These French Dip Sliders are a fun twist on the classic sandwich! Juicy roast beef is tucked inside soft rolls and paired with a flavorful dipping sauce that makes each bite extra tasty.
They’re perfect for parties or game days, and who can resist dipping? I love serving them with a side of crispy fries for that ultimate treat! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Beef chuck roast is my go-to for these sliders since it becomes super tender after slow cooking. If you’re in a pinch, brisket works too. For a lighter option, try a rotisserie chicken or shredded pork!
Onion: A small onion adds flavor, but if you want a sweeter touch, you can use a sweet onion, like Vidalia. For a milder taste, consider using shallots.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but fresh thyme gives a brighter flavor. Just remember to use three times more fresh than dried. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary is a great substitute.
Cheese: Provolone and Swiss are classic choices, but feel free to switch it up! Pepper jack for some kick or mozzarella for a milder taste can work beautifully too.
How Do I Shred Beef Perfectly?
Shredding beef can seem tricky, but it’s really all about the right technique. After cooking, let the beef cool for a few minutes. Use two forks to pull apart the meat gently. It should come apart easily if it’s cooked long enough. If you find it tough, it may need more cooking time—don’t be afraid to let it go longer!
- Start by removing the beef from the liquid carefully.
- Use one fork to hold the chunk steady and the other to shred it in the opposite direction.
- Work in smaller sections to keep control of the texture.
How to Make French Dip Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb beef chuck roast or brisket
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sliders:
- 8 small slider buns or dinner rolls
- 8 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for toasting buns)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 7-8 hours in a slow cooker or 60-75 minutes in a pressure cooker. After that, you only need about 10 more minutes to assemble and toast the sliders. Total time can vary, but you’ll want to plan ahead a bit!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by placing the beef roast into your slow cooker or pressure cooker. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low for 7-8 hours. If you need it faster, cook it on high pressure in your pressure cooker for 60-75 minutes until the beef is super tender and easy to shred.
2. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, carefully take it out of the cooking liquid. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to save that delicious cooking liquid for your dipping sauce!
3. Prepare the Au Jus:
Strain the cooking liquid to remove any solids, then keep it warm in a small pot or bowl. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you’d like. This will be your lovely dipping sauce.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half and lay the bottom halves on a baking sheet. Generously pile the shredded beef on top of each bun, and then add a slice of cheese on each one.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and let it bake for about 5-7 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and the buns are warm. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells amazing!
6. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, spread olive oil or butter on the top halves of the buns. Toast these in a skillet or in the oven until they turn golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
7. Serve:
Finally, place the top buns on the assembled sliders and serve them right away with a bowl of warm au jus for dipping. Enjoy your glorious homemade French Dip Sliders filled with savory beef, melted cheese, and that rich dipping sauce!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use brisket, short ribs, or even round steak. Just ensure whatever cut you choose has enough fat to keep it juicy during cooking.
Can I Prepare the Beef Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can cook the beef in advance! Once it’s shredded and cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the au jus to keep it moist before assembling the sliders.
What Can I Use Instead of Provolone or Swiss Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of provolone or Swiss, you can substitute with any cheese you prefer! Pepper jack offers a nice kick, while mozzarella provides a milder taste. Just make sure it melts well!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, separate the beef from the buns to prevent sogginess, and warm the beef in the au jus before assembling again. The buns can be toasted lightly for freshness.
