French Dip Sliders
French Dip Sliders are little sandwiches packed with juicy, tender roast beef and melted cheese, all tucked into soft mini buns. The best part? They come with a rich, flavorful…
Tip: save now, cook later.French Dip Sliders are little sandwiches packed with juicy, tender roast beef and melted cheese, all tucked into soft mini buns. The best part? They come with a rich, flavorful au jus sauce perfect for dipping every bite. These sliders combine the taste of a classic French dip sandwich but in a fun, bite-sized form that’s great for sharing or snacking.
I love making these sliders whenever I want something easy but still special. The roast beef stays juicy, and dipping them into the warm au jus makes each mouthful extra tasty. I usually add a little horseradish sauce on the side for a bit of a kick, which is something I think really brings the whole thing together.
These sliders are perfect for game days, casual dinners, or just when you want a cozy meal without a lot of fuss. I like serving them with some crisp pickles and simple green salad for a bit of freshness. They always remind me of cozy family gatherings where everyone grabs their own little sandwich and enjoys a relaxed, happy meal together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolls: Soft slider buns are best for these sandwiches. If you can’t find sliders, small dinner rolls or mini brioche buns work well. Just choose something soft but sturdy enough to hold the meat and sauce.
Roast Beef: Thinly sliced deli roast beef is easiest and gives great flavor. Leftover roast beef works too. For a twist, try roast chicken or turkey if you want a lighter option.
Cheese: Provolone melts beautifully here, but Swiss cheese is a great substitute. Both add mild, creamy flavor without overpowering.
Au Jus (Beef Broth): Using quality beef broth or stock is key for a flavorful dip. For a richer taste, simmer broth with a bit of sautéed onion and garlic before serving.
How Do You Make the Perfect Au Jus for Dipping?
Au jus brings everything together—here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with warm beef broth as your base.
- For extra flavor, gently sauté thinly sliced onions in a little butter until soft, then add broth and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper—taste as you go.
- Keep it warm so it’s ready for dipping when sliders come out of the oven.
This simple step turns plain broth into a rich, savory sauce that your sliders will soak up nicely.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size to hold all sliders together for even baking.
- Small mixing bowl – for combining butter and garlic powder to brush on buns.
- Basting brush – helps spread butter mixture evenly on slider tops.
- Small saucepan – ideal for gently warming and simmering the au jus sauce.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing buns and cutting sliders cleanly easier.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef for shredded roast chicken or turkey for a lighter, milder slider.
- Use pepper jack cheese to add a little spicy kick alongside the savory beef.
- Add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms inside the sliders for extra sweetness and depth.
- Mix in a spoonful of horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard for a tangy, zesty spread.
How to Make French Dip Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 slider buns or mini rolls
- 1 ½ pounds roast beef, thinly sliced (prefer deli-style or leftover roast)
- 8 slices provolone cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (optional garnish)
- 1 cup beef broth (for dipping/au jus)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional, for more flavor in au jus)
- Optional: horseradish sauce or mayonnaise for spreading
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 15 minutes to bake, and a few minutes to make the au jus sauce, so plan for roughly 30 minutes total. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Assemble the Sliders:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns horizontally, but keep them connected as a full tray. Place the bottom halves into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer the sliced roast beef evenly on the bottom buns, then add the provolone cheese slices on top. Cover with the top bun halves.
2. Add Flavor and Bake:
Mix the melted butter and garlic powder in a small bowl. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the buns. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sliders are warmed through.
3. Make the Au Jus and Serve:
While the sliders bake, warm the beef broth in a small saucepan. For extra flavor, sauté the sliced onion in a little butter before adding the broth and simmering briefly. Remove the sliders from the oven, sprinkle with parsley flakes if you like, and cut into individual sandwiches. Serve warm with bowls of the hot au jus for dipping, and add horseradish sauce or mayo on the side if you want.
Can I Use Frozen Roast Beef for French Dip Sliders?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the roast beef in the fridge overnight before using. This helps keep the meat tender and easy to slice thinly.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the sliders a few hours ahead and refrigerate them covered. Bake just before serving to keep the buns soft and the cheese melted fresh.
How Should I Store Leftover French Dip Sliders?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave, and warm the au jus separately before dipping.
What Are Good Substitutes for Provolone Cheese?
Swiss cheese is a perfect alternative that melts well and pairs nicely with roast beef. For a different flavor, try mozzarella or pepper jack for a little spice.
