These French Dip Sliders are super tasty little sandwiches filled with juicy beef and melted cheese. Each slider is perfect for sharing and comes with a side of tasty dipping sauce!
I love making these for game days or casual gatherings because they’re easy to grab and enjoy. Plus, who can resist dipping bread into that warm, flavorful broth? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast or Brisket: Utilize chuck roast for its rich flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find it, a brisket is a good alternative, though it may take a bit longer to cook. For a leaner option, use sirloin but be cautious not to overcook.
Onion: A yellow onion is ideal here for its sweetness. If you prefer a milder taste, use a sweet onion like Vidalia or a shallot. Red onions can work if you enjoy a stronger flavor.
Cheese: Provolone adds a great melt and flavor. If you want something sharper, go for aged cheddar. For a milder taste, Swiss works well too. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free option.
Slider Buns: You can use store-bought slider buns for ease. If you’re looking for something healthier, whole grain or gluten-free buns are great substitutes!
How Do I Ensure My Beef is Tender and Flavored Perfectly?
The key to tender, flavorful beef is the cooking process. Start by searing the meat on all sides; this locks in the juices. Cooking it slowly, either on the stove or in the oven, ensures the collagen breaks down, resulting in easy-to-shred meat.
- Season your beef well with salt and pepper before searing to enhance its flavor.
- Don’t rush the braising. Let it cook low and slow for the best texture.
- Add onions and garlic with the beef to infuse flavor throughout.
- Make sure to save the braising liquid as it makes a perfect dipping sauce!
These tips will help you create delicious sliders that everyone will love! Enjoy making your French Dip Sliders.
French Dip Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 pound beef chuck roast or brisket
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or small rolls
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese, cut in half or shredded
- Butter, for brushing slider tops (optional)
- Chopped parsley or dried herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and about 2.5 to 3 hours for the beef to cook and become tender. After that, around 15 minutes to assemble and bake the sliders. So, grab yourself about 3 to 4 hours to enjoy the flavorful, slow-cooked goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Beef:
Start by generously seasoning your beef roast with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor of your meat during cooking.
2. Sear the Beef:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the beef and sear it on all sides until it’s a nice brown color—this should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Browning adds wonderful flavor to the meat and the dish!
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the sliced onions and minced garlic with the beef. Cook everything together for about 3-5 minutes, until the onions soften and become fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
4. Add Liquids and Herbs:
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle the dried thyme over the mix. Bring it all to a gentle simmer. This will create a rich cooking liquid for your beef.
5. Braising Time:
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the beef braise for about 2.5 to 3 hours, until it’s very tender and easily shredded. If you prefer, you can also put it in a 300°F (150°C) oven covered for the same amount of time.
6. Shred the Beef:
Once cooked, carefully remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks while it’s warm. Set it aside to keep warm while you prepare the sliders.
7. Prepare the Jus:
Strain the cooking liquid to remove any solid bits, keeping the delicious gravy—this is your warm jus for dipping!
8. Preheat the Oven:
While you prepare the sliders, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. Pile the shredded beef evenly on each bun bottom and top each with a half slice of provolone or Swiss cheese.
10. Bake the Sliders:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the assembled sliders in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and gooey. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
11. Final Touch:
If you’d like, brush the tops of your slider buns with melted butter and sprinkle on some herbs or parsley for a little extra flair. Then, place the tops of the sliders on each.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the sliders hot and don’t forget that warm beef jus for dipping on the side. These sliders are perfect for sharing and make a marvelous addition to any gathering!
Enjoy these tender, juicy French Dip Sliders—ideal for casual meals or party snacks!
Can I Use Leftover Roast Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover roast beef, just shred it and skip the braising step. Just warm it up in the beef broth, and then assemble your sliders with melted cheese. You’ll save time and still enjoy delicious sliders!
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you’re out of beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different. For a deeper flavor, you can mix in a bit of soy sauce or some Worcestershire sauce.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. The jus can be stored separately for dipping!
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the meat and the jus ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just assemble and bake the sliders when you’re ready to serve. They’re great for meal prep or for making ahead for gatherings!