The Ultimate French Dip Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Prepare for the ultimate comfort food experience that marries two timeless classics! This French Dip Grilled Cheese recipe takes everything you love about a savory beef dip and tucks it between gooey cheese and crispy bread. Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this unforgettable combination. It’s truly a game-changer for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This French Dip Grilled Cheese

You’ll quickly understand why this sandwich is a new favorite in your rotation.

• Unforgettable Flavor Experience: Imagine rich, savory roast beef, sweet caramelized onions, and melted provolone, all dipped in a robust au jus. This cheesy beef sandwich delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Easy to Make at Home: Forget complicated recipes; this guide simplifies the process so even beginners can achieve gourmet results. You can effortlessly prepare this delicious meal.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Whether it’s a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, this French Dip Grilled Cheese fits perfectly into any meal plan. It’s always a satisfying choice.
• Satisfying and Filling: Packed with protein and cheese, this sandwich offers a substantial and filling meal that will keep you happy for hours. It’s ideal for satisfying big appetites.
• Customizable to Your Taste: Easily adjust the type of cheese, bread, or even add extra ingredients to make this recipe uniquely yours. Make this dip grilled cheese your own creation.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your incredible French Dip Grilled Cheese.

For the Au Jus:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 medium sweet onions, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¾ cup beef broth
• 1 packet Au Jus seasoning mix

For the Sandwiches:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 8 slices of white sandwich bread
• 16 slices provolone cheese
• 16 slices deli roast beef
• Caramelized onions (leftover from the sauce)
• Optional: French fried onions

Notes & Substitutions

You have many options to customize this fantastic sandwich recipe.

• Bread Options: While white sandwich bread works great, experiment with sourdough, rye, or a rustic artisan loaf for different textures and flavors. Each offers a unique base for your gourmet grilled cheese.
• Alternative Cheeses: Provolone melts beautifully, but cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss cheese can also create delicious results. Feel free to mix and match your favorites.
• Roast Beef Alternatives: If you don’t have deli roast beef, consider using leftover shredded pot roast or thinly sliced cooked steak. These can add a homemade touch to your savory melt.
• Homemade Au Jus: For a completely from-scratch approach, simmer beef bones or roasts with aromatics for a rich homemade beef broth. You can then reduce and season it to create your own au jus.

Equipment

You don’t need much specialized equipment to make this delicious French Dip Grilled Cheese.

• Cast iron skillet or griddle: Essential for perfectly golden-brown bread and even cooking.
• Cutting board: For safely slicing your onions and bread.
• Sharp knife: To prepare ingredients with ease and precision.
• Spatula or tongs: For flipping sandwiches and handling hot ingredients.

Instructions

Let’s make some amazing French Dip Grilled Cheese! Follow these easy steps for a perfect savory sandwich.

Prepare the Caramelized Onions and Au Jus:

1. Place a cast iron skillet over high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Once the butter has melted, add sliced onions. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir everything together and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the onions to caramelize slightly.
4. Remove about half of the cooked onions to a plate and set them aside. You will use these delicious caramelized onions when assembling your sandwiches.
5. Reduce the heat to medium. Add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth to the remaining onions in the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Add the Au Jus mix to the skillet. Stir constantly and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
7. Transfer the finished au jus sauce to a small dipping bowl and set it aside, keeping it warm if possible. Wipe the skillet clean so it’s ready for the sandwiches.

Assemble the French Dip Grilled Cheese:

1. Place the clean skillet over medium heat, then add some of the melted butter to the pan.
2. Take each slice of white sandwich bread and spread melted butter evenly on one side only.
3. Lay the bread slices butter-side down on a clean cutting board or work surface.
4. On four of the bread slices (butter-side down), layer two slices of provolone cheese first. Follow this with four slices of deli roast beef, then a generous portion of the reserved caramelized onions. Optionally, add some French fried onions for extra crunch.
5. Place two more slices of provolone cheese on top of the fillings, sealing them in.
6. Complete each sandwich by placing the second slice of bread on top, butter-side up.

Cook the Sandwiches:

1. Carefully transfer the assembled sandwiches to the preheated skillet. Cook them over medium heat, gently pressing down on each sandwich with a spatula. This ensures even browning and helps the cheese melt.
2. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
3. Flip the sandwiches to the other side. Press gently again and continue cooking for about 2 more minutes, or until that side is also golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
4. Repeat the cooking process with any remaining sandwiches, adding more melted butter to the skillet as needed for perfect browning.
5. Serve your hot and fresh French Dip Grilled Cheese sandwiches immediately with the warm au jus dipping sauce and extra French fried onions on the side.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieve the perfect cheesy beef sandwich every time with these helpful hints.

• Low and Slow Heat: Cook your grilled cheese over medium-low heat. This ensures the bread gets a beautiful crisp exterior without burning, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly inside.
• Use a Lid: Place a lid over the skillet for the last minute or two of cooking. The trapped steam helps the cheese melt faster and more evenly, creating that irresistible gooey center.
• Caramelized Onion Importance: Don’t skip the slow caramelization of the onions. Their sweet, savory depth is crucial to the authentic French Dip Grilled Cheese flavor profile. The process of slowly caramelizing onions involves both caramelization and the Maillard reaction, developing complex sweet and savory notes. To understand the science behind perfectly caramelized onions, explore how chemical reactions transform their flavor and texture.
• Adjust Au Jus Seasoning: Taste the au jus before serving. You can always add a pinch more salt, pepper, or a dash of beef bouillon for a richer flavor if desired.
• Prevent Soggy Bread: Make sure your au jus isn’t too thin. A slightly thickened sauce clings better to the sandwich without making it immediately soggy.
• Avoid Overstuffing: While tempting, avoid packing too much roast beef or onions into your sandwich. An overstuffed sandwich is harder to grill evenly and may fall apart.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

Make the most of your delicious French Dip Grilled Cheese with these ideas.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your French Dip sandwich hot off the skillet with a warm bowl of au jus for dipping.
• Crunchy Side: Offer extra French fried onions on the side for an added texture and flavor boost. They complement the sandwich perfectly.
• Pair with Sides: A simple green salad, a cup of creamy tomato soup, or crispy homemade French fries all make excellent accompaniments.

Storage Instructions

• Au Jus Storage: Store leftover au jus separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Sandwich Storage: For best results, it’s ideal to assemble and cook the sandwiches fresh. However, if you must store, wrap cooled, uncooked sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
• Reheating Advice: Reheat a cooked sandwich in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave, which can make it soggy.

Variations

• Different Cheese Combinations: Try a blend of Gruyère and Swiss, or provolone with a sharp white cheddar for a unique flavor.
• Other Deli Meats: Instead of roast beef, consider using pastrami, corned beef, or even smoked turkey for a different twist on this grilled cheese with au jus.
• Add Sautéed Vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach can add extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: A few slices of pickled jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes in the au jus can give your sandwich a spicy kick.

Nutrition

Enjoy this hearty French Dip Grilled Cheese as a satisfying meal. Please note that nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. This dish provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates, making it a fulfilling option. This savory melt is an indulgence worth savoring.

FAQ

Got questions about this delicious French Dip Grilled Cheese? We have answers!

• What is French Dip? A French Dip is a hot sandwich with thinly sliced roast beef on a long white roll, served with a side of beef broth (au jus) for dipping. This recipe combines it with grilled cheese. The fascinating origin story of the French Dip sandwich is a topic of culinary debate, with two Los Angeles restaurants historically claiming its creation. To learn about the origins of the French Dip, explore the intriguing history behind this American classic.
• What’s the best bread to use? While white sandwich bread is simple, sourdough or a crusty artisan bread holds up well to the rich fillings and dipping au jus.
• Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! Swiss, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives that melt beautifully and complement the roast beef.
• How do I prevent a soggy grilled cheese? Toast the bread well before assembling, and make sure your au jus is thick enough so it clings to the sandwich rather than saturating it. Don’t dip for too long.
• Can I make the au jus ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the au jus up to 3-4 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving with your French Dip Grilled Cheese.
• What sides pair well with this sandwich? French fries, a simple green salad, or a cup of creamy tomato soup are classic pairings that complement the rich flavors.

Conclusion

This French Dip Grilled Cheese sandwich truly offers the best of both worlds: the comforting gooeyness of a grilled cheese with the rich, savory depth of a classic French Dip. It’s a satisfying, easy-to-make meal that promises an explosion of flavors in every bite. Don’t wait to try this ultimate cheesy beef sandwich! Make it today and share your delightful creations in the comments below.

The Ultimate French Dip Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

This recipe creates a savory French Dip Grilled Cheese Sandwich, featuring caramelized onions, roast beef, and provolone cheese, served with a rich Au Jus dipping sauce.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 sandwiches

Calories: 700

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 medium sweet onions sliced
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 cup beef broth
• 1 packet Au Jus seasoning mix
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 8 slices white sandwich bread
• 16 slices provolone cheese
• 16 slices deli roast beef
• caramelized onions leftover from the Sauce

Optional

• French fried onions

Equipment

• cast iron skillet
• cutting board
• plate
• bowl

Method

 

Au Jus & Onions

1. Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat, then melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add sliced onions and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally; then add garlic and brown sugar, stirring and cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove half of the cooked onions to a plate for later sandwich assembly.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth to the remaining onions, stir, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir in the Au Jus mix and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Transfer the finished sauce to a bowl and set aside; then wipe the skillet clean.

Assemble & Cook Sandwich

1. Place the skillet over medium heat and add some melted butter.
2. Butter one side of each slice of white sandwich bread.
3. Lay one slice of bread butter-side down on a cutting board.
4. Layer 2 slices of provolone, 4 slices of roast beef, the reserved caramelized onions, optional french fried onions, and 2 more slices of provolone.
5. Top with another bread slice, butter side up.
6. Cook in the skillet or on a griddle, pressing slightly, for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce and french fried onions.

Notes

Serve immediately with the warm Au Jus for the best experience. French fried onions add a great crunch!