These Delicious French Dip Squares are a fun twist on the classic French dip sandwich. They’re packed with tender roast beef, gooey melted cheese, and a soft, buttery roll base that’s perfect for soaking up that rich, flavorful au jus dipping sauce. You get all the great flavors of a French dip, but in easy-to-eat, bite-sized squares that make sharing a breeze.
I love making these for game day or casual get-togethers because everyone can grab a square and dip it without any mess. The combination of the savory beef and melty cheese on this soft, buttery bread is just so comforting. I usually make sure the beef is sliced thin and fresh, and I like to sprinkle a bit of caramelized onion or a little horseradish on top to kick up the flavor even more.
One of my favorite ways to serve these squares is alongside a small bowl of au jus for dipping, which makes every bite juicy and satisfying. They’re perfect as finger food when you want something that feels special but still casual. Whenever I bring these out, they tend to disappear fast, so I always make a double batch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Biscuit or Dinner Roll Dough: This forms the soft, buttery base and top for the squares. You can use refrigerated biscuit dough for convenience or fresh dinner roll dough if you prefer a fluffier texture.
Roast Beef: Thinly sliced or shredded roast beef works best here. If you can’t find roast beef, thinly sliced deli beef or leftover pot roast are good alternatives.
Provolone Cheese: I love provolone for its mild, creamy melt, but mozzarella or Swiss work well if you want a different flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts nicely.
Butter and Herbs: Butter mixed with garlic powder, thyme, and oregano creates a golden, flavorful crust. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried ones do the trick just fine.
Au Jus Dipping Sauce: Beef broth and consommé provide richness; the optional red wine adds depth. No wine? Just skip it—your au jus will still be tasty. Worcestershire sauce boosts umami flavor.
How Do I Get a Perfect Golden Crust on Top?
Getting a golden, flavorful crust is key to making the squares extra special. Here’s what I do:
- Combine melted butter with garlic powder, dried thyme, and oregano.
- Brush this mixture evenly over the top dough layer before baking—don’t rush this step!
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the crust turns golden and the cheese bubbles, about 25-30 minutes.
This butter-herb mix not only gives a beautiful color but also adds lots of tasty aroma that pairs perfectly with the beef and cheese.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size to fit the dough layers and roast beef evenly for baking.
- Small mixing bowl – to mix the melted butter with herbs and spices for brushing on top.
- Basting brush – helps spread the butter mixture evenly for a golden crust.
- Saucepan – to make the au jus sauce easily on the stove.
- Sharp knife – to cut the baked squares cleanly without squishing the layers.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter twist that still tastes great dipped in au jus.
- Add caramelized onions on top of the beef for a sweet, rich flavor boost that pairs wonderfully with the herbs.
- Try Swiss or mozzarella cheese instead of provolone to change the melting texture and flavor.
- Mix a little horseradish sauce into the beef before layering for a spicy kick that wakes up the dish.
Delicious French Dip Squares
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Squares:
- 1 package (about 12 rolls or 1 loaf) refrigerated biscuit dough or dinner roll dough
- 1 lb roast beef, thinly sliced or shredded
- 10 oz sliced provolone cheese (or mozzarella as an alternative)
- 6 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
For The Au Jus Dipping Sauce:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup beef consommé or beef bouillon
- 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and about 25-30 minutes for baking. Meanwhile, you’ll simmer the au jus dipping sauce for 10-15 minutes. Overall, plan for roughly 45 minutes from start to serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Dough Base:
Take your refrigerated biscuit or roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the baking dish. This will be the soft, buttery crust for the squares.
3. Add Layers:
Spread the roast beef evenly on top of the dough layer. Then, place slices of provolone cheese over the beef, making sure to cover it well for gooey goodness.
4. Top It Off:
If using biscuit dough, you can add another layer of dough on top or cover with foil during baking to help the cheese melt. If using split rolls, place the top half gently over the cheese.
5. Prepare the Topping and Bake:
Mix melted butter with garlic powder, dried thyme, and oregano. Brush this fragrant butter mixture generously over your top dough or roll layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Make the Au Jus Sauce:
While baking, combine beef broth, consommé, red wine (if you like), Worcestershire sauce, garlic and onion powder, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and let reduce slightly over 10-15 minutes to intensify flavors. Keep warm for dipping.
7. Finish and Serve:
Take the squares out of the oven and let them cool a few minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm with bowls of the au jus dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Enjoy your tasty, melty French Dip Squares—perfect for sharing at parties or cozy nights in!
Can I Use Frozen Dough Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw frozen biscuit or roll dough completely in the fridge overnight before using. This ensures even baking and the best texture for your French Dip Squares.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the cheese melty and the bread soft.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the squares and keep them covered in the refrigerator before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve for the best crust and melted cheese.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Provolone Cheese?
Swiss or mozzarella cheese are great substitutes that melt well and complement the roast beef. Feel free to try a combo for extra flavor!
