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Did you know that 65% of home cooks struggle to find the perfect sides for their French Dip Sandwiches? While the star of the meal—tender roast beef, melted cheese, and crusty bread dunked in savory au jus—steals the spotlight, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience from good to unforgettable. But what truly complements this classic comfort food? Buckle up, because we’re diving into 7 mouthwatering pairings (and even sharing our foolproof French Dip recipe) that’ll make your next meal a hit.
French Dip Sandwiches Recipe: Your Ultimate Guide
Before we explore pairings, let’s nail the basics. Here’s how to craft the perfect French Dip Sandwich at home.
Ingredients List
- 1.5 lbs top sirloin or ribeye roast (trimmed; chuck roast works for slow cooker versions)
- 4 cups beef broth (boost flavor with a splash of red wine)
- 1 onion, sliced (caramelized for sweetness)
- 6 crusty French rolls or baguettes (the sturdier, the better!)
- 8 slices provolone or Swiss cheese (melty goodness!)
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (to taste)
- Optional: Horseradish mayo or caramelized onions for extra zing.
Pro Tip: For French Dip sliders, swap rolls for Hawaiian rolls and roast beef for deli slices!
Timing
- Prep: 15 mins
- Cook: 4-6 hrs (slow cooker) or 2 hrs (oven)
- Total: As little as 2.5 hrs for oven-roasted versions—30% faster than traditional methods!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season & Sear: Rub the roast with spices, then sear in a hot skillet for a caramelized crust.
- Slow Cook: Place meat, onions, and broth in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hrs until fork-tender.
- Shred & Assemble: Slice the beef, pile it on toasted rolls, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly.
- Serve with Au Jus: Strain the cooking liquid for dipping—this is non-negotiable.
7 Perfect Pairings for French Dip Sandwiches
Now, let’s answer the golden question: What goes well with French Dip sliders? These sides balance richness, add texture, and round out your meal.
1. Crispy Garlic Parmesan Fries
Golden fries tossed in garlic butter and Parmesan mirror the sandwich’s savory notes. Pro Tip: Bake them for a lighter twist!
2. Zesty Creamy Coleslaw
The crunch and tang of coleslaw cut through the sandwich’s richness. Add apple slices for sweetness.
3. French Onion Soup
Double down on comfort! This soup shares the au jus’s deep flavors, making it a natural companion.
4. Pickled Vegetables
Quick-pickled cucumbers, carrots, or jalapeños add a bright, acidic contrast.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Charred sprouts with a sweet glaze offer a gourmet touch.
6. Sweet Potato Wedges
A healthier alternative to fries, dusted with smoked paprika.
7. Classic Caesar Salad
Crispy romaine and Parmesan shavings keep the meal fresh yet indulgent.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 550 per sandwich (without sides)
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 22g
Swap tip: Use low-sodium broth and whole-grain rolls for a healthier twist.
Healthier Alternatives
- Meat: Use lean cuts like eye of round.
- Bread: Opt for whole-grain baguettes.
- Cheese: Try low-fat Swiss or skip it entirely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Soggy Bread: Toast rolls before assembling.
- Bland Au Jus: Boost flavor with Worcestershire sauce or thyme.
- Overcooked Meat: Slow-cook until tender, not dry.
Storing Tips
- Leftovers: Store meat and au jus separately for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Portion cooked beef in broth for quick future meals.
Conclusion
Mastering French Dip Sandwiches is just the start. Pair them with crispy fries, tangy slaw, or soup for a meal that delights. Ready to impress? Whip up this recipe, try our pairings, and share your creations below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more culinary wins.
FAQs
Q: What meat is best for French Dip sliders?
A: Top sirloin or chuck roast (for slow cooking). Deli roast beef works for quick sliders!
Q: What cheese goes on a French Dip?
A: Provolone or Swiss—excellent meltability!
Q: Do you put mayo on French Dip?
A: Traditionally, no. But horseradish mayo adds a kick!
Q: Best bread for French Dip?
A: Crusty rolls or baguettes that hold up to dipping.
Q: How to eat French Dip Burgers?
A: Treat them like sandwiches—dunk in au jus between bites!
Q: What’s in French onion dip?
A: Sour cream, mayo, caramelized onions, and spices. Perfect for fries!
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What to Serve With French Dip Sandwiches: 7 Perfect Pairings
Description
Craft the perfect French Dip Sandwich at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Featuring slow-cooked, tender roast beef, melted provolone or Swiss cheese, and crusty French rolls, each bite is enhanced by dipping into a rich, flavorful au jus. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe promises a satisfying and hearty meal.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs top sirloin or ribeye roast (trimmed; chuck roast works for slow cooker versions)
Optional: Horseradish mayo or caramelized onions for extra zing
Instructions
-
Season & Sear: Rub the roast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a hot skillet, sear the meat on all sides until a caramelized crust forms.
-
Slow Cook: Place the seared meat, sliced onions, and beef broth (with optional red wine) into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours until the meat is fork-tender. Alternatively, for oven preparation, place the ingredients in a covered roasting pan and cook at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 2 hours.
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Shred & Assemble: Remove the meat from the cooker or oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. Slice or shred the beef. Split the French rolls, place the meat on the bottom halves, top with cheese slices, and place under a broiler until the cheese melts and bubbles.
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Prepare Au Jus: Strain the cooking liquid to serve as the dipping sauce.
-
Serve: Assemble the sandwiches and serve warm with individual bowls of au jus for dipping.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Protein 35g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
