The French Dip Sandwich Melt is a tasty twist on a classic sandwich, featuring juicy slices of roast beef piled high on a soft roll, melted cheese, and a side of savory au jus for dipping. The mix of warm, gooey cheese and tender meat makes every bite comforting and satisfying. It’s a simple meal that feels a little special, perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.
I love making this sandwich when I want something easy but filling. The best part for me is dipping it in the rich au jus—it’s like the sandwich gets an extra boost of flavor and moisture. You can use whatever cheese you like, but a good melting cheese like Swiss or provolone really makes it melt together nicely. Plus, toasting the sandwich just a bit gives it a nice crunch while keeping the inside soft.
When I serve this, I like to add some pickles or a little mustard on the side to cut through the richness and add a fresh punch. It’s one of those meals that brings back memories of cozy family dinners or quick lunches with friends. If you haven’t tried a French Dip Sandwich Melt yet, I definitely recommend giving it a go—you might just find your new favorite sandwich!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef chuck roast or brisket: These cuts are great for slow cooking because they become tender and flavorful. If you want a quicker option, you can use thinly sliced roast beef from the deli, but the slow-cooked version has more depth of flavor.
Beef broth: This adds rich flavor to the au jus and keeps the beef juicy. Low-sodium broth is a good option if you want to control saltiness. You can also boost flavor with a splash of soy sauce or beef bouillon.
French rolls or baguette: Soft rolls with a crusty exterior are best for holding the beef and dipping in au jus. If you can’t find these, sturdy sandwich buns or hoagie rolls work too, just avoid soft bread that gets soggy quickly.
Provolone or Swiss cheese: These cheeses melt smoothly and have mild flavors that complement the beef. You can swap with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar if you prefer a sharper taste.
How Can I Get Tender, Flavorful Beef for the Sandwich?
Cooking the beef slowly and gently is key. Here’s how to do it:
- First, season and sear the roast to lock in flavor and create a nice crust.
- Cook it low and slow with broth, onions, garlic, and herbs. A slow cooker or low simmer on the stovetop works well.
- Cook until the beef easily pulls apart—this usually takes several hours.
- Once shredded, soak the beef back in the cooking juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
This slow cooking method is what makes the sandwich juicy and tender instead of dry or tough.
What’s the Best Way to Melt Cheese & Toast the Rolls?
To get that perfect melt and texture:
- Toast the cut rolls lightly with butter or garlic butter in the oven to add crunch and flavor.
- Fill the rolls with shredded beef, then top with cheese slices.
- Place the open sandwiches under a broiler or in a hot oven just long enough to melt the cheese, about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
This method lets the cheese become gooey while keeping the bread crisp, making each bite satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker or heavy pot with lid – perfect for cooking the beef low and slow until tender.
- Large skillet – for searing the beef to lock in flavor before slow cooking.
- Sharp knife – helps slice the roast and roll neatly without tearing.
- Baking sheet or oven-safe dish – to toast rolls and melt cheese under the broiler.
- Strainer – to remove solids from the au jus for a smooth dipping sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use thinly sliced turkey or chicken breast instead of beef for a lighter sandwich option.
- Add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra sweetness and depth.
- Swap provolone for sharp cheddar or pepper jack to give the sandwich a bold kick.
- Mix in horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard inside the sandwich for a zesty twist.
French Dip Sandwich Melt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Au Jus:
- 1 lb beef chuck roast or brisket
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (for cooking roast and for au jus)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra fresh thyme for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 4 French rolls or baguette sections
- 8 slices provolone cheese or Swiss cheese
- Optional: butter or garlic butter for toasting rolls
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prepare for about 15 minutes of active prep time, plus 3 to 8 hours of cooking time depending on your method. Slow cooker users should plan for 6 to 8 hours to achieve perfectly tender roast, while stovetop cooking takes roughly 3 to 4 hours. Toasting the rolls and melting the cheese adds about 10 minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef roast generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the roast on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once seared, transfer the roast to a slow cooker or a heavy pot if cooking on the stove.
2. Slow Cook the Beef with Flavorful Ingredients:
Add the sliced onions, minced garlic, beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme around the beef. Cover, then cook on low for 6 to 8 hours in a slow cooker, or simmer covered on low heat for 3 to 4 hours on the stovetop. The beef should be very tender and easy to shred when done.
3. Shred the Beef and Prepare Au Jus:
Remove the cooked beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the cooking liquid so it can soak up all those rich flavors. Next, strain the cooking liquid to remove the onion and garlic solids, and skim off any fat if you like. Keep the au jus warm for dipping.
4. Toast the Rolls and Assemble Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the French rolls lengthwise. If you want, spread butter or garlic butter on the cut sides and toast them in the oven until golden and slightly crispy—about 5 minutes. Then, fill each roll generously with shredded beef and top with slices of provolone or Swiss cheese.
5. Melt the Cheese and Serve:
Place the open-faced sandwiches under a broiler or in a hot oven just long enough for the cheese to melt, about 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Serve the hot sandwiches with a side bowl of au jus for dipping. Garnish with fresh thyme if you’d like, and enjoy with fries or your favorite sides!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Cooking frozen beef directly will lengthen the cooking time and can result in unevenly cooked meat.
Can I Make the Au Jus Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the au jus a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. If it thickens too much, add a little water or beef broth to loosen it.
What Cheese Works Best for Melting?
Provolone and Swiss are classic choices because they melt smoothly and complement the beef’s flavor. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack work well too if you prefer a milder taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
Wrap leftovers tightly and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to keep the bread from getting soggy, and warm the au jus separately for dipping.