Name: Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 490 min
Ingredients: 3 lb tri-tip (This cut of meat doesn’t have a ton of fat and works perfectly for the Au Jus); 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce; 2 cups water; 1/2 tablespoon better than bouillon beef base (or 2 beef bouillon cubes); 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon chives (we used freeze dried that are kept in the fridge since we didn’t have fresh on hand); 1/2 medium yellow onion (sliced)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches. I still remember the first time I had one. It was a chilly winter evening, and I was visiting friends who had prepared this dish. The aroma wafting through the house as the beef cooked low and slow was simply irresistible. As we gathered around the table, the sandwiches were filled with tender, juicy beef and served with a warm, flavorful au jus. Each bite took me back to that cozy feeling of gathering with loved ones on a cold night. Now, I love to recreate this experience in my own kitchen, and trust me, every time I make Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches, it feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
8 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
480 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
500 kcal

Protein:
45 g

Diet:
Keto

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Slow Cooker

Why This Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches Hits Different

Convenience of Slow Cooking

One of the best aspects of Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches is the convenience of slow cooking. You can prep everything in the morning and let your slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day. By the time you’re ready for dinner, the house smells incredible, and you have a delicious meal waiting for you.

Flavorful Au Jus

The au jus sauce is a star in this recipe. With a blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth, it’s rich and savory. Dipping your sandwich into this flavorful liquid takes it to another level, making each bite even more satisfying.

Perfect for Gatherings

This recipe is perfect for gatherings, whether it’s game day or a cozy dinner with friends. Everyone loves a good sandwich, and these French Dip Sandwiches are sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re mess-free, which means less cleanup for you!

Customizable Ingredients

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can play around with the ingredients to make it your own. Whether you opt for different cuts of beef or add your favorite spices, it’s easy to adjust the flavors to suit your taste.

Comfort Food at Its Best

Ultimately, Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are the essence of comfort food. They’re warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. Whenever you’re in need of something delicious and filling, this recipe will not disappoint!

Ingredients to Make Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

These ingredients come together to create a deep, rich flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Each component plays a vital role in building the taste and texture of the Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches. The star, of course, is the tri-tip, which becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. The other ingredients enhance the beef’s natural flavors, creating a delicious filling for the sandwiches.

3 lb tri-tip – This cut of meat is ideal for slow cooking. It’s lean yet flavorful, breaking down beautifully to create tender shreds perfect for your sandwiches.
1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce – Adds umami and depth to the au jus, balancing the flavors perfectly.
2 cups of water – Helps create the base for the au jus and ensures that the meat remains juicy during cooking.
1/2 tablespoon better than bouillon beef base – A flavor booster that intensifies the beefy taste of the sauce.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy, savory note that complements the other ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper – Brings a mild spiciness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a hint of garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
1 tablespoon chives – These fresh herbs brighten the dish, offering a subtle onion flavor.
1/2 medium yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth, cooking down beautifully to meld with the beef.

Step by Step Guide for Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Making Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches is a straightforward process, and I promise it’ll be worth the wait! Here’s how to prepare this delicious meal step by step.

Start by turning your slow cooker to low. This allows it to warm up while you prepare the ingredients.
In a large bowl, add all your ingredients except the tri-tip. This includes the soy sauce, water, better than bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, chives, and sliced onion. Stir everything well to combine.
Next, take your tri-tip and place it gently into the slow cooker. Ensure it’s submerged in the liquid as much as possible. This will help it cook evenly and absorb all those amazing flavors.
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. You want to look for the meat to become fork-tender. When it’s ready, it should easily shred apart when you pull at it with two forks.
Once the meat is tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the tri-tip into bite-sized pieces. The meat should be incredibly juicy and flavorful.
After shredding, return the meat to the slow cooker and cover it again. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. This step allows the shredded meat to soak up even more of the delicious au jus.
When the time is up, drain the liquid from the slow cooker, but make sure to reserve it. You can serve the au jus alongside the sandwiches for dipping.
Now, assemble your sandwiches! Spoon the shredded beef onto your choice of bread, ensuring you load it up with plenty of that juicy meat.
Serve the sandwiches in little bowls with the reserved au jus for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches with friends or family!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Low and Slow: This method allows the flavors to develop beautifully and makes the meat incredibly tender.
Shredding Technique: Use two forks to shred the meat easily. Make sure to shred against the grain for the best texture.
Resting the Meat: Letting the meat sit in the sauce after shredding ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Adjusting the Au Jus: If you want a thicker au jus, consider adding a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking to thicken the liquid.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to personalize your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches, here are some fun tips to try.

Storage: Leftover sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: The shredded beef freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Pairing: These sandwiches are perfect with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing coleslaw for a complete meal.
Adding Vegetables: Feel free to add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.
Different Breads: Experiment with various breads like ciabatta or sourdough for a unique twist on your sandwiches.

Perfect Pairings for Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches, the right sides can elevate your meal even further. Here are some ideas:

Crispy Fries: A classic pairing! The crunch of fries complements the soft, juicy sandwiches.
Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the beef.
Pickles: The tartness of pickles can cut through the richness of the sandwich, adding a bright flavor.
Salads: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the hearty sandwiches.
Occasions: These sandwiches are perfect for game day, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. They’re always a crowd-pleaser!
Seasonal Pairings: In winter, serve these sandwiches with a warm bowl of soup; in summer, pair them with a refreshing garden salad.

FAQ

The best meat for French dip sandwiches is typically beef, with cuts like tri-tip, chuck roast, or brisket being popular choices. These cuts become incredibly tender when slow-cooked, making them perfect for shredding.

When selecting your meat, look for cuts that have a good balance of fat to ensure flavor and moisture. A trimmed tri-tip is an excellent choice as it has a robust beefy flavor and shreds beautifully after cooking. Remember to let the meat soak in the au jus after shredding for the best taste!

Absolutely! One of the great things about Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches is that they can be made ahead of time. You can prepare everything in the morning and let it cook throughout the day. This makes it an ideal meal for busy evenings.

If you plan to serve them later, simply shred the meat and store it in the refrigerator with the au jus. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat everything in the slow cooker on low until warmed through. This ensures you have a delicious, hassle-free meal ready to go!

Serving Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches is simple and fun! Once the beef is shredded and soaking in the au jus, take your favorite type of bread—like hoagie rolls or baguettes—and load them up with the flavorful meat.

Don’t forget to provide small bowls of the au jus for dipping! This enhances the experience as you dip each bite of sandwich into the warm, savory sauce. You can also add toppings like cheese or sautéed onions if you like!

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches. After shredding the beef, you can store it in an airtight container with some of the au jus for moisture. When properly stored, the beef can last in the freezer for up to three months.

To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a pan on the stove or in the microwave. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your sandwich even later!

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a true comfort food classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With tender beef and rich au jus, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to try making these sandwiches yourself; once you do, you’ll never want to go back. Gather your ingredients and enjoy a delightful meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!