Are you ready to take your sandwich game to the next level? This Crock Pot French Dip Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Slow-cooked beef shoulder roast, melting provolone cheese, and a flavorful broth create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple yet mouthwatering recipe is not just easy to make, but it also brings everyone together around the dinner table, making it a perfect family dish. Let’s dive into how to create this hearty sandwich that will have you dreaming about leftovers!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons why this Crock Pot French Dip Sandwich is a must-try for every food lover. First and foremost, the convenience of using a crock pot makes this dish incredibly easy to prepare; simply throw in your ingredients, set it, and forget it! The slow-cooking process enhances the flavors of the tender beef, creating a rich and savory broth that will have you craving more. Plus, it’s highly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Not to mention, each sandwich topped with gooey provolone cheese is a comforting bite that will please both adults and kids alike. If you’re looking for a delicious way to impress your friends at your next gathering or simply want to treat yourself to something delightful, look no further.

Ingredients

1 yellow onion, diced
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
3 pounds beef shoulder roast, fat trimmed
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
8 French bread rolls
16 slices provolone cheese

How To Make Crock Pot French Dip Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef shoulder roast. This will help create a beautifully tender meat without being overly greasy. Season the roast generously with salt and pepper all over, then set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the diced yellow onion until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds extra flavor to the dish, giving your French dip an aromatic foundation.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot

Place the sautéed onions at the bottom of the crock pot. Next, add the beef roast on top. In a bowl, combine the low-sodium beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, minced garlic, and bay leaves, mixing well. Pour this mixture over the beef roast in the crock pot.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to low for about 8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, ensuring a rich and savory broth.

Step 5: Prepare the Rolls and Cheese

About 30 minutes before serving, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the French bread rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Layer two slices of provolone cheese on each roll.

Step 6: Melting the Cheese

Bake the prepared rolls in the oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t brown too much; you want them to have an inviting golden hue.

Step 7: Shred the Beef

Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the beef from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily. Discard the bay leaves and stir the remaining broth in the pot.

Step 8: Assemble Your Sandwich

To assemble, place a generous portion of the shredded beef on the bottom half of each toasted roll. Ladle some of the flavorful broth over the top if desired, then close the sandwich with the other half of the roll. Serve with additional broth on the side for dipping, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Expert Tips

For added flavor, consider searing the beef roast in the skillet before adding it to the crock pot.
Experiment with different cheese varieties like Swiss or cheddar for a delicious twist.
If you prefer a little heat, add sliced jalapeños to your sandwich or some hot sauce to the broth.
This recipe also freezes well, so make a big batch and enjoy leftovers later!

Variations and Customizations

Swap out the beef shoulder roast for a beef chuck roast, which is another tender option.
Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor!
For a lower-carb option, serve the shredded beef over a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles instead of bread.
Try using different types of bread, like ciabatta or hoagie rolls, for a unique sandwich experience.

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftovers, allow the beef and broth to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. The shredded beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Reheat in a saucepan on the stove or in the microwave, and enjoy your delicious French dip sandwiches all over again!

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes! While beef shoulder roast is ideal for its tenderness, cuts like beef chuck roast also work well for this dish.

Is there a vegetarian version of French dip sandwiches?

Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with portobello mushrooms or jackfruit and use vegetable broth for a delicious meat-free sandwich.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just set it in the crock pot in the morning, and you’ll come home to a delicious meal!

What should I serve with Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair perfectly with a simple side salad, crispy fries, or even some crunchy vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

There you have it, a remarkable recipe for Crock Pot French Dip Sandwich that transforms a few simple ingredients into an extraordinary dish. With its robust flavors, tender beef, and stretchy cheese goodness, you’ll be amazed at how effortless it is to create such a satisfying meal right in your crock pot. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this sandwich is guaranteed to impress. So get cooking, indulge in this tempting recipe, and savor every scrumptious bite!

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