Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth and savory richness of a well-made French dip sandwich. And when you bring a slow cooker into the mix, the magic happens almost effortlessly. Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are the perfect answer to busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, combining juicy, tender beef with flavorful au jus that soaks into every bite of your sandwich.

This recipe starts with a marbled beef chuck roast, slow-cooked until it’s fall-apart tender in a bath of soy sauce, beef consommé, and cola, enhanced with a blend of savory herbs and spices. The result? Deep, complex flavor with minimal hands-on effort. Served on toasted hoagie buns and topped with melty provolone cheese, these sandwiches become the kind of hearty meal that pleases both picky eaters and foodies alike.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing for game day, or just craving a satisfying sandwich, this recipe delivers on every level. The rich, aromatic beef paired with the dipping sauce makes it an irresistible, comforting classic. And thanks to the slow cooker, it’s practically foolproof.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Just sear, toss in the slow cooker, and walk away — the appliance does all the hard work.
Unbelievable Flavor: The combination of beef consommé, soy sauce, and cola creates a uniquely rich and slightly sweet au jus.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Crowd Pleaser: These sandwiches are a hit at parties, game nights, or family dinners.
Customizable: From the type of cheese to the rolls you use, you can easily tailor this dish to your preferences.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast
Vegetable oil
French rolls or hoagie buns
Provolone cheese
Reduced sodium soy sauce
Coke (not diet)
Beef consommé
Dried minced onions
Beef bouillon
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Dried oregano
Salt
Pepper
Dried thyme
Bay leaf

Variations

Cheese Options

Try Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar instead of provolone for a different cheesy twist.

Bread Swap

Ciabatta, sourdough, or even baguette slices can be used in place of hoagie buns.

Add Veggies

Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted peppers make flavorful additions.

Spicy Kick

Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Low-Sodium

Use low-sodium beef consommé and soy sauce to reduce salt content.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chuck roast on all sides until browned.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Place the roast in the slow cooker. Add soy sauce, Coke, beef consommé, dried onions, bouillon, and all the seasonings including the bay leaf.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–6 hours, until the beef is tender and easy to shred.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

Remove the roast and shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.

Step 5: Toast the Rolls

Lightly toast the hoagie rolls or buns for a few minutes until crispy.

Step 6: Assemble Sandwiches

Place shredded beef onto rolls, top with provolone slices, and let the cheese melt. You can also pop them under the broiler for a melted finish.

Step 7: Serve with Au Jus

Ladle the cooking liquid (strained if preferred) into small bowls and serve alongside the sandwiches for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Searing the meat adds depth of flavor — don’t skip this step.
Use a fat separator or chill the au jus to remove excess grease before serving.
Toasting the bread helps prevent it from getting soggy.
Use freshly sliced provolone for a creamier texture.
Strain the au jus for a smoother dipping experience.

How to Serve

Serve these sandwiches hot with a generous side of au jus for dipping. They pair beautifully with:

Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries
A fresh green salad
Coleslaw or pickles for a tangy contrast
Roasted vegetables for a hearty side
A cold beer or soda for a satisfying meal combo

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover beef and au jus in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Place cooled shredded beef in freezer-safe bags with some of the au jus. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat beef and au jus in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, but chuck roast is best due to its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked.

2. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function to sear, then pressure cook on high for about 60–70 minutes.

3. Is diet Coke okay to use?

It’s not recommended. Diet versions may alter the flavor and don’t tenderize the meat as well.

4. Can I cook it on high in the slow cooker?

Yes, but low and slow gives better texture and flavor.

5. Do I have to use beef consommé?

Beef broth can be substituted, though consommé offers a richer taste.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s even more flavorful the next day.

7. How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

Toast the rolls and serve the au jus on the side for dipping instead of pouring it over the sandwich.

8. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, but avoid watery vegetables like zucchini. Stick with mushrooms or onions.

9. What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

Use a Dutch oven and cook at 300°F for 3–4 hours in the oven.

10. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, any good melting cheese like Swiss or mozzarella will work well.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a hearty, savory, and deeply satisfying meal that anyone can make. With minimal prep and rich flavor from a blend of simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for everything from family dinners to weekend gatherings. Whether you’re dipping into warm au jus or piling high with melted cheese, these sandwiches are sure to become a repeat favorite in your meal rotation.