French Dip Sliders: The Ultimate Party Appetizer or Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for game day, family gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight dinner, French Dip Sliders are the answer. These mini sandwiches are packed with flavor, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create the most delicious French Dip Sliders you’ve ever tasted. Plus, we’ll share tips to make this dish even more irresistible and SEO-friendly, so you can find this recipe again and again!

---

Why French Dip Sliders Are a Must-Try

French Dip Sliders are a modern twist on the classic French Dip sandwich. They combine tender roast beef, caramelized onions, melty provolone cheese, and buttery sweet rolls, all served with a side of savory au jus for dipping. The best part? They’re baked in one pan, making them incredibly easy to prepare and serve.

These sliders are perfect for:

• Game Day Snacks: Feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Weeknight Dinners: A quick and satisfying meal the whole family will love.
• Party Appetizers: Bite-sized and easy to handle, they’re a hit at any gathering.

---

Ingredients for French Dip Sliders

Here’s everything you’ll need to make 12 French Dip Sliders:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for caramelizing the onions)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (adds sweetness and depth of flavor)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced (for a hint of herbaceousness)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (to enhance the flavors)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for a subtle kick)
• 12 sweet rolls (Hawaiian rolls work great for their softness and slight sweetness)
• 10 slices provolone cheese (melts beautifully and complements the roast beef)
• 14 ounces sliced deli roast beef (the star of the dish)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for the buttery topping)
• 1 & 1/2 tablespoons dried onion soup mix (adds a savory, umami flavor)
• 1 packet au jus gravy mix (for the dipping sauce)
• 3 cups water (to prepare the au jus)
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional) (adds a pop of color and freshness)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions for French Dip Sliders

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect French Dip Sliders:

1. Caramelize the Onions

• In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
• Add the thinly sliced onions and coat them in the butter. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft, golden brown, and caramelized. Be careful not to burn them.
• Add the minced thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, then remove from heat and set aside.

2. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the sliders bake evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

3. Assemble the Sliders

• Take the sweet rolls out of the package, but keep them intact. Use a large knife to slice the rolls horizontally, separating the tops from the bottoms.
• Place the bottom halves, cut side up, into an 11×7-inch baking dish.
• Layer half of the provolone cheese slices on top of the rolls.
• Add the sliced roast beef, spreading it evenly across the rolls.
• Top with the caramelized onions, distributing them evenly.
• Add the remaining provolone cheese slices on top of the onions.
• Place the top halves of the rolls back on, completing the sliders.

4. Prepare the Butter Topping

• In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and dried onion soup mix. Stir until well combined.
• Brush this mixture evenly over the tops of the rolls. This step adds a rich, savory flavor and helps the rolls brown beautifully in the oven.

5. Bake the Sliders

• Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil, making sure the foil doesn’t touch the tops of the rolls.
• Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly.

6. Prepare the Au Jus

• While the sliders are baking, prepare the au jus gravy according to the package instructions using 3 cups of water. This will be your dipping sauce.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Once the sliders are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
• Slice the sliders into individual portions and serve with the au jus on the side for dipping.

The History of French Dip Sandwiches and Their Evolution into Sliders

The French Dip Sandwich has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. While its exact origins are debated, the most popular story traces it to Los Angeles, where it was allegedly created by Philippe Mathieu, a French immigrant and owner of Philippe The Original restaurant. Legend has it that Mathieu accidentally dropped a French roll into the juices of a roasting pan while preparing a sandwich for a police officer. The officer loved the result, and the French Dip Sandwich was born. Over time, this classic sandwich evolved, and its miniaturized version, the French Dip Slider, became a popular choice for parties and gatherings.

The transition from full-sized sandwiches to sliders was a natural progression, driven by the need for bite-sized, easy-to-eat options at social events. Sliders are not only convenient but also allow for creative variations. French Dip Sliders retain all the beloved elements of the original sandwich—tender roast beef, caramelized onions, melty cheese, and a side of au jus—but in a smaller, more shareable format. This evolution has made them a staple at game day parties, family dinners, and potlucks.

Tips for Perfect French Dip Sliders

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on simple ingredients, opt for high-quality roast beef and fresh rolls. The better the ingredients, the better the sliders will taste.
2. Don’t Skip the Onions: Caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that takes these sliders to the next level. Be patient and let them cook slowly.
3. Customize the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of provolone, try Swiss, mozzarella, or even cheddar cheese.
4. Make Ahead Option: You can assemble the sliders a few hours in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
5. Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a large crowd, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and one-pan baking, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: Perfect for parties, dinners, or even meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of flavors is irresistible, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

---

FAQs About French Dip Sliders

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! While roast beef is traditional, you can use sliced turkey, ham, or even grilled chicken for a twist.

Q: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the sliders, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: What can I serve with French Dip Sliders?
A: These sliders pair well with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or crispy french fries.

Q: Can I freeze French Dip Sliders?
A: While they’re best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze baked sliders in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

---

Print

Final Thoughts

French Dip Sliders are the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The combination of tender roast beef, caramelized onions, melty cheese, and buttery rolls is simply unbeatable. Plus, the au jus dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that ties everything together.