We’ve always been huge fans of the classic French Dip sandwich with its tender beef and savory au jus, and our French Dip Squares recipe puts a fresh spin on it. This easy bake turns those comforting flavors into shareable squares that are perfect for parties or weeknight dinners.
We’re confident you’ll love how simple it is to whip up these crowd-pleasers right in your kitchen. Drawing from American diner roots, it’s a hearty twist that keeps the tradition alive while adding convenience to your table.
Ingredients
For our French Dip Squares recipe, we carefully select fresh, high-quality ingredients to capture the tender beef and savory au jus flavors that make this dish a crowd-pleaser for parties or weeknight meals.
To prepare the base and fillings, start with these:
- 2 cans (8 ounces each) of refrigerated crescent roll dough: Use this as the foundation; keep it chilled until ready to unroll for easy handling.
- 1 pound of deli-style roast beef, thinly sliced: Opt for high-quality cuts; shred or chop if you prefer smaller pieces for even distribution.
- 2 cups of shredded provolone cheese: We recommend a sharp variety for its melty texture and tangy flavor that complements the beef.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced: Caramelize these for added sweetness; aim for even slices to ensure uniform cooking.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Freshly minced for a pungent aroma that enhances the au jus.
- 2 cups of beef broth: Low-sodium if possible, to control the saltiness of the dipping sauce.
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce: This adds a bold, umami depth; stir it into the au jus mixture.
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Infuse with this herb for an earthy note that ties into the classic French Dip profile.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Season generously but adjust based on the beef’s flavor.
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter: For sautéing onions and garlic; use it melted in the pan for a rich base.
For the au jus dipping sauce, gather these supporting ingredients:
- 1 cup of water: Combine with beef broth to extend the sauce without diluting flavor.
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour: Used as a thickener; whisk it in to achieve the perfect consistency.
These ingredients, measured precisely, ensure our French Dip Squares turn out flavorful and foolproof every time.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our French Dip Squares to life with ease and precision, we need a selection of essential tools and equipment. These items help us prepare, assemble, and bake the dish efficiently while ensuring consistent results every time.
Essential Kitchen Tools
We recommend gathering the following tools based on the steps involved in handling ingredients like crescent roll dough, roast beef, and au jus sauce:
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet is crucial for evenly baking the assembled squares. We prefer one that’s non-stick or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup simple.
- Mixing Bowls: Use a set of medium-sized mixing bowls—one for combining seasonings and another for preparing the au jus—to keep our workflow organized and ingredients separate.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife paired with a stable cutting board allows us to slice onions for caramelizing and portion the roast beef accurately, ensuring uniform layers in our squares.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are key for our seasonings and au jus, so we rely on standard measuring cups and spoons to avoid any guesswork.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A 10-inch skillet works best for sautéing onions and garlic, helping us achieve that perfect caramelized flavor without burning.
- Whisk: This tool is indispensable for whisking together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and flour to create a smooth, thickened au jus dipping sauce.
- Oven Mitts and Spatula: Heat-resistant oven mitts protect our hands during baking, while a wide spatula aids in transferring the baked squares without breaking them apart.
By having these tools ready, we streamline the process from prep to serving, making our French Dip Squares a foolproof favorite for any occasion.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through creating these irresistible French Dip Squares step by step. Our straightforward process ensures tender beef layers meld with savory au jus flavors for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Prep
First, we preheat the oven to 375°F to ensure even baking and a golden crust on our crescent dough. In a skillet over medium heat, we sauté 1 cup of thinly sliced onions with 2 minced garlic cloves in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for 10 minutes until they turn golden and fragrant releasing a sweet aroma that hints at the comfort to come.
Next, we prepare the au jus by whisking together 2 cups of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small saucepan. We bring this mixture to a simmer then thicken it with a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of flour mixed into ¼ cup of water stirring constantly until it reaches a smooth gravy-like consistency perfect for dipping.
Assemble
We unroll one package of refrigerated crescent roll dough onto a greased baking sheet pressing it into a 9×13-inch rectangle to form the base. Layer on 8 ounces of deli-style roast beef evenly spreading it across the dough followed by the caramelized onions and 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese for a melty, savory contrast.
Top this with another package of crescent roll dough sealing the edges gently to create a sealed pocket that locks in the tender beef and cheese flavors. Use a sharp knife to score the top into 12 squares marking where we’ll cut later for easy serving.
Bake
We place the assembled squares in the preheated oven baking for 15 to 20 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese inside bubbles visibly. Once baked, we remove the pan using oven mitts and let it cool for 5 minutes on a wire rack allowing the flavors to settle and the squares to firm up.
Finally, we slice along the scored lines to separate into individual portions and serve warm with the prepared au jus on the side for dipping encouraging guests to enjoy the juicy, flavorful bite that evokes classic French Dip nostalgia.
Make-Ahead Tips
To make our French Dip Squares even more convenient for busy schedules or gatherings, we recommend these practical strategies. Preparing components in advance not only saves time but also enhances flavors, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
We can get a head start by prepping key elements up to 24 hours in advance. Begin with the caramelized onions: Sauté them as described in the recipe, then cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This step ensures the onions retain their sweet, savory depth without losing texture.
For the au jus, prepare the full sauce ahead of time. After simmering and thickening, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to a sealed jar or container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking in a splash of beef broth if it thickens too much during storage. This method keeps the dipping sauce fresh and flavorful, making our French Dip Squares assembly seamless.
Assembling the Squares in Advance
If we’re planning for a party or meal prep, assemble the entire dish up to 8 hours ahead. Layer the crescent roll dough, roast beef, caramelized onions, and shredded provolone cheese as per the instructions, then cover and refrigerate the unbaked squares. This allows the flavors to intensify, creating a more robust taste profile.
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Reheating/Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caramelized Onions | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container in fridge | Use as is or warm slightly |
| Au Jus | Up to 3 days | Sealed jar in fridge | Reheat on stovetop; adjust consistency with broth |
| Assembled Squares | Up to 8 hours | Covered in fridge on baking sheet | Bake directly from fridge, adding 2-5 minutes to cook time |
Storage and Reheating Best Practices
To maintain the crispy texture and gooey cheese of our French Dip Squares, store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Wrap cooled squares tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. When reheating, warm individual portions in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the dough regains its golden crispness. Always serve with freshly warmed au jus for the ultimate dipping experience, preserving that nostalgic French Dip vibe.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our French Dip Squares recipe with us. It’s a straightforward way to capture that cozy, savory vibe in your own kitchen.
This dish adds a fun twist to family meals or gatherings, letting you savor the best of diner nostalgia without the fuss. Try it soon and make it your go-to favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is French Dip Squares?
French Dip Squares is a modern twist on the classic French Dip sandwich, featuring tender roast beef, savory au jus, and melted cheese baked into easy-to-serve squares. It’s perfect for parties or weeknight dinners, offering comforting flavors with a nod to American diner roots.
What ingredients are needed for French Dip Squares?
You’ll need refrigerated crescent roll dough, deli-style roast beef, shredded provolone cheese, caramelized onions, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, seasonings, water, and flour for thickening. These high-quality ingredients ensure a flavorful, foolproof dish.
How do I make French Dip Squares?
Preheat your oven to 375°F, sauté onions and garlic until golden, then simmer beef broth with Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and seasonings to make the au jus. Layer crescent dough with roast beef, onions, and cheese, top with more dough, bake until golden, and serve with au jus for dipping.
What tools are required to prepare French Dip Squares?
You’ll need a baking sheet, mixing bowls, a sharp knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, a skillet for sautéing, a whisk for the au jus, and oven mitts with a spatula. These essentials streamline the process for efficient cooking.
Can I make French Dip Squares ahead of time?
Yes, caramelize onions up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge. Prepare au jus up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate. Assemble the squares up to 8 hours early and chill; this lets flavors meld for easier meal prep.
How should I store leftover French Dip Squares?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy, and warm the au jus separately for the best dipping experience, maintaining that classic French Dip taste.