French Dip Sandwiches:
A Warm, Flavorful Classic  

Ever since I first saw French Dip Sandwiches on the Food Network, I knew I had to try them. There's something about thinly sliced beef, warm, flavorful broth, and a toasted French roll that just sounds comforting. Now that we’ve established an official “Sandwich Night”, this recipe was the perfect way to kick things off.

This sandwich isn’t just delicious—it’s simple, quick, and perfect for those nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

The Origins of the French Dip Sandwich

Despite the name, the French Dip sandwich isn’t actually French! It was created in Los Angeles in the early 1900s and has two competing origin stories.

Version 1: Philippe Mathieu, a French immigrant, owned 'Philippe the Original' in LA. One day, while preparing a roast beef sandwich, he accidentally dropped it into the beef pan drippings. The customer loved the result, and the sandwich became a hit.

Version 2: Cole’s Pacific Electric Buffet, another Los Angeles establishment, claims they invented the French Dip when they served a customer with sore gums a softer, dipped sandwich.

Regardless of who made it first, we’re grateful someone did because the French Dip is now a sandwich staple enjoyed far beyond California.

 What Makes a Great French Dip Sandwich?

Like any good sandwich, the French Dip is all about balance.

You need:

• Tender beef – Roast beef is traditional, but braised or slow-cooked cuts work beautifully for extra flavor.  
• Crisp yet chewy bread – French-style rolls or baguettes hold up against the dipping action without turning soggy too fast.  
• Savory dipping broth (au jus) – Beef broth with onions, garlic, and herbs creates the rich, satisfying dip.  
• Melted cheese (optional) – Provolone or Swiss add a creamy touch if you want extra indulgence.
• Onions - Sweet, caramelized depth of flavor 
• Garlic - Bold and aromatic (I used 3 or 4, because we love garlic!) 
• Butter or Margarine - Richness and helps soften the onions 
• Herbs - Thyme, Marjoram, or Oregano - Brings herbal depth to the broth
• Black Pepper - A touch of heat 

---

French Dip Sandwich Recipe

Start to Finish: 30 minutes  

Servings: 4  

Ingredients:

• 1 large onion, sliced into rings
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp butter or margarine
• 1 (14 oz) can beef broth 
• ½ tsp dried thyme, marjoram, or oregano (crushed) 
• ¼ tsp black pepper 
• 12 oz thinly sliced cooked beef
• 4 French-style rolls, split 

Directions:

1. Prepare the dipping broth  

• In a saucepan, cook onion and garlic in hot butter until tender.  
• Stir in broth, thyme, and pepper.  
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.

2. Add the beef  

• Drop the sliced beef into the broth.  
• Return to boiling, then lower heat again. Simmer 5 minutes, just until heated through.

3. Toast the rolls  

• If desired, toast the French-style rolls lightly for added crunch.

4. Assemble & Serve  

• Remove beef slices and onion rings from the broth.  
• Arrange them on the rolls.  
• Serve each sandwich with a dish of the warm broth for dipping. 

---

How to Eat a French Dip Sandwich

There’s no wrong way to eat this sandwich, but if you want the full experience, here’s how:

1. Hold the sandwich firmly—French rolls are sturdy but need a good grip.  

2. Dip, but not too long—a quick dunk gives moisture without making the sandwich mushy.  

3. Bite and enjoy—the warm, savory beef melts into the bread for the perfect texture.

For extra indulgence, try adding melted Provolone, Swiss, or horseradish mayo for more layers of flavor.

Perfect Side Dishes

Pair your French Dip Sandwich with these easy sides:

• Crispy French Fries – Classic and always a winner.  
• Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly sweet contrast to the savory sandwich.  
• Coleslaw – Adds a crunchy, fresh element.  
• Pickles – Bright acidity balances the richness of the beef.  
• Salad – A simple greens mix with vinaigrette is a fresh complement.

Best Drink Pairings

You’ll want a drink that complements the richness of the French Dip:

• Iced tea – A classic, slightly sweet refreshment.  
• Red wine – A dry Cabernet or Merlot pairs beautifully with beef.  
• Cold beer – Try a lager or brown ale for a smooth, rich pairing.  
• Club soda with lime – A light, bubbly alternative.  

Nutritional Estimates (Per Serving):

• Calories - 450 kcal        
• Protein - 35g             
• Carbohydrates - 40g             
• Fat - 15g             
• Saturated Fat - 5g              
• Sodium - 800mg           
• Fiber - 3g

(Note: Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and modifications.)  

Final Notes & Tips

• Short on time? Use pre-cooked deli roast beef to make this in 15 minutes instead of 30!  
• Want a richer broth? Simmer with Worcestershire sauce or a splash of red wine.  
• Looking for a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free rolls or serve it “dip-style” over a baked potato!

Try It & Share Your Thoughts!

After making this sandwich, I have to say—we’re all big fans. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. We don’t eat beef super often, but when we do, this will be our go-to recipe.  

Did you try it? Let us know how it turned out! Maybe you have your own secret ingredient or twist—we’d love to hear about it.

And if you’re looking for more mouthwatering sandwich ideas, check out the rest of the site. Happy dipping!

One of my favorite cookbooks, (one that is or should be in everyone's sandwich cookbook library), is the Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook. I happen to have the 75th Anniversary Limited Edition, which I love, by the way. You can get any version and probably find a similar recipe, of course.

I had to run out and purchase it when my oldest daughter left home and took my old copy. It has tried and true recipes, which I've never known to go wrong – at least in my experience.

French Dip Sandwiches Video

And if you don't want to cook your own beef, get some roast beef from the deli like this recipe from a Betty Crocker cookbook. Quick and easy! Another quick way to cook your roast beef is in the Instant Pot - check out the recipe here. (Link will open in a new window).

A quick word. This page may contain affiliate links. 

Buy Now

A-B	C-D
E-F	G-H
I-J	K-L
M-N	O-P
Q-R	S-T
U-V	W-X
Y-Z