The French Dip Sandwich Melt is a delicious twist on the classic French dip, featuring tender slices of roast beef piled high on toasted bread with melty cheese all melted to perfection. The sandwich is served with warm, flavorful au jus for dipping, making each bite juicy, cheesy, and comforting.
I love making these sandwiches when I want something hearty but easy. The combination of juicy beef and gooey cheese always feels like the ultimate comfort food. I sometimes add a little horseradish sauce or caramelized onions for an extra kick, but it’s amazing just as it is. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, which makes it a go-to for busy nights.
My favorite way to enjoy the French Dip Sandwich Melt is right out of the oven while the cheese is still warm and stretchy. Dunking it into the savory au jus turns every bite into a perfect mix of textures and flavors. It’s great for sharing with friends or family, especially when you want a cozy meal that feels like a celebration of simple, tasty ingredients.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Roast Beef: Thinly sliced roast beef gives this sandwich its tender, juicy texture. I like using brisket or chuck roast for great flavor. If you can’t find roast beef, leftover roast or deli-style beef works well too.
Bread: Choose sandwich rolls or a fresh French baguette. A crusty outside and soft inside are key to soaking up the au jus without getting mushy. You can try ciabatta or hoagie rolls for a similar effect.
Cheese: Provolone melts beautifully and adds mild creaminess. Swiss cheese is a nice alternative if you prefer a bit nuttier flavor. Avoid sharp cheeses as they could overpower the sandwich.
Caramelized Onions: These bring sweetness and depth. Taking your time to cook them low and slow is worth it. If pressed for time, sautéing until soft and golden works as a quicker option.
Au Jus: Beef broth forms the base. Adding Worcestershire sauce and a splash of white wine or water lifts the flavor. Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness. If you want, beef gravy can be a thicker substitute.
How Do You Perfectly Caramelize Onions for Rich Flavor?
Caramelizing onions slowly unlocks their natural sweetness and adds rich flavor. Here’s how I do it:
- Melt butter over medium heat in a skillet and add thinly sliced onions with a pinch of salt.
- Cook low and slow, stirring every few minutes to prevent burning. This takes about 20-25 minutes.
- You’ll notice the onions soften and turn golden brown. If they stick, add a splash of water to loosen them.
- Once deeply caramelized, remove from heat and add to your sandwich.
Patience here builds great flavor that really elevates the sandwich!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium skillet – perfect for slowly caramelizing the onions without burning them.
- Small saucepan – ideal for warming and reducing the au jus to boost its flavor.
- Baking sheet – use this to broil the sandwiches so the cheese melts evenly.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing the rolls and roast beef easier and neater.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef for thinly sliced turkey or chicken for a lighter, milder sandwich.
- Use Swiss or mozzarella cheese instead of provolone for different melty textures and tastes.
- Add sautéed mushrooms along with the onions to boost umami flavor.
- Spread a little horseradish sauce inside the roll for a spicy kick that pairs well with the beef.
French Dip Sandwich Melt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (preferably cooked tender beef brisket or chuck roast)
- 4 sandwich rolls or French baguette sections
- 8 slices provolone cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Au Jus:
- 2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- ¼ cup dry white wine or water (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook and assemble, including time to caramelize the onions and prepare the au jus. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your sandwich in just around 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown—this usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Once done, set them aside.
2. Make the Au Jus:
In a small saucepan, combine beef broth, white wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 10 minutes to concentrate the flavors. Keep it warm for dipping.
3. Assemble and Melt the Sandwich:
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Slice sandwich rolls or baguette lengthwise, keeping a hinge on one side. Layer the bottom halves with plenty of roast beef, top with caramelized onions, and add two slices of provolone cheese on each. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil for 2-4 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
4. Serve:
Close the sandwiches carefully, pressing them gently together. Serve with warm au jus on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like. Enjoy your cheesy, juicy French Dip Sandwich Melt!
Can I Use Frozen Roast Beef for This Sandwich?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before assembling the sandwich. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture for best results.
Can I Prepare the Onions and Au Jus Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can caramelize the onions and make the au jus a day ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge and reheat gently before assembling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at low temperature to keep the bread from getting too soggy.
What Are Good Cheese Alternatives?
Swiss and mozzarella both melt nicely and complement the beef well. Avoid very sharp cheeses that can overpower the classic flavors of the sandwich.
