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Easy Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich

5 from 9 votes

Updated: · Published: by

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Servings 6 sandwiches
Prep 15 minutes
Cook 7 hours

This Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich is the ultimate, crave-worthy, easy comfort food made easily in the crockpot. Tender, juicy beef, simmered in a savory au jus broth, piled high on toasted hoagie rolls with melty provolone cheese.

Crockpot French dip recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or feeding a crowd with minimal effort. With simple, real ingredients and no packaged soup mix, you’ll get restaurant-quality flavor right at home.

Slow cooker French dip sandwiches with homemade au jus and provolone cheese"

These Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches deliver amazing flavors with no soup mix, and a simple recipe. The shredded beef is juicy and tender. An easy crockpot dinner recipe that is perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or game day.

For specifics on the recipe, use the table of contents to click on sections of the recipe.

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Why you'll love Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

  • Easy Slow Cooker Dinner: These Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are perfect for easy, no-fuss weeknight meals.
  • Quick Prep: 10 minutes prep is all you need, and the slow cooker does the rest.
  • No Soup Mix: Many recipes use soup mix to make French Dips. We use no processed ingredients for better flavors.
  • Meal Prep and Freezer Meals: This slow-cooker beef dinner is perfect for meal planning and freezer meals.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: These crockpot French dip sandwiches are always a crowd favorite for parties and game day.

Love slow cooker recipes? Try our Slow Cooker Cubano Pork Sandwich, Crockpot Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches, Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken, and Crockpot Corn Chowder.

Ingredients to make Crockpot French Dips

INGREDIENTS WITH TEXT OVERLAY TO MAKE SLOW COOKER FRENCH DIPS.

Main Ingredients with options and variations

  • Chuck Roast: Bottom Round Roast or Rump Roast are the best beef cuts for French Dip Sandwiches.
  • Avocado Oil: If searing the meat, use this oil or any of your favorites, such as canola oil or vegetable oil. Or a combination of unsalted butter and oil can be used for additional flavor.
  • Yellow onion: Onions add rich flavors to the au jus for the sandwiches. White onion or Vidalia onion is also an option for the recipe.
  • Fat-Free Beef Broth: This forms the au jus for the French dip sandwiches. I prefer to use fat-free beef broth.
  • Light Soy Sauce: Adds umami flavor. Low sodium is preferred. Gluten-free option: tamari or liquid amino acids can be used.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the savory richness of the broth.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds tanginess to the au jus, and it is an excellent flavor enhancer. If Dijon is unavailable, feel free to use another mustard you have in the refrigerator.
  • Thyme & Bay Leaf: Classic herbs that elevate the broth.
  • Hoagie Rolls: A thicker hoagie roll is best to stand up to the beef and au jus.
  • Provolone Cheese: Melts beautifully for the perfect sandwich. Swiss cheese is a great alternative.
  • Salted butter, optional: For extra flavor, add salted butter to the bread before placing the bread under the broiler.

Kitchen Tools to Make French Dip Sandwiches in the Slow Cooker

  • Ninja 8-1 Slow Cooker
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Saute Pan, 5-quart
  • Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
  • Meat Shredder

How to make Slow Cooker French Dips

This is an overview of the recipe. The full instructions are below in the recipe card.

A cast iron pan with a seasoned rump roast to sear for slow cooker french dip sandwich.
  1. Generously season the meat.
A cast iron pan a a roast being seared to make Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches.
  1. Sear the meat until golden brown on all sides.
A cast iron pan with sliced onions and beef broth to begin the base of the au jus for french dip beef sandwiches.
  1. Sauté the onions and add the beef stock to pick up any brown bits at the bottom of the pan.
A slow cooker vessel with browned roast, sliced onions, and broth to make French Dip Sandwiches in the crockpot.
  1. Place the browned meat, onions, beef stock, and remaining liquids, Dijon, and herbs in the slow cooker vessel.
A white slow cooker vessel with a rump roast, beef broth, soy, and onions for slow cooker french dip sandwiches.
  1. Slow cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 5 to 6 hours, until the beef is fork-tender. An instant-read thermometer should be used to check the internal temperature of the meat. It should read 165°F.
A white slow cooker vessel with a rump roast, beef broth, soy, and onions slow cooked to make au jus french dip sandwiches in the crockpot.
  1. Shred the meat. Add back into the au jus.
A silver tray wth a hoagie rolls with provolone cheese and shredded beef for slow cooker beef french dip sandwiches
  1. Broil the hoagie rolls with butter and provolone cheese.
A silver tray with french dip sandwiches made in the slow cooker with provolone cheese.
  1. Add the shredded beef to the rolls
A wooden cutting board with hoagie rolls with slow cooker beef dip french sandwiches with provolone cheese
  1. Serve the French dip sandwiches with au jus sauce.

Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Beef Dip Sandwiches

Refrigerator: Store leftover shredded beef and au jus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer Instructions: The cooked meat can be stored in a freezer-friendly container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Make Ahead: This Crockpot French Dip Recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare up to 2 days ahead and keep in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Assemble the sandwiches and serve.

Crockpot shredded french dip beef on hoagie bread with provolone cheese dipped into au jus beef in a white bowl.

Eileen's Tips for the Best Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

  • Cuts of Beef: Tougher cuts of meat, such as the rump roast and bottom round, work best for these easy French Dip sandwiches.
  • Extra Steps to Brown the Beef: Searing the meat before slow cooking adds deep, rich flavor to the au jus—don’t skip this step.
  • Rolls: Toast the rolls with butter and cheese for the best texture and flavor.
  • For extra flavor, skim excess fat from the au jus before serving.

Variations for Crockpot French Dips

Want to change up this recipe?

  • Broth: For a low-sodium option, use fat-free beef broth or low-sodium beef broth.
  • Soy Sauce: The recipe uses low-sodium soy sauce. Gluten-free options would be using Tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
  • Cheese: Other options: Swiss Cheese, Mozzarella cheese, or smoked Gouda.
  • Bread: Hoagie Rolls, Italian bread, or French bread all work well.
  • Gluten-Free: Use Tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Also, use gluten-free rolls.
  • If you prefer using a pressure cooker, try our Instant Pot French Dips

Slow Cooker French Dip FAQs

Is it necessary to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker?

Searing the meat adds amazing flavor to the sandwiches. I recommend taking the extra step by browning the meat.
After the beef is seared, add beef broth to the pan to pick up any brown bits the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
I use the Ninja 8-1 Multicooker , which has a searing function and a slow cooker function, making the whole process easy.

What is the origin of the French Dip Sandwich?

I love food history, and the French Dip origin is no different for me. According to this interesting read, the French Dip originated in California at one of two famous eateries, Coles or Philippe's.

What cut of beef is best for French Dips in the slow cooker?

The most popular beef cuts for French Dips are chuck roast, rump roast, or bottom round roast, as they are all great for shredding and slow cooking. Brisket and Top Round can be used, though top round is very lean and would be better sliced.

What to serve with French Dip Sandwiches

Have a well-balanced meal with any of these delicious side dishes:

A silver tray with shredded beef french dip sandwiches in the slow cooker.

More Slow Cooker Beef Recipes

    This recipe was originally published on March 10, 2018. It has been updated with new photos and slight adjustments to the recipe to improve the user experience and enhance the flavors of the French Dips.

    I love any comments or questions. Please feel free to leave them below.

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    Eileen  xo

    If you click on the number of servings in the recipe card, you can adjust the measurements up or down for the exact number of servings you need.

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    A french dip with melting cheese and shredded beef.
    Eileen Murphy Kelly

    Easy Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich

    5 from 9 votes
    The easiest recipe to make a delicious sandwich with melt in your mouth beef. The beef is served on a hoagie roll with melted provolone cheese and a tasty au jus sauce that adds amazing flavor.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Cook Time 7 hours
    0 minutes
    Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
    Servings: 6 sandwiches
    Course: Main Dish
    Cuisine: American
    Calories: 976
    Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

    Equipment

    Ingredients
     
     

    Instructions
     

    1. Pat 4 pounds boneless chuck roast dry using a paper towel. Set aside.
    2. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder , ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Sprinkle the meat all over with the seasonings. 
    Browning Meat and Onion Option
    1. Method one- most preferred. Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat add 1 Tablespoon avocado oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned meat and brown on all sides. Place the browned beef in the slow cooker.
    2. To the pan, add 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced), saute for about 5 to 7 minutes to soften the onions. Add 14.5 ounce can, low sodium beef broth to the pan and use a wooden spoon to loosen the brown bits at the bottom of the pan. Add the broth and onions to the slow cooker.
    3. Add remaining ingredients to the slow cooker: ¼ cup light soy sauce , 3-4 dashes Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 Bay Leaf, and 3 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
    4. Place the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on high for 5 hours or low for 7 to 8 hours. The meat will be tender and pull apart easily. Shred beef with forks.
    5. To prepare the 6 hoagie rolls hoagies.  Place the broiler on high. Place oven rack on the third rack from the top of the oven.
      Slice rolls in half, lengthwise. I prefer to remove some of the breading inside the hoagie. If adding, divide 2 teaspoons salted butter (softened onto the sliced hoagie halves.
    6. Place one of the 6 slices provolone cheese on each of the top hoagie. Broil for a few seconds to melt the cheese, about 20-30 seconds. Watch closely so the bread and cheese do not burn.
    7. Once the bread is toasted, remove from the oven. Divide the shredded beef on the bottom hoagie. Serve with the au jus sauce. Serve immediately.
    8. Method two- Add everything to the slow cooker without browning the meat.
    No prebrowning of the meat or onions
    1. Add all ingredients except for the sandwich makings of hoage bread and cheese. Follow the slow cooker method and sandwich creating above.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 976kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 104gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 274mgSodium: 1767mgPotassium: 954mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 515IUVitamin C: 3.1mgCalcium: 460mgIron: 18.6mg

    Notes

    Be sure to check the Expert Tips and FAQs above with important tips and questions that can help make a delicious recipe.
    Note 1: Bottom Round Roast or Rump Roast can also be used for this recipe. 
    Note 2: Use your preferred oil to brown the meat. 
    Storage: Leftovers can be stored in a covered airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    Freezer Instructions: The cooked meat can be stored in a freezer-friendly storage bag or container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
    Defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan on the stovetop.
    Don’t forget to shop at the Everyday Eileen store on Amazon.
     
     
    I'm not a registered dietitian, but I strive to provide the most accurate nutritional values. Any nutritional data I provide is an approximation. Actual dietary information can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. 
     

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    If you loved this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below — it helps other find it and means the world to me! — Eileen xo 🍀

                          

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    1. B

      5 stars
      Made this for a gathering and they absolutely LOVED it!!! And the au ju was amazing

      Reply

      • Eileen Murphy Kelly

        I am so happy you enjoyed the recipe. This is a favorite for me and I love to serve this for family gatherings too.

        Reply

    2. Christine

      5 stars
      I love love love french dip sandwiches! I haven't had one in a long time, but have definitely been craving it. Will need to make this, love that it's easy and can be made in the slow cooker!

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        Awesome Christine, I hope you make this recipe soon. It is a keeper

        Reply

    3. Veronika's Kitchen

      5 stars
      Oh yes! My fiance would eat it all! I definitely need to save this recipe to make it later!)

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        Perfect Veronika, I hope your fiance loves it!

        Reply

    4. Sara

      This looks really yummy! I can't wait to try your recipe! I love french dip!

      Reply

    5. Ashley @ Big Flavors from a Tiny Kitchen

      French dips are one of my absolute favorites! I love how much flavor you can get for not much work - just let 'em cook away all day. Searing the meat first really does make the flavor even better. I tend to do mine on round sandwich rolls, but hoagie rolls look like they'd be easier to dip. Yum!

      Reply

    6. Kristina

      5 stars
      Oh my, I miss French dip sandwiches! I rarely see them when eating out here in California, so when I do see it on a menu I have to order it. It looks like I need to start making them myself from home.

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        Kristina, save your money and make your own. These are awesome.

        Reply

    7. Nicoletta @sugarlovespices

      My husband loves to use the slow cooker and would love this slow cooker French dip sandwich! It looks absolutely scrumptious and comforting.

      Reply

    8. Leslie Haasch

      Love a good french dip sandwich, but I've never tried to make it in a slow cooker before!

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        Leslie, a must make in the slow cooker. I hope you try it and enjoy.

        Reply

    9. Veena Azmanov

      5 stars
      I love when I can dunk my bread into something. This looks so yum. Love slow cooked tender beef and you make it look so easy. I'm saving this for later for sure. Can't wait to try.

      Reply

    10. Abby @ WinsteadWandering

      I don't prepare a lot of beef in my slow cooker, but it looks like I need to start! These sandwiches look to-die-for!

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        Abby, you really should start! These are tender beef sandwiches and super easy!

        Reply

    11. Elaine @ Dishes Delish

      5 stars
      I am drooling looking at your delicious French dip sandwiches. And making it in the slow cooker. Holy moly, I want in!! I can't wait to make your delicious recipe!

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        I am so with you Elaine. These are my favorite sandwiches. Complete comfort food

        Reply

    12. Carrie

      5 stars
      I am literally drooling at this recipe, total comfort food and even better it can be made in the slow cooker!

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        I agree Carrie, its my favorite sandwich

        Reply

    13. Analida @ ethnicspoon.com

      5 stars
      Slow cooker tender beef is one of my favorites! I need to make this for my next party and serve with some slider buns! Thanks for sharing and I love the flavors in this!

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        Awesome Analida! I am so glad you enjoy!

        Reply

    14. Tadej

      Beef is one of the best meat that you can cook with. I like your idea of this sendwich, it looks tasty.

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        Thank you Tadej! These are super easy and delish!

        Reply

    15. Patty

      5 stars
      We made these today! Wow, they were delicious and you were right, easy. I did not brown the meat and it was super flavorful. The meat was melt in your mouth delicious!

      Reply

      • Eileen xo

        I am so happy that you enjoyed these as much as my family Patty! I agree, without the sear of the beef, the sandwich is amazing.Full of flavor

        Reply