Dinner

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches Recipe

ByLily Cross October 30, 2025October 30, 2025

Introduction

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a deliciously tender and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The beef slow-cooks to juicy perfection, making it easy to shred and pile high on buttery rolls with melted provolone. Dip into the rich au jus for a comforting, savory bite every time.

A close-up of a sandwich held by a woman's hand, showing three main layers: a soft, golden-brown toasted bun with a smooth, slightly crisp surface on the outside; inside the bun, a thick layer of shredded dark brown beef with visible tender fibers and small green herb bits; beneath the sandwich, a white small round cup filled with golden beef broth where the sandwich is being dipped, with one more similar sandwich placed behind on a white plate. In the background, there is a white bowl with fresh green lettuce salad, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 pounds chuck roast (beef roast or rump roast also work, 2.5 to 4 pounds)
1 teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 medium onion, sliced thin (optional)
3 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 medium bay leaf
6 sub style rolls (wider than hot dog buns)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (salted)
6 slices provolone cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray. Trim the beef if needed on a cutting board.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle half the seasoning over the beef and rub evenly. If using onion, place it at the bottom of the slow cooker. Put the beef in the cooker, seasoning side down. Sprinkle the rest of the seasoning on top and rub it in.
Step 3: Pour the beef broth into the slow cooker around the beef. Add Worcestershire sauce over the meat and place the bay leaf in the broth.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours until the beef shreds easily with a fork. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
Step 5: Let the meat rest about 10 minutes, then shred using two forks turned backward.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to broil. Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Slice rolls open and place cut side up on the sheet.
Step 7: Brush both sides of the rolls with melted butter. Cut cheese slices in half and place them on the top halves of each roll.
Step 8: Broil the rolls for 1-2 minutes until cheese melts. Remove from oven, top with shredded beef, and serve with strained broth from the slow cooker for dipping. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the beef broth before cooking.
Use hoagie rolls for larger sandwiches or slider buns for smaller portions.
Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the beef for a richer sandwich.
Swap provolone cheese for Swiss or mozzarella if preferred.

Storage

Store leftover shredded beef and broth separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep rolls and melted cheese sandwiches unassembled for best texture. Reheat beef gently in a saucepan or microwave with some broth to keep it moist. Sandwiches can be assembled and warmed under a broiler or in the oven before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a sandwich held by a woman's hand, showing soft, golden brown toasted bread split open to reveal a thick layer of shredded, juicy, slow-cooked dark brown beef inside. The sandwich is half-dipped into a small white round dish filled with a rich, dark brown broth or sauce. In the background, there is another similar sandwich resting on a white plate, and a white bowl of fresh green and purple salad leaves on a white marbled surface. The textures highlight the softness of the bread and the tender, fibrous meat inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling and tenderness. You can also use beef rump roast or brisket, but adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is tender enough to shred.

How do I make the broth extra flavorful?

Adding Worcestershire sauce, onion, garlic, and herbs to the broth enhances flavor. You can also simmer the broth with beef bones or a splash of red wine before adding to the slow cooker for a richer au jus.