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If you're looking to elevate your meal game, Instant Pot French Dip sandwiches are a fantastic choice. With their juicy, tender beef and rich au jus, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or any gathering. From classic flavors to exciting twists, you'll find options to please any palate. Ready to explore these mouthwatering variations and discover how to make them yourself? Let's plunge into the delicious details.
Key Takeaways
- Classic Instant Pot French Dip sandwiches feature tender beef, savory flavors, and are served with au jus for a satisfying meal.
- Variations include Italian-style with marinara, spicy options with jalapeños, and BBQ French dip for unique flavor profiles.
- Cooking beef in the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while maintaining tenderness and flavor compared to traditional slow cooking.
- Enhance flavor by marinating beef, adding fresh herbs, or toasting bread before serving for a delicious contrast.
- Leftovers can be stored separately and reheated gently, using au jus to maintain moisture and flavor.
Classic Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches

Classic Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches are a delicious and hearty meal that's perfect for any occasion. This sandwich features tender, flavorful beef that's cooked quickly in the Instant Pot, making it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family.
The combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and a toasty bun makes for a satisfying and mouth-watering experience that everyone will love. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve that classic slow-cooked flavor in a fraction of the time. The pressure cooker locks in moisture and infuses the meat with the rich flavors of broth and seasonings.
Serve these sandwiches with a side of au jus for dipping, and you have a meal that's sure to impress. Let's explore this simple recipe that will have you enjoying French Dip Sandwiches in no time!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- Sliced provolone or Swiss cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper. Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and heat the olive oil. Once hot, sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary, stirring to combine. Return the beef to the pot, secure the lid, and set the Instant Pot to cook on "Manual" for 60 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. Strain the broth to remove any solids, if desired, and reserve it for dipping.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing the shredded beef into the hoagie rolls, topping with cheese if using, and serve hot with the au jus on the side.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth before cooking. You can also customize your sandwiches by adding toppings like sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or even horseradish for an extra kick.
If you have any leftovers, the beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep!
Italian-Style French Dip With Marinara

For a delicious twist on the classic French dip, this Italian-style version combines succulent beef with savory marinara sauce. The Instant Pot makes it easy to achieve tender, flavorful meat in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. Paired with a crusty roll and a side of marinara for dipping, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or game day feast.
This Italian-Style French Dip isn't only quick and convenient but also packed with flavor. The beef is seasoned with Italian herbs and cooked to perfection, letting the marinara sauce soak in and create a delightful taste experience. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can impress your family and friends with this hearty meal that's bursting with Italian flair.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 4 crusty rolls or hoagie buns
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
To prepare the Italian-Style French Dip, start by seasoning the beef chuck roast with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add olive oil.
Once heated, sear the beef on all sides until browned, which will enhance its flavor. Remove the beef and deglaze the pot with beef broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the marinara sauce, ensuring it's well coated.
Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then allow for a natural release.
Once the beef is finished cooking, carefully remove it from the pot and shred it with two forks. Serve the shredded beef on crusty rolls, topped with additional marinara sauce and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired. Don't forget to serve the remaining marinara sauce on the side for dipping!
Extra Tips: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sliced bell peppers or onions to the pot while sautéing the beef. You can also substitute the beef chuck roast with a beef brisket for a different texture.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the marinara to simmer on the sauté function after removing the beef. Enjoy your Italian-Style French Dip with a side salad or chips for a complete meal!
Spicy French Dip With Jalapeños

Cooking this dish in your Instant Pot not only saves time but also guarantees the meat is incredibly tender and infused with flavor. The quick pressure cooking method locks in all the juices, making each bite a delicious explosion of taste. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unique take on the beloved French dip!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat if desired)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- Sliced provolone cheese (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until browned. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced onion and jalapeños, cooking until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze it. Return the beef to the pot, seal the lid, and set to "Manual" mode for 60 minutes.
- Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Remove the beef from the pot and shred it with two forks. Strain the broth and return it to the pot. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the shredded beef on hoagie rolls and top with provolone cheese if desired. Ladle the spicy broth into bowls for dipping.
Extra Tips:
For an even spicier kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the broth before cooking.
Also, if you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it into the broth after straining. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your liking.
Enjoy your spicy creation!
BBQ French Dip With Smoky Sauce

The rich flavors of the smoky sauce pair beautifully with the savory beef, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this BBQ French Dip is sure to impress.
Let's explore the ingredients and cooking instructions so you can whip up this delicious dish in no time!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- Optional toppings: sliced onion, pickles, shredded cheese
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the seasoned roast to the Instant Pot and sear it on all sides using the sauté function, which enhances the flavor.
- Once the meat is seared, pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and barbecue sauce.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
- After the pressure has been released, remove the beef and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded beef to the pot to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce for a tangier taste.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the leftover liquid in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Serve the BBQ French Dip with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
French Dip With Caramelized Onions

French Dip With Caramelized Onions is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, combining tender beef with the rich sweetness of caramelized onions for an unforgettable meal. The Instant Pot makes it easy to achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth, while the caramelized onions add depth and a hint of sweetness.
Serve this delightful dish with a side of au jus for dipping, and you have a hearty, satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.
This recipe isn't only quick and convenient but also allows for endless customization. You can use different types of beef, add cheese, or even pile on additional toppings like peppers or mushrooms. The beauty of the Instant Pot is in its versatility, so feel free to make this French Dip your own.
Get ready to enjoy a comforting, savory sandwich that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hoagie rolls
- Provolone cheese (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the sliced onions and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until they're golden brown and caramelized.
Remove the onions and set them aside. Next, season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear it in the Instant Pot for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds flavor and locks in the juices.
After searing, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute before adding the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and the caramelized onions back into the pot.
Lock the lid in place, set the Instant Pot to high pressure, and cook for 60 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Shred the beef with two forks and serve it on hoagie rolls, topped with the extra caramelized onions and provolone cheese, if desired.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your French Dip, consider letting the beef marinate overnight in a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs before cooking. This can deepen the flavor profile even further.
Additionally, if you prefer a thicker au jus, you can thicken the cooking liquid after pressure cooking by setting the Instant Pot to sauté and whisking in a cornstarch slurry. Enjoy your French Dip with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal!
Garlic Herb French Dip for Extra Flavor

Cooking this Garlic Herb French Dip is simple and straightforward. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, ensuring that the beef is perfectly cooked and infused with the delightful garlic and herb mixture. Paired with a warm, crusty roll and a side of au jus for dipping, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hoagie rolls
- Provolone or Swiss cheese (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by seasoning the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
- Add the thyme and rosemary, then return the beef to the pot. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for about 15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
- Remove the beef, shred it, and strain the broth if desired.
- Serve the shredded beef on hoagie rolls with cheese, drizzled with the flavorful broth as au jus.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, let your beef marinate in the garlic and herbs overnight before cooking.
If you prefer a thicker au jus, consider adding a cornstarch slurry to the broth after straining it, cooking it briefly on the sauté setting until it thickens.
Enjoy your Garlic Herb French Dip with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
French Dip With Provolone and Peppers

Ideal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is quick and satisfying. The savory aroma of the beef cooking in the Instant Pot will surely whet your appetite. Serve it with a side of au jus for dipping, and enjoy the comforting and hearty bite of this beloved sandwich.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese
Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil. Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned. Remove the roast and set aside.
- Add the sliced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Return the roast to the pot and pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle with dried thyme.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Remove the roast from the pot and shred it with two forks.
- To assemble the sandwiches, place a generous amount of shredded beef on each hoagie roll, top with sautéed peppers and onions, and layer with slices of provolone cheese. If desired, place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for a couple of minutes to melt the cheese.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the beef in the broth and seasonings overnight before cooking.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add a splash of hot sauce to the au jus for a spicy kick.
If you have leftovers, the beef and peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and reheated for a quick meal later in the week.
Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot French Dip

When it comes to preparing a delicious French dip, both the slow cooker and Instant Pot have their merits. The slow cooker offers a hands-off approach, allowing you to set it and forget it while the flavors meld together over several hours.
On the other hand, the Instant Pot provides the advantage of considerably reduced cooking time while still achieving tender meat and rich flavors. This recipe will guide you through the process of making a mouthwatering French dip using the Instant Pot, ensuring you get that savory beef and delectable au jus in a fraction of the time.
With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy the classic French dip sandwich with the added convenience of quick pressure cooking. The result is a juicy, flavorful beef, perfect for piling high on a crusty roll. Serve it with a side of au jus for dipping, and you have a meal that's sure to impress family and friends alike.
Let's explore the ingredients and cooking instructions for this Instant Pot French dip.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds of beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- Sliced provolone cheese (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up before adding the sliced onion. Sauté the onions until they become translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Remove the onions and garlic from the pot and set them aside. Next, season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear it in the Instant Pot until browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the meat.
Once the beef is browned, return the sautéed onions and garlic to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing.
Select the manual pressure cook option and set the timer for 60 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 10-15 minutes before switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
Remove the beef, shred it with two forks, and serve it on hoagie rolls topped with provolone cheese and a side of the delicious au jus.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight with the broth and seasonings before cooking. Additionally, you can add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers during the sautéing process for extra depth.
If you prefer a thicker au jus, you can thicken it by simmering it on the sauté setting after removing the beef or mixing in a cornstarch slurry. Enjoy your Instant Pot French dip sandwiches with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Tips for Perfectly Tender Beef

Creating a perfectly tender beef for your Instant Pot French Dip is essential to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth experience. The key is to select the right cut of beef and to use the pressure cooking method effectively. Cuts like chuck roast or brisket work wonderfully as they contain sufficient marbling which breaks down during cooking, leading to tender and flavorful meat.
Additionally, the Instant Pot's pressure cooking capabilities help to infuse flavors into the beef while ensuring it remains juicy. To achieve peak tenderness, it's important to allow the beef to marinate, sear it before pressure cooking, and then let it rest after cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to lock in the juices. Following these steps will guarantee that your French Dip sandwiches are satisfying and delicious, making them a hit for any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- French rolls for serving
- Optional: Provolone cheese for topping
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Set your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' mode and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced onion and garlic, sautéing for a few minutes until they're tender. Pour in the beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
Return the seared roast to the pot, ensuring it's submerged in the liquid. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to 'Manual' mode for 60 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure. Remove the roast and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, consider marinating the beef overnight in your favorite seasoning blend or a mixture of beef broth, garlic, and herbs. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to further tenderize the meat.
When serving, you can dip the sandwiches in the flavorful broth for an extra burst of taste. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can thicken the cooking liquid after removing the beef by using a cornstarch slurry. Enjoy your perfectly tender French Dip!
Best Bread Options for French Dip Sandwiches

When it comes to making the perfect French dip sandwich, the choice of bread is essential. The right bread not only holds up against the juicy meats and au jus but also adds its own flavor and texture to the sandwich. For an authentic experience, you want a bread that's sturdy yet soft, allowing it to soak up the flavorful juices without falling apart.
Popular choices include French rolls, hoagie rolls, and even ciabatta, each bringing its unique characteristics to the table.
To elevate your French dip sandwiches, consider using freshly baked bread or artisan options from a local bakery. A crusty exterior with a soft, airy interior will create a delightful contrast as you take your first bite. Additionally, toasting the bread lightly before assembling your sandwich can enhance the overall flavor and texture.
With that in mind, here's a simple recipe to guide you in choosing the best bread options for your next French dip sandwich.
Ingredients:
- 4 French rolls
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4 ciabatta rolls
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for toasting)
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you prefer toasted bread, lightly brush both sides of the rolls with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Toast the rolls in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until they're golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once toasted, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before slicing them open. You can also add fresh herbs or garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor if desired.
Extra Tips:
When selecting your bread, consider the size of your meat portions; you want a roll that can comfortably encase the fillings without overwhelming them.
Additionally, if you're making a large batch of sandwiches, consider wrapping the rolls in foil after toasting to keep them warm and soft until serving. Enjoy experimenting with different types of bread to find your personal favorite for the ultimate French dip experience!
How to Make a Flavorful Au Jus

Making a flavorful au jus is an essential step in preparing a delicious French dip sandwich. This savory sauce enhances the taste of the beef and adds moisture to the sandwich, making each bite a delight. The beauty of this au jus recipe is its simplicity, allowing the rich flavors of the beef to shine through while incorporating aromatic herbs and spices to elevate the overall taste.
To achieve a perfect au jus, using the drippings from the beef cooked in your Instant Pot is key. This method guarantees that you capture all the delicious flavors that have developed during the cooking process. In just a few easy steps, you can create a rich and flavorful dipping sauce that pairs wonderfully with your French dip sandwiches.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- After removing the cooked beef from the Instant Pot, keep the remaining juices in the pot. Turn on the sauté function. Add the beef broth and water to the pot, scraping the bottom to deglaze and release any browned bits, which will add depth of flavor to your au jus.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, and salt. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a few sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the au jus while it simmers.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it in while the sauce is simmering. This will give you a heartier dipping sauce that clings beautifully to your French dip sandwich.
Serving Suggestions for Your French Dip

One popular option is to serve your French dip with a side of crispy, golden fries or onion rings for that perfect crunch.
Alternatively, you can offer a revitalizing coleslaw or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the sandwich.
Don't forget to include a selection of dipping sauces or toppings, such as horseradish sauce, spicy mustard, or even sautéed onions and peppers. These additions can bring a new depth of flavor to your French dip, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Ingredients:
- French rolls or baguettes
- Thinly sliced roast beef
- Beef broth
- Onion (sliced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper
- Optional toppings: horseradish sauce, sliced cheese, sautéed onions and peppers
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the au jus. In your Instant Pot, combine the beef broth, sliced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme or rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir the mixture well, then add the thinly sliced roast beef to the pot, ensuring it's submerged in the broth.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on the "Meat/Stew" setting for about 60 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10-15 minutes before carefully venting any remaining pressure.
- Remove the roast beef from the pot and slice it further if desired. Serve the beef on your choice of rolls, topped with cheese or other optional ingredients, and spoon hot au jus into small bowls for dipping.
Extra Tips:
When preparing your French dip, consider toasting the rolls lightly before assembling the sandwiches. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy from the au jus.
Additionally, if you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of meats, such as brisket or pork, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Remember to keep any leftovers stored in the au jus to maintain the moisture and flavor. Enjoy your delicious French dip sandwiches!
Pairing Drinks With French Dip Sandwiches

French dip sandwiches are a savory delight, traditionally made with thinly sliced roast beef, served warm on a crusty roll, and accompanied by a rich, flavorful au jus for dipping.
To elevate this classic dish, pairing it with the right drinks can enhance your dining experience. Whether you prefer a revitalizing beverage or a bold drink that complements the savory notes of the sandwich, choosing the right pairing is essential for a well-rounded meal.
For those who enjoy a beer, a light lager or a hoppy IPA can provide a revitalizing contrast to the richness of the beef. If you lean towards wine, a medium-bodied red, such as a Merlot or Pinot Noir, can beautifully match the flavors of the roast beef and the savory au jus.
Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic option, a homemade ginger ale or a sparkling apple cider can add a delightful zest that pairs wonderfully with the hearty sandwich.
Ingredients
- Light lager or hoppy IPA (beer)
- Medium-bodied red wine (Merlot or Pinot Noir)
- Homemade ginger ale
- Sparkling apple cider
Instructions
- For a beer pairing, simply chill your selected lager or IPA and serve it alongside your prepared French dip sandwiches. The crisp and revitalizing taste of the beer will contrast nicely with the savory flavors of the beef and the richness of the au jus.
- If opting for wine, choose a bottle of Merlot or Pinot Noir and allow it to breathe for about 30 minutes before serving. The light tannins and fruit-forward notes will enhance the flavors of the roast beef while providing a sophisticated touch to your meal.
- For a non-alcoholic option, prepare homemade ginger ale by mixing fresh ginger, sugar, and soda water, or open a bottle of sparkling apple cider. Serve chilled in a glass, and enjoy the bubbly, sweet flavors that complement the savory richness of your French dip sandwich.
Extra Tips
When selecting drinks to pair with your French dip sandwiches, consider the overall flavor profile you desire.
Experiment with different beverages to find your perfect match, and don't hesitate to ask for recommendations at your local wine or beer shop. Additionally, serving drinks in chilled glasses can enhance the revitalization factor, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Storing and Reheating Leftover French Dip

When it comes to reheating, there are a few methods you can use: the microwave, oven, or stovetop. Each method has its pros and cons, but they'll all revive your French dip to a delightful state. The important thing is to reheat everything gently to avoid drying out the meat or making the bread tough.
Ingredients:
- Leftover French dip meat
- Leftover au jus
- Bread rolls
- Sliced cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray or butter (for toasting)
Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you choose to use this method. While the oven is heating, take your leftover French dip meat and au jus out of the refrigerator.
- If you're reheating in the oven, place the meat in a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. For the bread, cut rolls in half, spread a little butter or cooking spray on the insides, and toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes until golden.
- For stovetop reheating, place the meat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of au jus to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. You can toast the bread in a separate pan or under a broiler.
- If using the microwave, place the meat in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until heated through, which should take about 1-2 minutes depending on your microwave's power. Toast your bread separately in a toaster or on a skillet.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, always store your leftover French dip in separate containers to preserve the integrity of the dish.
When reheating, avoid high heat settings as they can dry out the meat and make the bread chewy. If you have extra au jus, consider saving it for dipping to enhance the flavor when you serve your reheated French dip.
Additionally, feel free to add fresh toppings like onions or peppers to give your leftovers a new twist!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Beef for French Dip Sandwiches?
Absolutely, you can use chicken instead of beef for French dip sandwiches! Sure, it might not be the traditional choice, but with the right seasonings and sauce, you'll create a surprisingly delicious twist that'll amaze your taste buds!
What Is the Best Cut of Beef for French Dip?
For the best French dip, you'll want to use cuts like chuck roast or brisket. These cuts become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly, providing that rich taste you're looking for in your sandwich.
Can I Freeze Leftover French Dip?
You've got some leftover French dip, and you're wondering if it's freezer-friendly. Yes, you can freeze it! Just store it in an airtight container, and it'll be ready for a quick meal later.
How Long Will French Dip Sandwiches Last in the Fridge?
French dip sandwiches will last about three to four days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container. Just make sure to keep the meat and bread separate to maintain freshness.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With French Dip Sandwiches?
When you serve French dip sandwiches, consider pairing them with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the rich flavors, adding a delightful crunch and freshness to your meal experience.