Print

Savory French Dip Sandwich Recipe with Rich Au Jus Easy and Perfect

French dip sandwich - featured image

A quick and easy savory French dip sandwich featuring tender roast beef on toasted French rolls, served with a rich, flavorful au jus made from beef broth, garlic, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style or leftover roast; Boar’s Head recommended)
  • 2 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 French rolls or baguette pieces
  • 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese (optional)
  • Butter, for toasting the bread

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Au Jus: In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid browning.
  2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in 2 cups (480 ml) of beef broth, then stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
  3. Toast the Bread: While the au jus simmers, slice your French rolls or baguettes horizontally, leaving a hinge if you like. Spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and toast the bread, buttered side down, until golden brown and crisp, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  4. Warm the Roast Beef: Using tongs, dip the sliced roast beef briefly into the hot au jus to warm it up. Avoid soaking too long to prevent the bread from getting soggy. Alternatively, heat the beef in the pan for about 1 minute.
  5. Assemble the Sandwich: Place the warmed roast beef onto the toasted bottom halves of the rolls. If adding cheese, layer a slice on top of the beef. Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll.
  6. Serve: Pour the hot au jus into small dipping bowls. Serve immediately, encouraging dipping before each bite.

Notes

If au jus is too salty, add a splash of water or unsalted broth to mellow it. Toasting the bread is recommended for texture contrast. Avoid over-soaking the bread to prevent sogginess. Use thinly sliced roast beef for best results. Simmer au jus gently without boiling to preserve flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: French dip sandwich, au jus, roast beef sandwich, easy dinner, comfort food, savory sandwich