French dip sliders are a bite-sized twist on the classic French dip sandwich. These mini sandwiches are made with layers of tender roast beef, melted cheese, and soft rolls, all baked to golden perfection. Served with a flavorful au jus sauce for dipping, they bring the rich and savoury flavours of a traditional French dip to a smaller, shareable format.
Perfect for parties, game days, or casual family gatherings, French dip sliders are a crowd-pleaser, thanks to their convenience and deliciousness. Their size makes them easy to serve, while the simple preparation ensures they’re stress-free for the host. They’re versatile enough to suit various occasions, whether as a main dish or an appetizer.
The key components of these sliders include sweet and soft rolls, juicy roast beef, gooey melted cheese like provolone or Swiss, and a warm au jus sauce that ties it all together. Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of flavours and textures that will make your guests return for more!
Ingredients You’ll Need for French Dip Sliders
The Sliders
- Hawaiian Rolls or Slider Buns: Their sweetness and soft texture perfectly complement the savoury roast beef.
- Sliced Roast Beef: Use deli-style roast beef or leftovers from a pot roast for a flavorful filling.
- Provolone or Swiss Cheese: These cheeses melt beautifully and add a creamy, savoury element.
The Topping
- Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps the sliders achieve a golden finish.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the topping with a subtle garlic flavour.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and umami to the butter topping.
- Poppy Seeds (Optional): Sprinkle on top for a touch of crunch and a classic slider look.
The Au Jus Sauce
- Beef Broth: The base for the dipping sauce, packed with savoury goodness.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Boosts the umami flavour in the au jus.
- Garlic and Onion Powder: Add subtle depth to the dipping sauce.
Pro Tip
Use high-quality roast beef for the best flavour. Freshly sliced deli roast beef or homemade leftovers will make your sliders stand out!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making French Dip Sliders
Prepare the Rolls
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected as a sheet.
- Set the bottom halves of the rolls into a greased baking dish.
Assemble the Sliders
- Layer the bottom rolls with slices of roast beef, ensuring even coverage.
- Add a layer of Provolone or Swiss cheese to the roast beef.
- Lay the top halves of the rolls on top of the cheese.
Make the Topping
- Mix melted butter, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
- Brush the mixture generously over the top of the rolls.
- Sprinkle poppy seeds (optional) for added texture and presentation.
Bake and Serve
- Cover the sliders with aluminium foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for 5 minutes to toast the tops until golden brown.
- Heat the au jus sauce on the stovetop and serve warm alongside the sliders for dipping.
Pro Tip
Serve the sliders hot with a generous portion of warm au jus sauce for dipping, elevating the flavour and experience of each bite!
Tips for Perfect French Dip Sliders
Choosing the Right Bread
- Opt for soft, slightly sweet rolls like Hawaiian rolls, as their texture perfectly complements the tender roast beef and melted cheese.
- Avoid using crusty bread, which can be too dense and may not absorb the flavorful au jus as effectively. Soft rolls ensure the sliders remain easy to bite into and soak up just the right amount of sauce.
Keeping the Sliders Moist
- Cover the sliders with aluminium foil during baking to trap the steam, keeping the rolls soft and preventing them from drying out.
- For a finishing touch, remove the foil in the final few minutes of baking to let the tops of the sliders toast to a golden, slightly crisp perfection.
Perfecting the Au Jus
- Use beef consommé or high-quality beef broth to create a rich and flavorful au jus that pairs beautifully with the sliders.
- Enhance the depth of the au jus by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce and seasoning with garlic and onion powder. These simple additions elevate the classic dipping sauce to restaurant-quality levels.
Pro Tip
Sprinkle a small amount of shredded Parmesan cheese on top of the sliders before baking. This adds a subtle nutty flavour and creates a lightly crispy topping that takes your sliders to the next level.
Creative Variations for French Dip Sliders
Cheesy French Dip Sliders
Take the cheesiness to the next level by layering extra cheese slices or using a blend like mozzarella, provolone, and Swiss for an irresistibly gooey and flavorful bite.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking to add a nutty, savoury kick and a slightly crispy crust.
Spicy Sliders
Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle your favourite hot sauce onto the sliders for a bold, fiery twist.
Opt for pepper jack cheese as a spicy, melty addition that complements the heat perfectly. This variation is perfect for those who love a little extra kick in every bite.
Vegetarian Version
Replace the roast beef with a hearty combination of sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for a satisfying vegetarian-friendly alternative.
Pair with a vegetable broth-based au jus for dipping, ensuring all the classic flavours in this meat-free version are still present.
Make-Ahead Option
You can assemble the sliders up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, covered tightly with foil. This helps retain freshness while streamlining your preparation.
When you’re ready to serve, bake them fresh for maximum flavour and the perfect texture.
Pro Tip
Add a layer of caramelized onions between the beef and cheese for an extra sweet and savoury twist. The onions’ natural sweetness balances the richness of the meat and cheese, elevating the sliders to gourmet levels.
FAQs and Storage Tips for French Dip Sliders
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional, Swiss, cheddar, or Gouda are excellent alternatives that complement the roast beef.
How do I keep sliders warm at a party?
Cover the sliders with foil and place them on a warming tray or in a low-temperature oven to keep them warm without drying out.
Can I make these sliders without au jus?
Yes, you can skip the au jus, but its savoury, rich flavour adds a classic and authentic touch that enhances the sliders.
What goes well with French dip sliders?
Sides:
- French Fries – Classic choice, crispy and salty to balance the juicy sliders.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly sweeter alternative with a crisp exterior.
- Coleslaw – Adds a refreshing crunch and tangy contrast.
- Onion Rings – Crispy and flavorful, a great match for the savory beef.
- Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a healthy touch.
- Potato Wedges – Hearty and satisfying, pairs well with au jus dipping sauce.
- Garlic Parmesan Potatoes – Crispy and packed with flavor.
- Mac and Cheese – Creamy and comforting, perfect for a richer meal.
- Side Salad – A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for balance.
- Pickles or Pickled Vegetables – Tangy and crunchy to cut through the richness.
Dips & Sauces:
- Au Jus Sauce – Essential for dipping, made from beef drippings.
- Horseradish Sauce – Adds a spicy kick that complements the beef.
- Garlic Aioli – Creamy and garlicky, great for spreading on the sliders.
- Spicy Mustard – A bold and tangy dip option.
- Cheese Sauce – A melty cheese dip makes it extra indulgent.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration
To keep any leftover sliders fresh and flavorful, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the sliders from drying out or absorbing other flavours from the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore their soft, warm texture and prevent sogginess.
Cover them lightly with foil during reheating to maintain moisture and prevent the cheese from over-browning.
Freezing
Freeze unbaked sliders by assembling them, placing them in a tightly sealed container, or wrapping them securely in foil. They can be stored for up to 1 month without losing quality.
When ready to enjoy, bake the sliders fresh from frozen or thaw them overnight in the fridge for even cooking.
Pro Tip
For ultimate convenience, assemble and freeze sliders unbaked. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, brush with the melted butter topping, and bake as usual. This method ensures you have fresh, flavorful sliders ready to serve for any occasion with minimal prep!
Why French Dip Sliders Are a Crowd Favorite
French dip sliders are a versatile dish that shines on game days, potlucks, casual family dinners, or even holiday gatherings. Their bite-sized format and hearty flavours make them a universal favourite that’s easy to share.
These sliders are as adaptable as they are delicious. Whether you prefer a spicy kick, extra cheese, or a vegetarian twist, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs.
We’d love to see how you make these sliders your own! Share your French dip slider creations, unique variations, or helpful tips in the comments below or on social media. Let’s inspire each other to make this classic dish even more delicious!
French Dip Sliders
Ingredients
For the Sliders:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls or soft slider buns
- 1 pound sliced roast beef (deli-style or leftover pot roast)
- 6 slices Provolone or Swiss cheese (cut in half to fit the rolls)
For the Topping:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added tang)
- 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
For the Au Jus Sauce:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact as a sheet.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish.
Assemble the Sliders
- Layer sliced roast beef evenly over the bottom rolls.
- Add a layer of Provolone or Swiss cheese over the roast beef.
- Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese to close the sliders.
Make the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Brush the mixture generously over the top of the rolls.
- Sprinkle with poppy seeds (optional).
Bake the Sliders
- Cover the sliders with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to toast the tops until golden brown.
Prepare the Au Jus Sauce
- While the sliders bake, heat beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 3–5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Serve
- Remove sliders from the oven and let them cool for 2–3 minutes.
- Slice the sliders into individual portions and serve with warm au jus sauce for dipping.