can be substituted.
Swiss cheese: This cheese melts wonderfully and has a mild nutty flavor. Gruyère or provolone are good alternatives if you want a slightly different taste but still creamy, melty texture.
Onions: Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth. Use yellow onions for best results. Red onions are an option but will add a sharper flavor.
Crescent roll dough or puff pastry: Crescent dough is easier and softer, while puff pastry gives a flakier, crunchier crust. If you want a heartier base, biscuit dough can be used but the texture will be different.
Au jus / beef broth: The broth is key for moistening the dough and serving alongside for dipping. If you don’t have au jus, a good-quality beef broth works fine. You can add a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
How Can I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions for French Dip Squares?
Caramelizing onions slowly is the secret to bringing out their natural sweetness without burning.
- Use medium heat and cook sliced onions in butter or oil slowly for 10-15 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Patience is the key—the onions become soft, golden, and sweet when done right.
- If you want to speed things up, sprinkle a pinch of salt at the start to help draw out moisture.
- Remove from heat once they have a deep golden color but before they get too dark.
This step adds a rich, tasty base to your French Dip Squares that lifts the entire dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold all the layers and bake evenly.
- Large skillet – great for caramelizing onions gently without burning.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing onions and roast beef easy and precise.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – helps stir onions smoothly while cooking.
- Basting brush – handy for spreading broth or au jus evenly over the dough and cheese.
- Cutting board – keeps your workspace clean and safe when slicing before serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter, milder version.
- Try provolone or gruyère cheese instead of Swiss for a different melt and flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms with the caramelized onions for an earthy touch.
- Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary on top before baking for a hint of herb aroma.
Delicious French Dip Squares
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 package (around 12 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry sheet
For the Filling:
- 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style or leftover roast beef)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz Swiss cheese, sliced or shredded
For Flavor:
- 1 cup beef broth or au jus (for dipping and brushing)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Time You’ll Need:
About 35 minutes total: 10-15 minutes to caramelize the onions, 5 minutes to assemble, and 20-25 minutes to bake. Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting and serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook gently, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes until they turn golden and sweet. Add a pinch of salt and pepper while cooking. Remove from heat when caramelized.
2. Prepare the Base and Layers:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Roll out the crescent roll dough or puff pastry to fit the dish and press it evenly into the bottom, sealing seams.
Brush a thin layer (about 1/4 cup) of beef broth or au jus evenly over the dough. Then spread the roast beef evenly on top. Next, add the caramelized onions and drizzle Worcestershire sauce lightly over the onions.
3. Add Cheese and Bake:
Top everything with the Swiss cheese, covering the surface fully. Sprinkle garlic powder evenly over the cheese and optionally brush lightly with a little more beef broth. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting into squares. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with warmed au jus or beef broth for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry or Crescent Dough for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw it fully in the refrigerator overnight before using. This will make it easier to roll out and help it bake evenly.
How Do I Store Leftover French Dip Squares?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the crust crisp.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the squares but wait to bake them. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
What Can I Use Instead of Swiss Cheese?
Gruyère, provolone, or mozzarella are great substitutes that melt well and complement the beef and onions nicely. Choose based on your flavor preference!