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I Finally Nailed Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches Every Single Week

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Weeknight dinners were destroying me. By Thursday I was ordering pizza again because nothing sounded good and I had zero energy to cook. Then I cracked the code on slow cooker French dip sandwiches and suddenly everyone in my house was asking what sm...
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Slow Cookers That Actually Shred Beef Perfectly

I burned through two cheap slow cookers before I figured out that uneven heating was why my roasts came out tough on one side and mush on the other. These are the ones that actually hold temp steady and make the beef fall apart with two forks.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Grab this if you cook for four or more people. I fit a 4-pound chuck roast in here with room for onions and broth. No fancy buttons, just low, high, and warm. It does the one thing it needs to do and does it right.
Crock-Pot Manual 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Mussel Grey
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use the programmable timer so it switches to warm while you're at work. I set it at 7am and come home to beef that shreds if you look at it too hard. Perfect for anyone who forgets to check on dinner.
Hamilton Beach FlexCook 6 Quart Slow Cooker
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Switch to the slow cook setting when you want low and slow, or use pressure cook when you forgot to start it in the morning. Saved my Friday night more than once when I didn't plan ahead.
Customer reviews for Instant Pot 6Qt Duo Plus
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Bring this to potlucks with the locking lid. I hauled shredded French dip meat to a Super Bowl party and people lost their minds. The seal actually holds, no beef juice sloshing in your backseat.
Crock-Pot 6qt Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try this if you're cooking for a crowd or want leftovers for days. I made a double batch of French dip meat and froze half. Giant capacity, but it still fits on my counter without taking over.
Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Keep this one on your radar if you're on a budget. Under thirty bucks and it held steady on low for 8 hours without any hot spots. My first batch in this came out just as tender as my pricier cooker.
Mainstays 6 Quart Oval Slow Cooker, with Stainless Steel
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use this for smaller households. Two of us eat from one 2-pound roast in this and the leftovers make lunch the next day. Compact enough for a small kitchen counter without feeling cramped.
Customer reviews for Crock-Pot® Design Series 7-Quart
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Snag this if you care what your countertop looks like. Sage green, white, or black, and it actually performs. My sister bought it for the color and was shocked that the beef came out perfectly.
Beautiful 6 Qt Programmable Slow Cooker, Rose by Drew
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Toss this in your cart if you just need something reliable and cheap. I bought one for my college-age kid and he texts me photos of his French dip sandwiches now. Simple dial, no learning curve.
Mainstays 6 Quart Oval Slow Cooker, with Stainless Steel

Beef Cuts That Fall Apart With Two Forks

I wasted money on the wrong cuts twice before a butcher told me what actually works in a slow cooker. The wrong roast and you're chewing for ten minutes. The right one and it practically shreds itself.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Grab a 3 to 4 pound chuck roast and you're set. This is the cut that melts in a slow cooker after 8 hours on low. I tried sirloin once and it was like eating a shoe. Never again.
Chuck Boneless Shoulder Roast, Choice Angus Beef
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try the Angus version if you want a little more marbling. More fat running through the meat means more flavor in your au jus. Worth the extra couple bucks, especially when you're dipping bread in that broth.
Chuck Roast, Choice Angus Beef, Tray, Fresh, 2.00 - 2.75 lb
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use this if chuck roast is sold out or you want a leaner option. It needs a full 10 hours on low to get tender, but it works. Slice thin instead of shredding for a different texture.
Great Value Roast Beef Lunchmeat, 7 oz Plastic Tub
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Switch to brisket when you want to impress someone. Longer cook time, around 10 to 12 hours, but the flavor is deeper and smokier. I made this for my in-laws and they still talk about it.
USDA Choice Beef Cuts for Cooking
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Keep this as your backup cut. Similar to chuck roast but sometimes cheaper per pound. Shreds the same way, tastes almost identical in the au jus. Nobody at the table will know the difference.
Chuck Boneless Shoulder Roast, Choice Angus Beef
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Toss this in when you don't want to wait 8 hours. Smaller pieces cook in about 5 to 6 hours on low. Not traditional, but on a Wednesday when time is tight, it gets the job done and still tastes great.
Beef Stew Meat, Tray, Family Pack, Fresh, 1.75 - 2.25 lb
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try bone-in short ribs for the richest au jus you've ever tasted. The bones add body to the broth that chuck roast just can't match. Pull the meat off the bones and pile it on a roll. Life changing on a cold day.
USDA Choice Bone-In Short Ribs - Buy Dino Ribs Online
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Splurge on this for a special occasion. The fat content is unreal and the au jus turns almost silky. I made this for our anniversary dinner and my wife said it was better than any restaurant version she's had.
Marketside Grass-Fed Beef Chuck Roast, 1.5 - 2.5 lb
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use this only if you plan to slice thin rather than shred. It's lean and firm, so treat it more like a deli-style sandwich. Works well if you prefer neat slices over pulled-apart meat.
Choice Eye of Round Roast, 1.5-4.0 lbs.

Broths and Stocks for Rich Au Jus

Plain water in the slow cooker is a crime. The broth you pick is basically half the flavor of the whole sandwich. I tested five different brands before settling on my go-to combo.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour the whole carton over your roast before you set it. This is my baseline every single time. Clean beef flavor without being too salty. I go through two cartons a week during winter.
Swanson 100% Natural Beef Broth, 32 oz Carton
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Swap this in when you want a deeper, more homemade-tasting au jus. It's richer than regular broth and has less sodium. My neighbor who's a chef uses this one exclusively and I trust his palate.
Kitchen Basics Stock Beef Unsalted, 32 Fl Oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Keep a jar of this in your fridge at all times. One teaspoon in the slow cooker with water and you've got instant concentrated beef flavor. Lasts forever and takes up zero pantry space.
Better Than Bouillon Premium Roasted Beef Base
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try the bone broth version for a thicker, more gelatinous au jus that coats the bread instead of just soaking through it. The collagen makes a real difference. Your dipping sauce will have actual body.
Swanson 100% Natural Beef Broth, 32 oz Carton
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Grab this if you read labels and care about ingredients. No weird additives, tastes clean, and it still makes a great au jus. Slightly lighter flavor, so I add a splash of soy sauce to bump it up.
Customer reviews for Pacific Foods Organic Beef Broth, 8oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use this when you're making French dip on a budget and don't want to spend five bucks on broth. Totally serviceable. Add a splash of Worcestershire and nobody will know it's the store brand.
Great Value, Gluten-Free Beef Broth, 32 oz Carton
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Switch to this for a bolder, almost caramelized flavor in your au jus. It's darker and more intense than regular broth. Perfect for people who want that deep brown restaurant-style dipping liquid.
College Inn Bold Stock, Tender Beef
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Toss two cubes into the slow cooker with water when you're completely out of broth. Not my first choice, but it works in a pinch and the flavor is surprisingly solid. Always keep a box in the pantry.
Customer reviews for Knorr Cube Bouillon Beef 2.3 oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pair this with a tablespoon of tomato paste for a slightly richer au jus. It's middle-of-the-road on flavor, which makes it a great base to build on. I add garlic and thyme and it comes alive.
Beef (TV Series 2023– ) ⭐ 8.0

Seasonings That Make the Beef Taste Like a Restaurant

Unseasoned slow cooker beef tastes like a sad cafeteria. The right seasoning packet or spice blend is the difference between your family asking for seconds and everyone reaching for the ketchup.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Sprinkle the whole packet over the roast before adding broth. This is the shortcut that makes your au jus taste like it simmered for days. I've been using this for three years and it never misses.
McCormick, Au Jus Gravy, 30% Less Sodium, 1 oz Packet
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Dump one envelope on top of the beef. The dried onion bits caramelize during the long cook and the flavor gets into every shred of meat. My mom did this in the 90s and she was right all along.
Lipton, Soup and Dip Mix, Onion Dry, 2 oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use about a tablespoon rubbed into the roast before it goes in. It adds that savory, slightly garlicky crust that you taste in every bite. Simple but it makes a noticeable difference.
Lawry's Kosher Economy Size Seasoned Salt, 16.0 oz Bottle
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try this rubbed generously on the outside of the chuck roast. The coarse pepper and garlic bits give the beef a little texture even after shredding. It's my go-to when I want a peppery kick.
Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 3.4 oz Bottle
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour three tablespoons into the broth. The tang cuts through the richness and adds that umami depth that makes people say they can't figure out your secret ingredient. Don't skip this one.
Lea & Perrins, Worcestershire Sauce, 15 fl oz, Original Flavor
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Sprinkle a teaspoon over the roast along with your other seasonings. Fresh garlic can burn in a slow cooker, but powder distributes evenly and mellows out over 8 hours. Subtle but important.
Mccormick Garlic Powder, 8.75 Oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Squeeze about two tablespoons into the broth before cooking. Sounds weird, I know. But it adds a tangy background note that rounds out the au jus. You won't taste mustard, just a deeper flavor.
French's Kosher Classic Yellow Mustard, 14.0 oz Squeeze
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Toss in a teaspoon with the broth. Thyme and beef are best friends and the slow cooker pulls every bit of flavor out of the dried leaves. It makes the whole house smell like a French bistro.
THYME LEAVES WHOLE 400G
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Drop two bay leaves into the broth and fish them out before serving. They add an herbal, slightly floral note to the au jus that you can't get from anything else. Always remove them though, nobody wants to bite into a leaf.
Simply Organic Bay Leaf 0.14 oz.

Hoagie Rolls That Hold Up to Dipping

Soft sandwich bread disintegrates the second it touches au jus. I learned this the hard way when my first attempt turned into beef soup with bread crumbs floating in it. The roll matters more than you think.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Grab these from the bakery section. Crusty outside, soft inside, and they hold up to a full dunk in au jus without falling apart. This is the roll I use every single week and I've never been let down.
Freshness Guaranteed French Steak Rolls, 13 oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Keep a bag of these in the freezer for when the bakery is picked over. Thaw them out, toast for two minutes, and they're sturdy enough for a loaded French dip. Reliable backup that's always in stock.
Pepperidge Farm Soft White Hoagie Rolls with Sesame
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try these for slider-sized French dips when you're feeding kids or making appetizers. Cut them in half, pile on the shredded beef, and give everyone their own little dipping bowl. Kids go wild for this format.
Sister Schubert's Dinner Yeast Rolls 13 Oz, 10 Count
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Slice this into thick pieces when hoagie rolls are sold out. It's got a good crust and the crumb is tight enough to handle dipping. Not traditional but it works great in a pinch.
Marketside Bake at Home Italian Loaf, 10 oz, 1 Loaf
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use this sliced thick for an open-face version when you want something softer. Toast it first so it holds up a little longer. My wife prefers this over hoagie rolls and eats it with a fork and knife.
Sara Lee Artesano Brioche Bakery Bread
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Snag these if you can find them. They're what Philly cheesesteak shops use and they're built to handle wet sandwiches. Chewy, crusty, and they don't get soggy even after a long soak in au jus.
Amoroso's Italian Rolls, Hearth-Baked Bread, 6ct, 13 oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Tear off sections and use them for dipping if you want a more casual, family-style dinner. Put the whole loaf on a cutting board next to the slow cooker and let everyone rip and dip. Less dishes, more fun.
Bakery Bread and Baked Cookies Selection
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Switch to these for a sweet-savory contrast that honestly works way better than it should. The sweetness against the salty au jus hits different. My teenage son requests this version specifically.
King's Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls 12 Count
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Keep these on hand if someone at the table is gluten free. They hold up surprisingly well and nobody has to sit out on French dip night. Toast them a little longer for extra structure before loading up.
Customer reviews for Schar Gluten Free Sandwich Rolls

Cheese That Melts Over Shredded Beef

French dip without melted cheese is fine, but French dip WITH melted cheese is a completely different experience. I started adding provolone one night on a whim and now I can't go back.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Lay two slices on the shredded beef while it's on the roll and broil for 90 seconds. Provolone is the classic choice and it melts into this stretchy, savory blanket. This is the cheese for French dip, period.
Sargento, Sliced Provolone Cheese with Smoke Flavor
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try sharp white cheddar for a tangier, more assertive flavor. It doesn't melt as smoothly as provolone but the taste is incredible against the rich beef. Perfect if you like your sandwiches with some bite.
Walmart Vermont Cheddar Boars Head Deli Delivery Near
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use Swiss if you want that classic diner vibe. It melts beautifully and has a mild nutty flavor that doesn't compete with the beef. My dad insists on Swiss and he's been making French dips since the 80s.
Kraft Singles Swiss Processed Cheese Product Slices
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Swap in mozzarella for a milder, stretchier melt. It lets the beef and au jus do the talking while adding that satisfying cheese pull. Budget friendly and it disappears into the sandwich in the best way.
Low-Moisture Mozzarella, 8 oz | Cheese
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Grab Tillamook cheddar when you want a sharper flavor without going full aged cheddar. It melts well under the broiler and adds a golden crust on top. Oregon cheese just hits different, I don't make the rules.
Tillamook Medium Cheddar Cheese Block, 16 oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use the ultra thin slices when you want cheese flavor without overwhelming the beef. Layer three thin slices instead of one thick one for even coverage. Melts faster too, so you spend less time under the broiler.
Sargento® Ultra Thin® Swiss Sliced Cheese, 18 slices
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Hear me out. American cheese on a French dip is comfort food at its peak. It melts instantly and coats every shred of beef. Sometimes you don't want fancy, you just want gooey and satisfying.
Kraft Deli Deluxe White American Cheese Slices
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try fresh mozz for a softer, creamier melt that's almost like a French dip meets caprese situation. It's lighter than aged cheese and lets the au jus flavor really come through. Great for summer versions.
BelGioioso Fresh Mozzarella Log, Pre-Sliced Cheese, 16 oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Switch to havarti when you want something buttery and creamy. It melts like a dream and adds a richness that provolone can't match. This is my pick when I'm trying to impress someone at dinner.
Sargento® Havarti Sliced Cheese, 10 slices

Toppings and Condiments That Take It Up a Level

Plain shredded beef on a roll is good. But the right topping combination turns it into something you'd pay eighteen dollars for at a restaurant. These are the extras I always have on the table.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pile a few slices on top if you like heat. The vinegar brine cuts through the rich beef and the spice wakes up the whole sandwich. My brother puts these on everything and he was the one who converted me.
Mezzetta Sliced Hot Jalapeño Peppers, 16 fl oz Jar
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Tuck a few pickle slices into the roll for a crunchy, tangy contrast. The acid from the pickles balances the fatty beef perfectly. Sounds weird on a French dip but trust me and try it once.
Vlasic Stackers Kosher Dill Pickles, Keto Friendly, 24 fl. oz.
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Spread a thin layer on the top half of the roll before loading the beef. Spicy brown mustard adds a sharpness that complements the au jus without fighting it. Way better than yellow mustard here.
French's Spicy Brown Mustard, 12.0 oz Bottle
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Dab this on the roll if you want that steakhouse vibe. The horseradish heat fades fast but leaves a tingle that makes every bite interesting. Not for kids, but adults go back for more every time.
Silver Spring, Prepared Horseradish Sauce, 8 oz Jar
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try a spoonful of sauerkraut on your French dip for a Reuben crossover that has no business being this good. The fermented tang against the beefy au jus is wild. My wife invented this combo and I'm grateful.
The Best Sauerkraut for Probiotics and Gut Health: Functional
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Spoon some giardiniera on top for a Chicago-style twist. The pickled vegetables add crunch, heat, and acidity all at once. If you've never tried this on a beef sandwich, you're about to have a revelation.
Giardiniera Hot Pepper Mix Spicy Pickled Vegetables
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Sprinkle a handful on top of the melted cheese for crunch. They add a toasty, oniony layer that makes the texture way more interesting. Same stuff you put on green bean casserole but way better used here.
French's Kosher Original Crispy Fried Onions, 6.0 oz Can
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Put this on the table for the kids and anyone who wants it. No judgment. My six year old dips her French dip in ketchup instead of au jus and she's happy, so I'm happy. Pick your battles.
Walkers Heinz Tomato Ketchup Multipack Crisps 6 x 25g
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Spread a thin layer on the roll before toasting. It adds richness and helps the bread crisp up under the broiler. Southern mayo lovers know what I'm talking about. Duke's specifically, the tang matters.
Duke's, Real Mayonnaise, 30 oz Jar, Smooth and Creamy

Sides That Go With French Dip Sandwiches

You can't just serve a sandwich by itself and call it dinner. These are the sides I rotate through every week so nobody gets bored. Most of them take less effort than the sandwich itself.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Toss these in the oven while the beef finishes in the slow cooker. Crinkle fries dipped in au jus is a combination that should be illegal. My kids discovered this move and now they use more au jus than I do.
Ore-Ida Crispy Crinkles French Fried Frozen Potatoes
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Microwave a bag of these to feel like you served a vegetable. Four minutes, done. I toss them with butter and salt and put them on the plate so dinner looks balanced. Nobody complains.
Birds Eye Steamfresh Broccoli Cuts
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Dump the bag in a bowl and mix in the dressing packet. Cold, crunchy coleslaw next to a hot, meaty sandwich is the contrast that makes both taste better. Takes 30 seconds and looks like you tried.
Dole Everything Caesar Chopped Salad Kit, 10.6 oz Bag
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour these into a bowl when you don't feel like turning on the oven. Sometimes chips are the right side and that's okay. The kettle crunch holds up next to a soft sandwich really well.
Sea Salt Potato Chips for Crisp Flavorful Snacking
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Bake a tray of onion rings and serve them alongside the sandwiches. Dip them in the au jus too. Everything is better dipped in au jus. This is the hill I will die on.
Great Value Whole Onion Rings, 16 oz (Frozen)
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Toss this together for anyone at the table who wants something green. The creamy Caesar dressing pairs surprisingly well with beefy sandwiches. Takes the guilt away from eating a giant pile of meat and bread.
Taylor Farms Caesar Chopped Salad Kit, 316 g
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Boil water, stir in the flakes, done. Spoon mashed potatoes next to the sandwich and pour leftover au jus over them like gravy. This is the move that made my husband say I should open a restaurant.
Recipes
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Heat a can of this as a starter before the sandwiches come out. A light brothy soup followed by a big meaty sandwich feels like a real meal. Takes five minutes and adds a course to dinner.
Progresso Italian-Style Wedding Soup, Traditional, 18.5 oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Roast these at 400 for 20 minutes while everything else comes together. Crispy Brussels sprouts with a French dip sandwich makes you feel like a functioning adult. Bonus points for getting a vegetable in.
Green Giant Simply Steam Brussels Sprouts Salt & Pepper

Drinks That Pair With Beefy Sandwiches

Nobody talks about what to drink with a French dip and they should. The wrong drink washes out the flavor. The right one makes the whole meal click together.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Crack open a cold root beer with a French dip and tell me that's not the most satisfying weeknight combo. The sweetness and carbonation cut through the rich beef. Glass bottle makes it feel special.
IBC Root Beer Made with Sugar Glass Bottles, 12 Fl Oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour this for a non-alcoholic option that feels fancy. The crisp apple flavor cleanses your palate between bites of beefy cheesy goodness. Great for family dinners when you want to make it an event.
Martinelli's Sparkling Apple Cider, 25.4 fl oz, Glass Bottle
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Sip this between bites to reset your taste buds. The strong carbonation and mineral flavor stand up to heavy food without adding sweetness. I keep a case in the garage specifically for dinner.
Topo Chico Carbonated Mineral Water, Twist of Lime
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour a big glass of sweet tea if you're from the South or just appreciate the combo. Sweet tea and beef sandwiches is a pairing that's been working at diners for decades. Don't overthink it.
Gold Peak Black Sweet Tea Bottle, 18.5 fl oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Grab a hard cider if you want something alcoholic that won't overpower the food. The apple sweetness and slight tartness complement the savory beef perfectly. Light enough that you don't feel heavy after.
Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Craft Hard Cider, 6 pack
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pair a Guinness with your French dip for a full-on pub night at home. The roasted malt flavor in the stout mirrors the deep beefy au jus. This is my Friday night combo when I want to feel like I'm at a pub.
Guinness Draught Stout Import Beer, 6 Pack Bottles
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour lemonade for the kids or for anyone who wants something bright and tart. The acidity cuts through the richness of the sandwich and keeps your mouth from feeling heavy. Always a crowd pleaser.
Simply Lemonade Bottle, 52 fl oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Keep a can of this by your plate for a no-calorie palate cleanser. The lime hint is subtle enough that it doesn't compete with the food. Perfect for anyone watching sugar intake but wanting something more than tap water.
LaCroix Sparkling Water, Lime- 2/12 packs 12 oz
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Open a bottle of cab if you want to class up French dip night. The bold red wine and beefy sandwich is a combination that restaurants charge a fortune for. You're doing it at home in sweatpants.
Barefoot Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Red Wine 750ml

Serving Bowls and Dishes for Au Jus Dipping

Dipping French dip sandwiches into a regular cereal bowl is chaotic. Au jus splashes everywhere and the sandwich falls in. The right dipping vessels made this meal way less messy at my table.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour au jus into individual ramekins so everyone gets their own dipping bowl. No more reaching across the table or double dipping arguments. These are the perfect size and they go in the dishwasher.
Better Homes & Gardens White Porcelain Ramekin, 0.42 lb
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use a soup bowl if you like to really submerge your sandwich. Wide enough to dip a full hoagie roll and deep enough to hold plenty of au jus. I use these every single French dip night.
Mainstays Glazed White Stoneware Round Dinner Bowl
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Snag these if you want your table to look like you put in effort. Cute floral pattern, perfect dipping size, and sturdy enough for daily use. My mom bought me a set and I use them more than any other dish.
The Pioneer Woman Vintage Floral Teal Stoneware
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Grab these basic white bowls for a clean, simple look. They're lightweight, nearly indestructible, and the white color makes the dark au jus look really appetizing. Sometimes simple is best.
Corelle Winter Frost White 18 oz Glass Cereal/Soup Bowl
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Try clear glass bowls so you can see the au jus level and know when you need a refill. Sounds silly but it's practical. Plus they look nice on the table and work for other meals too.
Libbey Small Glass Bowls with Lids Set of 8
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour the au jus into a gravy boat and set it in the center of the table. It looks impressive and the spout makes pouring into individual bowls really clean. No drips, no mess, feels like Thanksgiving.
Gravy Boats
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Use a glass measuring cup as a pour vessel for au jus. The handle and spout make it easy to distribute to everyone's bowl. It's not fancy but it's functional and you already own one probably.
Pyrex -2 Prepware 2 Glass Measuring Cup
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pile all the shredded beef on a big oval platter and let everyone build their own sandwich. Family style serving makes French dip night feel like an event. Less work for you, more fun for everyone.
Better Homes & Gardens Artisan Green Stoneware Oval
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Set the sliced rolls on a cutting board and bring it to the table. It's a serving piece and a cutting surface in one. Looks rustic, keeps crumbs contained, and gives the whole meal a casual vibe.
Mainstays Bamboo Cutting Board, 8.5 x 11

Storage Containers for Leftover Beef and Au Jus

Half the reason I make French dip is the leftovers. Shredded beef and au jus stored right will give you lunches for three days. Stored wrong and it dries out into sad beef jerky by Tuesday.

 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour leftover beef AND au jus together into one of these so the meat stays moist. The seal is actually airtight, which matters when you're storing liquid. No leaks in my fridge, ever.
Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Freeze extra au jus in these for next time. I make a double batch of broth, freeze half, and pull it out next week. Having au jus ready to go cuts your prep time in half.
Customer reviews for Glad Food Storage Containers
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Lay shredded beef flat in a freezer bag and squeeze out all the air. It freezes flat, stacks neatly, and thaws fast. I keep two bags in my freezer at all times for emergency French dip nights.
Ziploc Freezer Bags for Food Storage
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pour leftover au jus into mason jars and refrigerate. You can see exactly how much you have left, they seal tight, and you can microwave the au jus right in the jar with the lid off. Multi-purpose and cheap.
Ball, Glass Mason Jars, 32 oz, Wide Mouth, with Lids
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Keep leftover beef in glass so it doesn't absorb flavors from the container. Pyrex goes from fridge to microwave without any fuss. The glass doesn't stain from the dark au jus either, unlike plastic.
Pyrex Simply Store Glass Food Storage & Bake Container
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Wrap leftover assembled sandwiches tightly in foil and reheat in the oven at 350 for ten minutes. They come out almost as good as fresh. The foil keeps the bread from drying out during reheating.
REYNOLDS WRAP, Aluminum Foil, Heavy Duty, ...
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Freeze au jus in one-cup portions using these trays. Pop out exactly how much you need and thaw it without wasting a whole batch. This was the single smartest kitchen purchase I made last year.
Souper Cubes 1-Cup Extra-Large Silicone Freezing Tray
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Pack leftover French dip for lunch with the beef in one compartment and a small container of au jus in another. Reheat at work and your coworkers will be jealous. Beats a sad desk salad every time.
Fit & Fresh Kids 14 Piece Leak-Proof Lunch Container Set
 
Bianca Westwood profile picture
Slap one of these over a bowl of leftover shredded beef when you don't feel like finding a matching lid. They stretch over any bowl, seal tight, and peel off easily. Lazy but effective, my two favorite things.
Silicone Stretch Lids 6-Pack Small for Fresh Food Storage