French Dip Sandwich Recipe: Perfect Au Jus

Why You’ll Love this French Dip Sandwich with Au Jus

Even if you’re not a sandwich expert, you’re going to fall for this French Dip with au jus—it’s like the ultimate comfort food hug.

Imagine juicy beef, tender enough to practically melt, piled high on a soft roll that soaks up all that savory, flavorful broth. The au jus isn’t just for dipping; it’s the secret that transforms a simple sandwich into a feast.

You might wonder, “Why bother with all that broth?” Trust me, dipping each bite adds this rich, mouthwatering moisture that turns every chew into something special.

It’s cozy, satisfying, and just a bit fancy without trying too hard. This isn’t your average sandwich—it’s the kind that makes you pause, smile, and maybe even lick your fingers a little.

What Ingredients are in French Dip Sandwich with Au Jus?

Alright, let’s talk about the magic behind the French Dip sandwich with au jus—the ingredients. It’s a simple list, but each one packs a punch, working together to create that tender, juicy beef and savory broth combo that makes this sandwich worthy of a second (or third) helping.

You’re not just grabbing random stuff from your pantry here; these ingredients are carefully chosen to build flavor depth without fuss. And hey, if you ever wondered what makes the au jus so dang good, it’s all about the broth and those little herbs and spices that sneak in and whisper “yum” with every bite.

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Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs beef roast
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 peppercorns

Now, before you rush out to gather these, a quick heads-up. Using a beef roast means you’re getting real, hearty meat that will shred beautifully after slow cooking—no sad, dry slices here.

The soy sauce might raise an eyebrow for a French Dip, but it’s a sneaky way to boost that umami flavor without drowning everything in salt. Plus, dried herbs like rosemary and thyme are your best friends for that earthy, aromatic vibe.

Don’t skip the bay leaf and peppercorns; they’re the subtle background singers making the broth sing. And if you want to tweak things, maybe add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of onion powder, just remember, the goal is to keep it balanced and let the beef shine.

Simple, flavorful, and a bit comforting, just like a cozy kitchen on a chilly day.

How to Make this French Dip Sandwich with Au Jus

Making a French Dip Sandwich with au jus is surprisingly simple, yet it hits that savory, comforting spot every time. Start with 2 pounds of beef roast—this is your star player. Toss it into a slow cooker with 3 cups of water and 1 cup of light soy sauce, which adds that subtle umami kick.

Then, toss in your seasonings: 1 teaspoon each of dried rosemary, dried thyme, and garlic powder, plus a bay leaf and 3 peppercorns. This combo simmers away for about 5 to 6 hours on low, slowly turning that tough roast into tender, shreddable goodness. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, turning your kitchen into a fragrant haven without any fuss.

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Once the beef is fork-tender and ready to shred, pull it out and set it aside. Now, the magic lies in that broth—it’s your au jus, the flavorful dip that makes this sandwich legendary.

Strain the broth to catch any herbs or peppercorns, then skim off the fat because no one wants greasy dunking juice. The result? A rich, aromatic au jus that’s perfect for dipping.

Pile the shredded beef on your favorite rolls—something sturdy enough to hold up to soaking without falling apart—and serve alongside a small bowl of that glorious broth. Dip, bite, repeat. It’s a simple ritual, but one that turns a sandwich into a cozy meal that feels just right.

Using a premium slow cooker can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the beef, making your French Dip Sandwich even better.

French Dip Sandwich with Au Jus Substitutions and Variations

While the classic French Dip Sandwich with au jus is hard to beat, swapping out ingredients or tweaking the broth can turn this familiar favorite into something fresh and exciting.

Instead of a beef roast, why not try a pork shoulder or even shredded chicken? Each gives a different vibe but still soaks up that rich broth beautifully.

Speaking of broth, adding a splash of red wine or a hint of Worcestershire sauce amps up the flavor without much effort. For herbs, fresh thyme or sage can replace dried rosemary and thyme for a brighter, earthier taste.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, mix in caramelized onions or a touch of horseradish for a zing that wakes up your taste buds.

Small changes, big impact—trust me on this one.

What to Serve with French Dip Sandwich with Au Jus

When it comes to pairing sides with a French Dip Sandwich and its savory au jus, the goal is simple: complement that juicy, tender beef without stealing the spotlight.

Crispy fries or crunchy potato chips are classic go-tos—they add that satisfying crunch and soak up the au jus beautifully. A light side salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, keeping things fresh and balanced.

For something cozy, roasted veggies like carrots or green beans work wonders, bringing subtle sweetness and earthiness. And hey, if you want to get fancy, a creamy coleslaw adds a cool, zesty contrast that’s hard to beat.

Whatever you pick, just remember: the sides should play supporting roles, letting the sandwich and that dreamy dip shine center stage. Simple, tasty, and totally satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Though it might seem simple, nailing a French Dip Sandwich with that perfect au jus takes a bit of patience and a touch of love.

The slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting, turning a tough roast into tender, juicy slices. But don’t rush—letting the broth develop deep flavors with rosemary, thyme, and garlic is key.

Skimming the fat? Essential. No one wants a greasy dip.

When assembling, pile the beef high on a crusty roll and have that au jus ready for dunking. It’s like a cozy, savory hug in sandwich form.