This Easy Crockpot French Dip recipe is all about tender beef slow-cooked in a flavorful broth. The best part? You can set it and forget it!
When it’s done, load that juicy beef onto a soft roll, and dip it in the tasty broth. Perfect for busy days! I love having leftovers for lunch—so good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect because it’s fatty and collagen-rich, making it tender when slow-cooked. You can also use brisket if you prefer a different flavor and texture.
Onion: A large onion helps create a sweet base for your dish. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can leave them out or replace them with shallots for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) instead.
Beef Broth: This gives the dip its beefy flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, choose low-sodium broth or make your own! Vegetable broth also works if you’re short on beef broth.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor. If you need a substitute, a mix of soy sauce with a little vinegar can work in a pinch.
Hoagie Rolls: Soft hoagies hold the beef well. You can also use baguettes or even gluten-free rolls if you’re avoiding gluten.
How Do I Get My Beef Tender and Flavorful?
Getting tender beef comes down to slow cooking and the right cut. Here are some important steps to follow:
- Start by seasoning the beef well with salt and pepper. This enhances the overall flavor.
- Sear the beef: This extra step locks in moisture and creates a delicious crust. Don’t skip this—it’s worth it!
- Cook low and slow: The crockpot does the magic. Let it cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. The longer, the better for tenderness.
- After cooking, let the beef rest for a few minutes before shredding it. This helps retain juices!
Following these steps will ensure your French Dip is full of flavor and the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender!
Easy Crockpot French Dip Recipe With Tender Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
For the Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Broth:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup beef consommé or additional beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Searing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For Serving:
- 6 to 8 hoagie or French rolls
- Provolone or Swiss cheese slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Crockpot French Dip takes about 15-20 minutes to prep, followed by 8-10 hours of cooking time on low or 4-6 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day—you can set it up in the morning and have a delicious meal ready by dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This helps build flavor in every bite!
2. Sear the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef and sear it until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor and makes your beef more delicious.
3. Prepare the Crockpot:
Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. This gives the beef a nice flavor base as it cooks.
4. Add the Beef:
Carefully transfer the seared beef roast on top of the onions and garlic in the crockpot.
5. Mix the Broth:
In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, beef consommé (or extra broth), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Pour this mixture over the beef in the crockpot, covering it well.
6. Cook the Beef:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours. The beef is done when it’s very tender and shreds easily.
7. Shred the Beef:
Once cooked, carefully remove the beef from the crockpot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. It should come apart easily!
8. Prepare the Au Jus:
Strain the cooking liquid (au jus) into a saucepan and keep it warm on low heat. Feel free to adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
9. Assemble the Sandwiches:
To serve, pile the shredded beef onto the hoagie rolls. If you’re using cheese, top the beef with cheese slices and place the rolls in a warm oven until the cheese melts.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the sandwiches with the warm au jus on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful and tender Crockpot French Dip sandwiches!
Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy night in!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot French Dip Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Beef Chuck Roast?
Yes, you can use a frozen beef chuck roast. However, it’s important to fully thaw it before searing. Thaw the meat in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by placing the sealed bag with the roast in a sink filled with cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. You can also make a mixture of water with bouillon cubes for a quick alternative. Just add about 1 tablespoon of beef bouillon for every cup of water to get a similar taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store them for longer, freeze the beef and au jus in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, simply add the ingredients to the crockpot, set it on low, and let it cook throughout the day. It’s a great meal for busy schedules!
