French Dip Sliders Recipe

If you’re looking for a satisfying and crowd-pleasing dish, French Dip Sliders are a perfect choice. These mini sandwiches are packed with savory flavors, combining tender roast beef, melted provolone cheese, and caramelized onions, all nestled in soft, buttery rolls. Served with a side of rich, flavorful au jus for dipping, these sliders are not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, planning a family dinner, or just craving something comforting, this French Dip Sliders recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients Breakdown

To achieve the perfect French Dip Sliders, each ingredient plays a crucial role. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used to caramelize the onions, bringing out their natural sweetness.
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced: Adds a rich, sweet flavor that complements the roast beef.
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced: Fresh thyme adds a subtle earthy note to the sliders.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the onions and beef.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to balance the dish.
• 12 sweet rolls: Soft and slightly sweet rolls are perfect for these sliders, providing a contrast to the savory beef and cheese.
• 10 slices provolone cheese: Provolone melts beautifully, offering a creamy texture and mild flavor.
• 14 ounces sliced deli roast beef: Thinly sliced roast beef is the star of these sliders, providing a rich and savory flavor.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Used to brush over the rolls for a golden, crispy finish.
• 1 ½ tablespoons dried onion soup mix: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the butter mixture, enhancing the sliders’ taste.
• 1 packet au jus gravy mix: Essential for creating the dipping sauce that makes French Dip Sliders so irresistible.
• 3 cups water: Used to prepare the au jus for dipping.
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation

How to Prepare the Onions for French Dip Sliders

Start by caramelizing the onions, which will serve as a flavorful topping for the sliders. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the thinly sliced onion and stir to coat the slices evenly in butter. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 12-15 minutes. The goal is to achieve soft, golden-brown onions that are rich in flavor without burning them. Once the onions are caramelized to perfection, add the minced thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors, then remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.

Assembling Your French Dip Sliders

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once the sliders are assembled. Take the 12 sweet rolls out of their package, keeping them intact. Using a large knife, carefully slice the rolls horizontally so that you have a top and bottom section. Place the bottom section, cut side up, into an 11×7-inch baking dish.

Now, it’s time to build the sliders. Begin by layering half of the provolone cheese slices evenly across the bottom section of the rolls. Next, add the sliced deli roast beef, making sure to distribute it evenly across the rolls. Spoon the caramelized onions over the beef, spreading them out so that each slider gets a good amount of onion. Finish by adding the remaining provolone cheese slices on top of the onions. Finally, place the top section of the rolls over the cheese, pressing down gently to hold everything together.

How to Prepare the Perfect Au Jus for Dipping

While the sliders are baking, you’ll want to prepare the au jus dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of melted unsalted butter with 1 ½ tablespoons of dried onion soup mix. Stir this mixture well, then brush it generously over the tops of the rolls, ensuring they are evenly coated. This butter mixture will give the sliders a deliciously crispy and flavorful top layer.

Cover the baking dish loosely with foil, making sure the foil doesn’t touch the tops of the rolls, to avoid sticking. Bake the sliders for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rolls to brown and become crispy.

While the sliders are in the oven, prepare the au jus according to the package directions. Typically, you’ll mix the au jus gravy mix with 3 cups of water, bringing it to a simmer until it thickens slightly. This warm, savory sauce will be served on the side for dipping the sliders.

Tips and Tricks for the Best French Dip Sliders

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making French Dip Sliders

1. Rushing the Caramelization Process: Caramelizing onions properly takes time. Be patient and cook them slowly to achieve the perfect golden-brown color and deep flavor.
2. Using the Wrong Cheese: While you can experiment with different cheeses, provolone is ideal for these sliders due to its mild flavor and excellent melting properties.
3. Overcooking the Rolls: Be careful not to overbake the sliders, as this can dry out the bread. Stick to the recommended baking time for soft, yet slightly crispy rolls.

Variations and Swaps for French Dip Sliders

If you’re looking to put your own spin on this recipe, consider these variations:

• Cheese Variations: Swap provolone for Swiss or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Meat Options: Instead of roast beef, try using thinly sliced turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Onion Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of onions, try sautéed mushrooms as a topping.

Serving and Presentation Suggestions

How to Serve French Dip Sliders for Maximum Flavor

Serve these French Dip Sliders hot out of the oven, accompanied by a small bowl of au jus for dipping. The warm, savory au jus enhances the flavor of the beef and cheese, making each bite even more delicious. Garnish the sliders with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added freshness.

Creative Presentation Ideas for French Dip Sliders

For an eye-catching presentation, arrange the sliders on a wooden serving board or a large platter. Place small bowls of au jus around the platter for easy dipping. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top of the rolls before baking for a gourmet touch.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make French Dip Sliders, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• 11×7-inch baking dish
• Small mixing bowl
• Pastry brush
• Aluminum foil

Storage and Leftovers

If you have any leftover French Dip Sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sliders in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but the rolls may become slightly soggy.

Pairings for French Dip Sliders

While these sliders are a meal in themselves, you can pair them with simple side dishes to make a complete meal. Consider serving them with:

• French Fries: Classic and always a hit.
• A Simple Green Salad: Adds freshness and balances the richness of the sliders.
• Coleslaw: Offers a crunchy, tangy contrast to the savory sliders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make French Dip Sliders ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as directed.

Can I freeze French Dip Sliders? Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 1 month. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions.

Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, if you prefer a different type of bread, you can use slider buns, Hawaiian rolls, or even small ciabatta rolls.

Conclusion

French Dip Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic French dip sandwich, offering all the flavors you love in a convenient, bite-sized form. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in, these sliders are sure to impress. Try this recipe and let the delicious flavors speak for themselves. Don’t forget to share your experience with us and subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes!

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