If you’re craving a cozy, savory sandwich that’s perfect for weeknights or game day gatherings, these Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are exactly what you need. They combine tender, flavorful beef cooked low and slow with melty provolone cheese on a crusty hoagie roll, served alongside a rich, warm au jus for dipping. It’s comfort food at its most delicious.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, infusing the meat with flavors from beef broth, Worcestershire, and aromatics. By the time you’re ready to serve, the beef is fall-apart tender and your kitchen smells incredible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, these sandwiches are sure to please.

What Cut of Beef Should I Use for French Dip Sandwiches?

Chuck roast is the gold standard for French dip sandwiches thanks to its marbling and flavor. It becomes incredibly tender after hours in the slow cooker, making it ideal for shredding. You could also use bottom round or brisket if that’s what you have on hand.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

3 pounds chuck roast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
6 hoagie rolls
6 slices provolone cheese

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches Made Easy (1)

How To Make the Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Pat the chuck roast dry and season it with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet, sear the meat on all sides in olive oil until deeply browned.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Place sliced onions and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seared roast on top.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle in thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender enough to shred easily.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

Remove the beef and shred it with two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat and the bay leaf.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Preheat your oven broiler. Layer shredded beef and provolone cheese onto split hoagie rolls. Place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges are toasty.

Step 6: Serve with Au Jus

Ladle the remaining broth (au jus) from the slow cooker into small bowls for dipping. Serve the sandwiches hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Serving and Storing These French Dip Sandwiches

These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh from the oven while the cheese is melted and the bread is warm. Serve them with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or even potato wedges for a heartier meal.

If you have leftovers, store the shredded beef and au jus separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 4 days. Reheat the meat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the beef the day before and store it with the au jus in the fridge. Assemble and broil the sandwiches right before serving.

Can I freeze the shredded beef?

Yes! Freeze the beef (with some of the broth) in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of provolone cheese?

Swiss cheese or mozzarella are great alternatives. For a sharper bite, try white cheddar.

Do I need to sear the beef first?

While optional, searing adds a rich depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still get great results.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for 60 minutes with a natural release. You’ll get tender beef in a fraction of the time.

Want More Sandwich Ideas?

If hearty sandwiches are your thing, you’ll love these flavorful picks:

Buffalo Chicken Calzone for a spicy, cheesy twist.
Grilled Cheese Burrito loaded with comfort.
The Ultimate Taco Casserole if you want bold Tex-Mex flair.
Cajun White Chicken Chili in a bowl for another cozy favorite.
Sausage Rolls Appetizer that doubles as a fun dinner.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when your next sandwich craving hits: Nina Dishes on Pinterest.

And don’t forget to leave a comment! Did you toast your hoagies or go straight from the slow cooker? Any cheese swaps or side pairings you loved?

Let’s share the tasty tips—because everyone deserves a good French dip.

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches Made Easy

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6 sandwiches

Print Recipe

Description

These Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are an effortless way to serve a classic, flavor-packed meal. With tender chuck roast simmered in a savory broth and layered with melty provolone on crusty hoagie rolls, they’re made even better with a side of warm au jus for dipping. Perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or game day gatherings.

Instructions

1. Pat the chuck roast dry and season it with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet, sear the meat on all sides in olive oil until deeply browned.

2. Place sliced onions and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seared roast on top.

3. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender enough to shred.

4. Remove the beef and shred it with two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat and the bay leaf.

5. Preheat your oven broiler. Layer shredded beef and provolone cheese onto split hoagie rolls. Place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and edges are toasted.

6. Serve with reserved broth from the slow cooker as au jus in small bowls for dipping.