Masters of kitchen
Why You’ll Love French Dip Sliders
Imagine everything you love about a classic French dip sandwich—savory roast beef, melty cheese, warm au jus—all tucked into buttery slider buns. French Dip Sliders are the perfect fusion of indulgence and convenience, making them a go-to dish for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day spreads.
These little sandwiches pack big flavor in every bite. The juicy beef pairs perfectly with gooey melted cheese and golden toasted rolls, while the rich au jus dipping sauce adds an extra hit of savory goodness. Whether you serve them fresh from the oven or reheat them the next day (yes, they’re just as good!), you’ll find yourself making them again and again.
Pro tip: Serve them with toothpicks for easy grabbing—these crowd-pleasers tend to disappear fast!
What Are French Dip Sliders?
French Dip Sliders are a fun-sized take on the beloved French dip sandwich, which originated in early 1900s Los Angeles. Traditionally made with a crusty roll, roast beef, and a bowl of warm jus for dipping, the classic sandwich gets a party-friendly upgrade here.
Instead of large rolls, these sliders are made with soft slider buns or sweet Hawaiian rolls. They’re stuffed with thin-sliced roast beef, Swiss or provolone cheese, and often topped with a garlic-butter glaze. Baked until bubbly and golden, they’re served warm with au jus on the side for that signature dip.
They’re a steakhouse favorite turned into a bite-sized comfort food, ideal for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to bring these cheesy, beefy sliders to life:
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Mini rolls: Hawaiian sweet rolls are a favorite, but dinner rolls, brioche buns, or pretzel sliders work too.
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Roast beef: Use deli-style thin-sliced roast beef for quick prep, or use leftover homemade beef roast for extra depth.
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Cheese: Classic choices include Swiss and provolone for their meltability and mild flavor. You can also try mozzarella for a stretchier texture or Gruyère for a nutty twist.
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Onions (optional): Caramelized onions add sweetness and texture, but you can skip or replace with sautéed mushrooms or horseradish mayo.
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Garlic-butter glaze: Melted butter mixed with garlic, parsley, and sometimes Worcestershire or Dijon—this makes the tops golden, flavorful, and crisp.
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Au jus: Use a store-bought packet for convenience or make a quick version from beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and onion powder.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! These sliders are super adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
How to Make French Dip Sliders Step-by-Step
Making French Dip Sliders is easier than it looks. Here’s a quick walkthrough to guarantee delicious results:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent soggy bottoms.
Step 2: Slice the Buns
Using a serrated knife, slice the entire package of slider buns horizontally, keeping them connected. Place the bottom half in the prepared dish.
Step 3: Layer Roast Beef
Evenly layer thin slices of roast beef over the bottom buns. Fold or bunch the meat slightly to keep it juicy and textured.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Extras
Top with sliced cheese—Swiss, provolone, or a mix. If using caramelized onions or a sauce like horseradish cream, layer them in now.
Step 5: Add the Top Layer
Place the top half of the buns over everything.
Step 6: Brush with Butter Glaze
Melt butter and mix in minced garlic, parsley, and a dash of Worcestershire or Dijon. Brush generously over the tops of the buns.
Step 7: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 5–10 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 8: Make the Au Jus
While baking, make the dipping sauce. You can use a packet mix or make your own by simmering beef broth with garlic, Worcestershire, and soy sauce.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Cut into individual sliders after baking. Serve hot with warm au jus on the side.
Tips for Best Results
To make your sliders next-level:
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Brush that butter: The garlic-butter topping isn’t optional—it locks in flavor and keeps the buns from drying out.
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Avoid soggy bottoms: Line the baking pan with parchment and don’t overdo sauces inside the buns.
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Let it rest briefly: Let sliders sit 3–5 minutes after baking to make cleaner cuts.
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Make ahead magic: Assemble the sliders (without the butter) and refrigerate. Add the glaze and bake just before serving.
Best Cheeses for French Dip Sliders
You’re not limited to one cheese—mix and match for fun combinations:
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Swiss: Classic and slightly nutty.
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Provolone: Creamy and smooth with great meltability.
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Mozzarella: Mild flavor and perfect stretch.
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Cheddar: Adds boldness and tang.
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Cheese tip: Use pre-sliced deli cheese for even melting, and layer it evenly across each slider.
Flavorful Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, there are so many tasty ways to switch up your French Dip Sliders. Here are some creative spins to suit every craving:
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a little heat.
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Garlic Lover’s: Mix roasted garlic into the butter topping or spread garlic aioli inside the buns.
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Mushroom Swiss: Sauté mushrooms and onions and layer them under the cheese for an earthy, creamy combo.
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Bacon Ranch: Add crispy cooked bacon and a drizzle of ranch dressing for smoky-savory richness.
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Philly Cheesesteak Style: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, onions, and provolone for a Philly-inspired bite.
Tip: Don’t overload the sliders with fillings—balance is key so they bake evenly and don’t fall apart when dipped.
What to Serve with French Dip Sliders
Turn your sliders into a full meal with some tasty pairings. Here are the best sides, dips, and drinks to round things out:
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Dips: Classic au jus is a must, but creamy horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard adds a tangy contrast.
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Sides: Serve with crispy French fries, seasoned potato wedges, or a cool coleslaw for texture.
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Salads: A Caesar salad or peppery arugula salad balances the rich beef and cheese.
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Drinks: Try a cold beer, iced tea, or a classic cola—all great with the savory sliders.
These combos make your table feel like a mini bistro spread!
How to Make Ahead, Store & Reheat
French Dip Sliders are super meal-prep friendly. Here’s how to stay ahead of the game:
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Make Ahead: Assemble everything (minus the butter topping), then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
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Before Baking: When ready to bake, brush with the garlic butter and pop in the oven.
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Storage: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven wrapped loosely in foil or use an air fryer to get the tops crispy again. Avoid microwaving—they get too soft.
Perfect for quick lunches or snacks the next day!
Can You Freeze French Dip Sliders?
Absolutely! These sliders are freezer-friendly and still taste amazing.
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For best results, assemble but don’t bake. Wrap the pan tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
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When ready to serve, bake straight from frozen, covered with foil for 20–25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 5–10 minutes to crisp the tops.
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Already baked? Wrap individually and reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through.
Note: Avoid freezing with fresh greens or sauces inside—they don’t thaw well.
FAQs: People Also Ask
What kind of roast beef is best for French Dip Sliders?
Go for thin-sliced deli roast beef for convenience or use leftover pot roast or chuck roast for extra flavor.
How do you keep sliders from getting soggy?
Lightly toast the bottom buns before layering and line your baking pan with parchment. Also, avoid adding too much sauce inside.
Can I make these in a slow cooker?
You can make the beef filling in a slow cooker with broth and seasonings, but sliders should be assembled and baked separately for the best texture.
What dipping sauces go well with French Dip Sliders?
Beyond au jus, try horseradish mayo, garlic aioli, or French onion dip for extra flavor variety.
Are French Dip Sliders kid-friendly?
Yes! Just keep it simple with mild cheese and skip spicy additions like jalapeños.
Final Thoughts & Serving Suggestions
French Dip Sliders are the kind of dish that wins over a crowd with ease. They’re comforting, indulgent, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, feeding picky kids, or just craving something warm and cheesy, these sliders hit the spot.
Try a few flavor twists, pair them with your favorite sides, and watch them disappear fast. Once you start dipping, you won’t want to stop!
French Dip Sliders
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Serrated knife
- Small saucepan (for au jus)
- Pastry Brush
- Aluminum foil
- Cutting board
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 package 12-count Hawaiian rolls or slider buns
- 1 lb thin-sliced deli roast beef
- 8 –10 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
- 1 small onion caramelized (optional)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder or minced garlic
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 packet au jus mix or 2 cups beef broth + Worcestershire for homemade version
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Slice the rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected, and place the bottom half in the baking dish.
- Layer roast beef evenly over the bottom buns.
- Top with cheese slices and caramelized onions if using.
- Place the top half of the buns over the meat and cheese.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic, parsley, and Worcestershire.
- Brush butter mixture over the tops of the buns.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5–7 minutes until golden and melty.
- While baking, prepare the au jus according to packet directions or simmer beef broth with a splash of Worcestershire and garlic powder.
- Slice into individual sliders and serve with warm au jus for dipping.
Notes
- Make Ahead Tip: Assemble sliders (without the butter) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add butter topping and bake when ready to serve.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze pre-baked sliders tightly wrapped. Bake from frozen, covered, then uncover to crisp.
- Customize It: Try adding jalapeños for spice, sautéed mushrooms for richness, or swap cheeses for a flavor twist.
- Serving Suggestion: Pairs well with potato wedges, Caesar salad, and cold beer.