French Dip Squares: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Introduction
Imagine biting into a warm, flavorful sandwich with tender roast beef, melted cheese, and a savory au jus sauce. It’s a taste that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Today, I want to share with you my family’s favorite recipe for French Dip Squares. This delightful dish takes all the elements of a classic French dip sandwich and transforms them into a mouthwatering casserole that is perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together with friends or simply craving a comforting meal, French Dip Squares are sure to please. With layers of bread, roast beef, cheese, and a rich au jus sauce, this recipe combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need:
- 1 loaf French bread
- 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started with the preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your French Dip Squares bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Take your loaf of French bread and slice it horizontally, creating a top and bottom half. Place the bottom half of the bread in a baking dish, making sure it fits snugly.
Step 3: Layer the Roast Beef and Cheese
Next, layer the thinly sliced roast beef evenly over the bottom half of the bread. You want to create a generous layer that will provide a satisfying mouthful with each bite. Lay the provolone cheese slices on top of the roast beef, covering it completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Au Jus Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Once it simmers, remove it from the heat.
Step 5: Pour the Au Jus Sauce
Carefully pour the prepared au jus sauce over the layers of roast beef and cheese. The sauce will infuse the dish with rich flavor and keep the bread moist during baking.
Step 6: Top with the Bread
Place the top half of the French bread on top of the layered ingredients, creating a sandwich-like structure. The bread will soak up some of the au jus sauce, becoming soft and flavorful as it bakes.
Step 7: Brush with Melted Butter
Using a pastry brush, generously brush the melted butter over the top of the French bread. This will give the dish a beautiful golden crust and add a touch of richness to each bite.
Step 8: Bake and Serve
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Slice into squares and serve warm.
Variations
While the classic French Dip Squares recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, you can also explore some delicious variations:
Keto Version
If you’re following a keto lifestyle, you can easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs. Simply replace the French bread with low-carb bread or use lettuce wraps instead. Swap the Worcestershire sauce for coconut aminos and use a keto-friendly cheese option. You’ll still enjoy all the amazing flavors without compromising your goals.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about French Dip Squares:
Can I make French Dip Squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! French Dip Squares can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them a convenient option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
What can I serve with French Dip Squares?
French Dip Squares pair well with a variety of side dishes. You can serve them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of crispy french fries for a complete meal.
Can I freeze French Dip Squares?
While it’s best to enjoy French Dip Squares fresh, you can freeze them for later consumption. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Conclusion
French Dip Squares are a delightful twist on a classic sandwich. With layers of tender roast beef, melted cheese, and a flavorful au jus sauce, this casserole-style dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, give this recipe a try. The warm, savory flavors will leave you satisfied and longing for seconds. Enjoy!
