Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
The aroma that fills your kitchen when you prepare a Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions is nothing short of heavenly. This dish brings together tender, flavorful beef, perfectly caramelized onions, and that irresistible, savory broth that makes each bite a joy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, this sandwich is a timeless classic that never disappoints. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire!
Why It Deserves a Spot
There’s something incredibly comforting about a Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender. The combination of the rich broth and sweet, caramelized onions creates a symphony of flavors that elevates a simple sandwich into an unforgettable meal. Plus, it’s an easy, hands-off recipe that makes it perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
The Ingredient Lineup
To craft this delectable sandwich, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 to 4 lb beef round roast, trimmed
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dry)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dry)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 to 3 (14.5 oz) cans Swanson’s low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 10 whole peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 large onion, cut into chunks
- 1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced into strips
- 1 large green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced into strips
- Sargento Reduced Fat Provolone or Mozzarella Slices
- Whole wheat baguettes or rolls, cut into 2 oz pieces
Before You Start: Equipment
Make sure you have these kitchen essentials ready before you start cooking:
- Slow Cooker – The heart of this recipe, enabling slow and even cooking.
- Cutting Board – For slicing your veggies and beef.
- Sharp Knife – To make quick work of your ingredients.
- Skillet – For caramelizing the onions to perfection.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure precise measurements for flavor.
Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions — Do This Next
Now, let’s walk through the steps to create your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions.
1. Prepare the Beef Roast
Begin by seasoning the beef round roast with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasonings all over the roast, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
2. Sear the Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, sear the beef roast on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This step adds depth to the flavor.
3. Set Up the Slow Cooker
Transfer the seared roast to your slow cooker. Add in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, whole peppercorns, bay leaf, and the chunked half onion.
4. Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the roast cook for 8-10 hours, or until it’s tender and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Caramelize the Onions
While the beef is cooking, it’s time to prepare the caramelized onions. In the same skillet you used for the beef, add the sliced onions and a sprinkle of kosher salt. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until they are golden brown and soft.
6. Add Peppers
In the last 10 minutes of the onions’ cooking time, toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers. Stir them to combine with the onions and let them cook until they are tender.
7. Shred the Beef
Once the beef has finished cooking, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the broth, mixing well to soak in all the flavors.
8. Assemble the Sandwiches
To serve, slice your whole wheat baguettes or rolls in half. Layer on the shredded beef, top with caramelized onions and bell peppers, and finish with a slice of cheese. If you like, pop the sandwiches under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese.
Variations by Season
Make your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions adaptable to the seasons:
- Spring: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing twist.
- Summer: Incorporate grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for added flavor.
- Fall: Mix in sautéed mushrooms and a hint of nutmeg for a cozy vibe.
- Winter: Use hearty root vegetables like carrots and parsnips for extra warmth.
Missteps & Fixes
Sometimes, even the best of us make mistakes in the kitchen. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:
- Beef is Tough: If the beef isn’t tender, it likely needs more time in the slow cooker. Let it cook longer for better results.
- Too Salty: If your broth is too salty, add a splash of water or low-sodium broth to dilute it.
- Onions Not Caramelizing: If your onions aren’t browning, increase the heat slightly and stir more frequently.
- Bread Gets Soggy: To prevent sogginess, let the beef cool slightly before assembling the sandwiches, and serve immediately.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
For those who love to meal prep, here’s how to make your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions even more convenient:
- Make Ahead: The beef and broth can be cooked a day in advance. Store in the fridge overnight and reheat when ready to serve.
- Freezing: You can freeze the shredded beef in its broth for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover beef and onions in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While a round roast is ideal for this recipe, you can also use chuck roast or brisket for a different flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No worries! You can replicate this recipe in a Dutch oven. Simply follow the same steps, adjusting the cooking time to about 3-4 hours in the oven at 325°F.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While provolone and mozzarella are fantastic options, feel free to swap in Swiss or cheddar for a different taste.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions gluten-free, use gluten-free rolls and ensure your broth and Worcestershire sauce are also gluten-free.
Serve with These
To complete your meal, pair your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions with:
- A fresh side salad for a light accompaniment.
- Crispy baked fries for that classic combo.
- Tangy coleslaw to add a crunchy texture.
- Homemade pickles for a zesty contrast.
Before You Go
The Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions is a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s a meal that friends and family will rave about. Whether you enjoy it for a casual lunch or a hearty dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with loved ones!
Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by seasoning the beef round roast with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasonings all over the roast, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, sear the beef roast on all sides until it’s nicely browned.
- Transfer the seared roast to your slow cooker. Add in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, whole peppercorns, bay leaf, and the chunked half onion.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the roast cook for 8-10 hours.
- While the beef is cooking, caramelize the onions in the same skillet with a sprinkle of kosher salt for about 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
- In the last 10 minutes of cooking the onions, add in the sliced red and green bell peppers and stir.
- Once the beef is done, shred it using two forks and return to the broth.
- Slice your whole wheat baguettes or rolls in half. Layer on the shredded beef, top with caramelized onions and bell peppers, and add a slice of cheese.
Notes
- Feel free to use chuck roast or brisket as alternative cuts of beef.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rolls and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
- Make the beef and broth a day in advance for easy meal prep.
