There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of melted cheese and savory roast beef, and when you take a bite of a French Dip Grilled Cheese, you know you’ve found a true culinary delight. One afternoon, as the clouds rolled in and a chill filled the air, I craved a dish that would wrap me in warmth. That’s when I reached for my favorite sourdough bread and the last of the roast beef in the fridge, paired with some luscious provolone cheese.
This recipe is a playful twist on the classic French dip sandwich but transforms it into a gooey, cheesy masterpiece perfect for weeknight dinners or cold weekends. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a sandwich that’s bound to impress even the pickiest eaters. As you grill it to golden perfection and serve it with a side of rich au jus for dipping, you’ll discover that homemade comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated, making it the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why You'll Love This French Dip Grilled Cheese
- This French Dip Grilled Cheese combines the heartiness of roast beef with the gooey goodness of melted provolone cheese, delivering an unbeatable flavor in every bite.
- With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The sandwich is versatile enough to customize with your favorite bread or additional toppings, allowing you to make it your own.
- Its golden, crispy exterior paired with the warm, savory au jus for dipping makes for an irresistibly appealing presentation that will wow your family and friends.
French Dip Grilled Cheese Ingredients
Let’s gather everything you need to create this mouthwatering French Dip Grilled Cheese!
For the Sandwich
- Thinly sliced roast beef – adds that savory, hearty flavor that makes this sandwich special.
- Provolone cheese – melts beautifully for a rich and creamy texture.
- Unsalted butter – ensures a golden, crispy crust while grilling.
- Sourdough bread – brings a delightful tang and sturdy base to hold all the goodness.
For the Au Jus
- Low-sodium beef broth – forms the flavorful base for your dipping sauce without overwhelming saltiness.
- Worcestershire sauce – adds depth and umami to the au jus.
- Onion powder – infuses a subtle sweetness that complements the beef perfectly.
- Garlic powder – adds aromatic warmth to the dipping sauce.
- Black pepper – brings just the right amount of spice to elevate the flavor.
Get ready to indulge in a homemade comfort that outshines any fast food option!
How to Make French Dip Grilled Cheese
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Prepare the Au Jus: In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix low-sodium beef broth with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Heat until aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
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Sauté the Beef: Add the thinly sliced roast beef to the au jus mixture. Warm it through for 2-3 minutes, letting the beef soak up those delicious flavors.
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Assemble the Sandwich: On one slice of sourdough bread, layer provolone cheese, then add the sautéed roast beef. Top it with another slice of cheese and close it with another piece of bread.
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Grill: In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Grill the sandwich until it’s golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
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Serve: Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy it hot with your flavorful au jus on the side for dipping.
Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze French Dip Grilled Cheese
Room Temperature: Enjoy the French Dip Grilled Cheese immediately after making it for the best flavor and texture. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating might not yield the same crunch, but it will still be delicious!
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the assembled sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat, cooking until heated through and the cheese melts, about 5 minutes per side.
Make Ahead Options
These French Dip Grilled Cheese sandwiches are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the au jus and sauté the roast beef up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate them separately in airtight containers to maintain their flavors. Additionally, you can assemble the sandwiches by layering the cheese and beef between slices of sourdough bread, wrapping them tightly, and storing them for up to 24 hours prior to grilling. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the sandwiches in a skillet until golden brown, and warm the au jus on the stove. This way, you’ll enjoy a flavorful, homemade meal that’s just as delicious with minimal effort!
What to Serve with French Dip Grilled Cheese?
Enjoying a decadent grilled cheese evokes warmth and nostalgia, especially when paired with delightful accompaniments.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The slight sweetness and comforting crunch of these fries create a wonderful contrast to the savory flavors of the sandwich.
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Classic Caesar Salad: Bright greens and creamy dressing provide a refreshing balance that lifts the rich sandwich experience, making every bite feel exciting.
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Roasted Garlic Mushrooms: Earthy, caramelized mushrooms add a savory, umami twist that complements the roast beef, taking your meal to the next level.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of rich tomato soup not only brings back memories of childhood but also perfectly dips alongside each cheesy bite.
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Herbed Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked to crispy perfection, these potato wedges bring a rustic feel that enhances the hearty essence of the French Dip Grilled Cheese.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty brightness of freshly squeezed lemonade is a refreshing palate cleanser that cuts through the sandwich’s richness.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these warm and gooey treats offer a cozy finish, creating a sweet ending to a savory meal worth savoring.
French Dip Grilled Cheese Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these enticing twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add thin slices of jalapeño to the beef for a fiery flavor boost that brings the heat.
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Cheesy Bliss: Swap provolone for a bold cheddar or creamy mozzarella to create a unique cheesy experience!
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Herb-infused: Mix in fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, into the beef before grilling for a burst of freshness.
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Veggie Delight: Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions in between the layers for a delightful veggie twist.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this delightful sandwich accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
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Mustard Magic: Spread a layer of Dijon mustard on the bread before assembling for an extra zesty punch.
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Balsamic Drizzle: Finish it off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving for a sophisticated touch of sweetness.
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Breakfast Twist: Swap roast beef for scrambled eggs and sautéed spinach for a breakfast-style grilled cheese experience.
With these variations, you’re bound to create a version of this comforting classic that resonates with your taste buds!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making your French Dip Grilled Cheese, be sure to use medium-low heat for grilling the sandwich to ensure the cheese melts perfectly without burning the bread.
- A common mistake is overloading the sandwich with beef, which can make it difficult to grill evenly, so stick to the recommended amount.
- To achieve a perfectly crisp crust, spread the butter generously on the outside of the sourdough before grilling for that golden finish.
- Lastly, remember to let the au jus simmer for a few extra minutes to deepen the flavors before serving.
French Dip Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of roast beef is best for this French Dip Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely! When selecting roast beef, look for thinly sliced, tender cuts like top round or bottom round. These options won’t overpower the sandwich and will soak up the flavors of the au jus beautifully. Always choose quality deli meat for the best taste!
How long can I store leftovers of the French Dip Grilled Cheese in the fridge?
Very good question! Store any leftover French Dip Grilled Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze the assembled French Dip Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating in a skillet or toaster oven for that crispy crust.
What should I do if my bread burns while grilling?
A common mistake! To prevent burning, ensure you’re using medium-low heat when grilling. Keep an eye on the sandwich, and if it seems to be browning too quickly, reduce the heat further. Also, use a non-stick pan or add more butter to achieve that perfect golden crust without burning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, consider using gluten-free bread or vegan cheese replacements. Some may need to avoid beef for various reasons; in that case, try using turkey or chicken as alternatives for the meat. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the French Dip Grilled Cheese?
The more the merrier! While provolone is delicious, you can certainly substitute it with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that your cheese melts well to capture that gooey, comforting essence of a grilled cheese sandwich!
French Dip Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Au Jus: In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix low-sodium beef broth with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Heat until aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sauté the Beef: Add the thinly sliced roast beef to the au jus mixture. Warm it through for 2-3 minutes, letting the beef soak up those delicious flavors.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On one slice of sourdough bread, layer provolone cheese, then add the sautéed roast beef. Top it with another slice of cheese and close it with another piece of bread.
- Grill: In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Grill the sandwich until it's golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy it hot with your flavorful au jus on the side for dipping.
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