Classic French Dip Sliders with Au Jus Dipping Sauce

Oh, sweet friends, there’s just something truly magical about gathering around the table with loved ones, isn’t there? And these french dip sliders are the perfect way to bring that warmth and comfort right into your home. Imagine tender roast beef and melted provolone, nestled in golden Hawaiian sweet rolls, just begging to be dipped into a rich, savory au jus. It’s a dish that feels both wonderfully gourmet and utterly comforting, a true testament to how simple ingredients can become extraordinary with a little love.

My grandmother always said the best meals were those shared with a laugh and a story. I remember countless afternoons in her kitchen, the air thick with the scent of simmering goodness, and the joy of creating something delicious together. These sliders evoke that same feeling for me – the satisfaction of crafting a delightful meal that brings everyone together, just like her famous Sunday roasts.

This recipe for savory sliders is wonderfully versatile, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a lively get-together with friends. They come together with minimal fuss, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, yet they feel special enough for any celebration. And here’s a little tip from my kitchen to yours: always choose the freshest rolls you can find; they make all the difference in that irresistible, soft bite!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting these delicious french dip sliders starts with a few humble ingredients that truly shine when brought together. We’re talking about those delightful Hawaiian sweet rolls, savory deli-sliced roast beef, and the creamy comfort of provolone cheese, all elevated by sweet, slow-cooked caramelized onions. Every element plays a crucial role in creating a symphony of flavors and textures. You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements ready for you in the recipe card just below.

How to Make french dip sliders

Whipping up your own french dip sliders is a delightful journey that begins with patiently caramelizing onions until they’re sweet and golden. Then, it’s a matter of assembling those buttery, garlicky rolls with layers of roast beef and provolone before baking them to gooey perfection. While the sliders bake, a quick and flavorful au jus comes together on the stovetop, ensuring every bite is ready for that essential, savory dip. It’s truly a rewarding process that builds anticipation for a wonderful meal.

Gourmet French Dip Sliders with Caramelized Onions

These gourmet French Dip Sliders feature tender roast beef, rich caramelized onions, and melty provolone cheese, all nestled in buttery Hawaiian rolls and served with a flavorful homemade au jus for dipping. Perfect for an easy dinner or elegant appetizer, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser that delivers classic French dip flavor in a convenient bite.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 12 sliders

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Sliders

• 1 package Hawaiian sweet rolls 12 count, split horizontally
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley flakes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb deli-sliced roast beef thinly sliced
• 6 slices provolone cheese cut in half

For the Au Jus

• 3 cups beef broth low sodium
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Pinch red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Small saucepan
• Basting Brush

Method

 

Prepare the Caramelized Onions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until the onions are deeply golden brown and very tender. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assemble the Sliders

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Evenly layer half of the provolone cheese slices over the bottom rolls.
4. Distribute the caramelized onions over the cheese layer.
5. Arrange the deli-sliced roast beef over the onions.
6. Top the roast beef with the remaining half of the provolone cheese.
7. Place the top half of the rolls back on, creating the slider tops.
8. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley flakes. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the Hawaiian rolls.

Bake the Sliders

1. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil.
2. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tops of the rolls are golden brown.
3. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Make the Au Jus

1. While the sliders are baking, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper (and optional red pepper flakes) in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and keep warm until ready to serve.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter topping. These sliders are best served immediately with the warm au jus on the side for dipping. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Pro Tips for Making This french dip sliders

Creating these delightful french dip sliders is a joy, and with a few of my favorite tricks, yours will turn out perfectly every time!

First, don’t rush those caramelized onions. This step truly builds the foundation of flavor for the best french dip sliders. Low and slow is the secret to getting them deeply sweet and golden, about 20-25 minutes. Trust me, it’s worth every minute!

When assembling, be generous with the garlic butter mixture on your Hawaiian sweet rolls. It creates that irresistible golden crust and adds a beautiful aroma as they bake. I always brush it right into every crevice for maximum flavor.

My Secret Trick: Before adding the provolone cheese, lightly warm your deli-sliced roast beef in a pan for just a minute or two. This helps it distribute more evenly and get that perfect melty texture when baked.

Finally, for that incredible au jus, taste and adjust! I always recommend tasting the broth as it simmers and adding a little more Worcestershire or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want to deepen its complexity or add a subtle kick.

Fun Variations for french dip sliders

One of the things I adore about home cooking is the freedom to get a little creative! These french dip sliders are a fantastic canvas for your own personal touches. If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Cheese Please!

While provolone is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses! My sister always asks me to use smoked gouda for an extra layer of richness, or sometimes a sharp white cheddar can add a lovely tang that complements the roast beef beautifully.

Spice It Up

For a little kick, sprinkle some extra red pepper flakes over the roast beef before baking, or even add a touch of horseradish to the au jus for an invigorating zing. A friend loves when I add a few pickled jalapeño slices to her sliders!

Onion Options

If you’re short on time, you can use a good quality store-bought caramelized onion jam, though nothing beats homemade! Alternatively, try sautéing some bell peppers with your onions for a different flavor profile.

What to Serve With french dip sliders

When I prepare these incredible french dip sliders, I love to think about what will complete the meal and make it feel truly special. Here are a few of my favorite pairings that always bring smiles to the table:

For a fresh contrast, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a winner. It balances the richness of the sliders beautifully. Sometimes, I’ll even add some candied pecans or crumbled goat cheese to the salad for extra flair.

Another wonderful option is a warm bowl of tomato soup! There’s something so comforting about dipping your savory sliders into the au jus and then enjoying a spoonful of a hearty soup. My mom always pairs them with a simple Caesar salad too.

And for a quick side that everyone loves, simple oven-baked potato wedges or sweet potato fries are perfect. They’re easy to prepare while the sliders are in the oven and add a satisfying crunch.

How to Store french dip sliders

Knowing how to properly store your french dip sliders means you can enjoy those delicious flavors even longer! It’s all about keeping them fresh for another day.

Fridge Storage

If you happen to have any leftover french dip sliders, the best way to keep them fresh is to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay wonderfully delicious for up to 2-3 days. I find that separating the au jus into its own container also helps maintain their individual textures.

Reheating for Freshness

To reheat, I like to warm the sliders gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are lightly toasted. This brings back that lovely crispness. For the au jus, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until it’s simmering. A quick zap in the microwave works too, but the oven truly revives them best!

Nutritional Benefits

These satisfying french dip sliders, while a true comfort food, do offer some wholesome elements. The roast beef provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle health, and the onions contribute dietary fiber and beneficial antioxidants. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal, reminding us that even indulgent dishes can incorporate simple, nourishing ingredients from our kitchen.

FAQs

Can I make french dip sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Assemble the sliders (without baking) and prepare the au jus up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then bake and reheat the au jus just before serving these delightful french dip sliders.

What kind of roast beef should I use?

For the best flavor and tenderness, choose high-quality deli-sliced roast beef. I recommend getting it thinly sliced from the deli counter, as it will stack beautifully and absorb the flavors.

Can I freeze leftover sliders?

While technically possible, I don’t typically recommend freezing fully assembled and baked sliders, as the bread can become a bit soggy upon thawing. It’s better to store them in the fridge and enjoy them within a few days.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce for the au jus?

Worcestershire sauce adds a key savory depth, but if you don’t have it, a dash of soy sauce or a good quality balsamic vinegar can offer a similar umami note to your au jus.

Conclusion

And there you have it, sweet friends – a recipe for Classic French Dip Sliders with Au Jus Dipping Sauce that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home. These savory sliders truly embody everything I adore about home cooking: simple ingredients, a little bit of patience, and the incredible reward of a dish that brings smiles and creates lasting memories around the table. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of the kitchen, and let these warm, comforting french dip sliders fill your home with love and delicious aromas! Happy baking, and even happier dipping!