There’s just something about the combination of juicy roast beef, melty cheese, and savory au jus dipping sauce that makes my mouth water. I can still remember the first time I had French Dip Squares – it was at a family gathering, and the moment I took that first bite, I was hooked. The buttery, herb-seasoned rolls, the tender slices of beef, and the indulgent cheese…it was flavor perfection in every single bite.
From that day on, French Dip Squares have become a go-to recipe for me, whether I’m hosting a casual game night, planning a tailgate party, or simply craving a delicious handheld meal. They’re just so easy to put together, yet the end result is always a show-stopper. My family and friends can’t get enough of them, and I know your loved ones will feel the same way.
Why This French Dip Squares Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect French Dip Squares
The key to making truly spectacular French Dip Squares lies in the simple yet impactful technique of baking the assembled sandwiches instead of grilling or toasting them. This gentle baking process allows the flavors to meld together seamlessly, resulting in a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. The rolls become delightfully soft and pillowy, while the roast beef and cheese melt into a luxurious, gooey filling. And the best part? The entire dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect quick and easy solution for any gathering.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these French Dip Squares, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that work together to achieve that signature flavor profile:
- 1 package (12 count) dinner rolls or small sandwich buns: The foundation of the dish, these soft, fluffy rolls provide the perfect vehicle for the delicious fillings.
- 1/2 pound thinly sliced roast beef: Juicy, tender slices of roast beef are the star of the show, offering a rich, savory element that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- 6 slices provolone cheese, cut in half: Melty, creamy provolone cheese adds a luxurious texture and flavor that complements the roast beef perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: The butter helps create a golden-brown, crispy exterior on the rolls, while also infusing them with a delightful buttery flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This fragrant herb adds an aromatic, Italian-inspired touch to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle yet punchy garlic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Onion powder provides a savory, background note that ties all the flavors together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A sprinkle of black pepper adds a gentle heat and depth of flavor.
- Au jus dipping sauce: Serving these French Dip Squares with a side of flavorful au jus dipping sauce is a must, allowing you to dunk and soak up every last bit of the delicious juices.
Step-by-Step French Dip Squares Instructions
Preparing Your French Dip Squares
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, these French Dip Squares come together in a flash. All you’ll need is a baking sheet and a few simple kitchen tools to get started.
1- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Slice the dinner rolls or sandwich buns in half horizontally to create top and bottom pieces.
2- Arrange the bottom halves of the rolls on the baking sheet. Layer the thinly sliced roast beef evenly over the bottom rolls, then top each with a half slice of provolone cheese.
3- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the top halves of the rolls with this seasoned butter mixture.
4- Place the top halves of the rolls over the roast beef and cheese, creating the complete sandwich structure. Bake the assembled French Dip Squares for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
5- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the French Dip Squares cool for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a serving platter.
6- Serve the warm, gooey French Dip Squares alongside the au jus dipping sauce, allowing your guests to dunk and enjoy every bite.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your French Dip Squares turn out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find for the best flavor. Opt for thinly sliced, high-quality roast beef and full-flavored provolone cheese.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of dinner rolls or small sandwich buns. Brioche, Hawaiian, or even pretzel rolls can all work wonderfully.
- For an extra crispy exterior, brush the tops of the rolls with a bit of melted butter before baking. This will give them a gorgeous golden-brown color.
- Keep a close eye on the French Dip Squares during the baking process to prevent the cheese from overcooking or the rolls from becoming too crispy.
Serving and Storing Your French Dip Squares
Perfect Pairings for French Dip Squares
These French Dip Squares are the ultimate crowd-pleasing handheld meal, serving up to 12 people. They pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from crisp, fresh salads to creamy coleslaw or even a simple bowl of chips. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a creamy tomato or vegetable soup for dipping. As for beverages, these French Dip Squares are the perfect accompaniment to an ice-cold beer, a tangy lemonade, or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this French Dip Squares recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead and store for later. Once baked, the squares can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a fantastic option for meal prep or quick and easy lunches. To reheat, simply place the squares on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
For longer-term storage, the unbaked French Dip Squares can be assembled, wrapped tightly, and frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply transfer the frozen squares to a baking sheet and bake at 350°F until hot and melty, about 20-25 minutes.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for French Dip Squares
Creative French Dip Squares Variations
While the classic French Dip Squares recipe is a surefire hit, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish:
- Swap out the roast beef for thinly sliced turkey or ham for a delicious twist.
- Try using different types of cheese, like Swiss, cheddar, or even a blend, to change up the flavor profile.
- For a spicy kick, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoned butter mixture.
- In the fall, use sage or rosemary in place of the oregano for a cozy, autumnal vibe.
Making French Dip Squares Diet-Friendly
To make these French Dip Squares more diet-friendly, consider the following substitutions:
- Use gluten-free dinner rolls or buns to make the dish gluten-free.
- Replace the provolone cheese with a plant-based vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
- For a low-carb take, serve the roast beef and cheese filling on lettuce wraps instead of rolls.
No matter which variations or adaptations you choose, these French Dip Squares are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese besides provolone?
A: Absolutely! Provolone is the classic choice, but you can easily substitute other types of cheese, such as Swiss, cheddar, or even a cheese blend.
Q: How long do I need to bake the French Dip Squares?
A: The total baking time for these French Dip Squares is 15 minutes. This ensures the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Q: Can I make the French Dip Squares ahead of time?
A: Yes, these squares are perfect for make-ahead meals. You can assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate them for up to 3 days, or freeze the unbaked squares for up to 2 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This French Dip Squares recipe yields 12 servings, making it a great option for parties, game days, or family gatherings.
Q: What if the cheese doesn’t melt properly?
A: Make sure to use thinly sliced or shredded cheese, and check that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. If the cheese still isn’t melting, try covering the baking sheet with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
French Dip Squares
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
These bite-sized French Dip Squares are a savory and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with tender roast beef, melty cheese, and flaky bread, they come together in just 15 minutes for a quick and easy treat the whole family will love.
Ingredients
– 1 package (12 count) dinner rolls or small sandwich buns
– 1/2 pound thinly sliced roast beef
– 6 slices provolone cheese, cut in half
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Au jus dipping sauce, for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the dinner rolls or buns in half horizontally to create tops and bottoms.
3. Layer a piece of roast beef and a half slice of provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
4. Replace the top halves of the rolls.
5. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Brush the tops of the rolls with the seasoned butter.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are lightly golden.
7. Serve the French Dip Squares warm, with the au jus dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
For extra flavor, try using a variety of cheese slices, such as Swiss, cheddar, or Gruyère. You can also experiment with different types of roast beef, like roast turkey or ham. These squares are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
French Dip Squares are truly a game-changer when it comes to quick, easy, and absolutely delicious handheld meals. With their perfectly balanced flavors, gooey texture, and convenient serving size, it’s no wonder they’ve become a go-to recipe in my household. I know your family and friends will love them just as much as mine do.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to wow everyone with these irresistible French Dip Squares. Don’t forget to share your creation and tag me on social media – I can’t wait to see how your French Dip Squares turn out!
