Easy French Dip Sliders

This hearty French Dip Sliders recipe transforms classic sandwich flavors into fun, mini sandwiches that are perfect for feeding a crowd. These sliders feature tender roast beef, caramelized onions, and melty provolone cheese on sweet rolls, all served with savory au jus for dipping.

I first made these sliders for a Sunday football gathering, and they disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Now they're requested at nearly every family gathering we host, especially during the colder months when everyone craves something warm and comforting.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Adds richness to both the caramelized onions and the topping
• Medium onion: Creates a sweet caramelized base that balances the savory beef
• Fresh thyme: Adds an earthy aromatic note that elevates the flavor profile
• Sweet rolls: Hawaiian rolls work perfectly with their slight sweetness
• Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and has the perfect tangy flavor
• Deli roast beef: Choose a high-quality option from your deli counter
• Dried onion soup mix: Creates an incredible savory topping that browns perfectly
• Au jus gravy mix: The secret to the perfect dipping sauce
• Water: For preparing the dipping sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Caramelize the Onions:

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add thinly sliced onions. Cook them slowly for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become soft and golden brown. This slow cooking process releases the natural sugars in the onions, creating rich flavor depth.

Season the Onions:

Add fresh minced thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper to the caramelized onions. The herbs and seasonings will bloom in the residual heat, enhancing their flavors. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Rolls:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Keep the sweet rolls connected and slice them horizontally as one unit to create top and bottom sections. Place the bottom half cut-side up in a baking dish. This keeps assembly neat and efficient.

Layer the Fillings:

Add half the provolone cheese to the bottom layer of rolls, covering completely. Layer the roast beef evenly across the cheese. Spread the caramelized onions over the beef, distributing them evenly. Top with remaining cheese and place the top half of the rolls on the stack.

Add Butter Topping:

Combine melted butter with dried onion soup mix in a small bowl. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls, ensuring even coverage. This creates a flavorful, golden crust during baking.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover the dish loosely with foil, being careful not to let it touch the tops of the rolls. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

Prepare Au Jus:

While the sliders bake, prepare the au jus according to package directions using water. Bring to a simmer and keep warm until ready to serve. The rich, savory dipping sauce enhances every bite.

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The secret to these sliders is definitely the caramelized onions. The first time I made them, I rushed this step and missed out on so much flavor. Taking the extra time to let them slowly caramelize creates a depth that transforms these from ordinary sandwiches into something truly craveable.

Make-Ahead Options

These French Dip Sliders are perfect for meal planning. You can assemble them completely up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed, adding about 5 extra minutes to the covered baking time.

Freezing and Storage

After baking, any leftover sliders can be wrapped individually in foil and frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, place frozen sliders in a 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. The au jus can be frozen separately in airtight containers. For best results, reheat the au jus on the stovetop rather than microwave to maintain its smooth texture.

Customization Ideas

While this recipe is perfect as written, you can create variations to suit different tastes. Try using different meats like sliced turkey or ham. Swap the provolone for Swiss or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. For a more indulgent version, add a thin layer of horseradish cream between the meat and onions. The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for experimenting with your favorite flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair perfectly with a simple green salad or crispy potato chips. For a full meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a cup of tomato soup. The au jus is essential for the authentic French Dip experience, so serve it in small individual ramekins for each person. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any type of slider buns, though sweet rolls are recommended for their flavor and texture.

→ What cheese works best for these sliders?

Provolone is ideal for its creamy texture, though mozzarella can also be used for a similar effect.

→ Can these sliders be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve. Ensure they are covered to prevent drying out.

→ Is the au jus necessary?

No, the au jus is optional but adds a delicious flavor boost to the sliders. Serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders and bake them straight from frozen. Extend the baking time slightly for best results.