The savory aroma of caramelized onions fills the kitchen as these French Dip Sliders come together, blending tender roast beef with melted provolone on soft sweet rolls. Each bite delivers a comforting mix of juicy meat and rich cheese, all perfect for dipping into warm au jus. This recipe turns simple ingredients into an irresistible treat that’s both familiar and elevated.
I appreciate how these sliders fit seamlessly into busy weeknights or game days, serving as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or full meal for four. They reheat beautifully, keeping the flavors intact for leftovers the next day. Friends always ask for the recipe because it’s straightforward yet feels special.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Quick Assembly: These sliders layer up in minutes, making them ideal for busy evenings without sacrificing flavor.
- Family Favorite: The melty cheese and tender beef appeal to all ages, turning dinner into a fun dipping experience.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Caramelize onions ahead to streamline prep and enjoy fresh-tasting results later.
- Versatile Serving: Perfect as appetizers or mains, with au jus adding that restaurant-quality touch.
Easy French Dip Sliders
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizers/Sandwiches
- Method: Baking/Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Easy French Dip Sliders are mini sandwiches made with sweet rolls, roast beef, provolone cheese, and caramelized onions, served with a warm au jus dipping sauce for a flavorful appetizer or meal.
Ingredients
- 12 sweet slider rolls (like King’s Hawaiian)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 10–14 ounces thinly sliced deli roast beef
- 10 slices provolone cheese
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by caramelizing the onions. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and soft, about 15-20 minutes. You can add a splash of water if they start to stick. Stir in thyme during the last few minutes if using.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the slider rolls horizontally through the middle, keeping them connected if possible. Place the bottom halves in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the provolone cheese over the bottom buns. Evenly distribute the roast beef over the cheese, then spread the caramelized onions on top of the beef.
- Place the remaining provolone slices over the onions, then top with the upper halves of the slider rolls.
- In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Brush this melted butter generously over the tops of the slider buns.
- Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- While the sliders bake, prepare the au jus. In a small saucepan, whisk together the au jus gravy mix with 3 cups of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until thickened, then keep warm.
- Remove the foil from the sliders and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops are lightly toasted.
- Slice and serve the sliders warm with individual cups of au jus for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions can be done in advance to save time.
- Use high-quality deli roast beef for the best flavor.
- Au jus can be seasoned with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Ingredients to make French Dip Sliders
These ingredients combine for a balance of sweet, savory, and tender elements that make French Dip Sliders so satisfying. Opting for high-quality deli meats and fresh produce enhances the overall taste and texture.
- Sweet slider rolls – Soft and slightly sweet base that holds up to the fillings without sogginess.
- Unsalted butter – Used for caramelizing onions and brushing tops for golden, flavorful buns.
- Yellow onion – Thinly sliced and caramelized for deep, sweet flavor that elevates the beef.
- Deli roast beef – Thinly sliced for tenderness; choose high-quality for best taste.
- Provolone cheese – Melts smoothly over layers, adding creamy sharpness to each slider.
- Au jus gravy mix – Base for the warm dipping sauce, quick to prepare with water.
- Water – Combines with gravy mix to create a rich, savory au jus.
- Minced fresh thyme – Optional herb stirred into onions for subtle earthy notes.
- Salt and black pepper – Seasons onions and au jus to taste for balanced flavor.
- Fresh chopped parsley – Optional garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make French Dip Sliders
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat, then add the thinly sliced yellow onion along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn deeply golden and soft, which takes about 15-20 minutes; add a splash of water if they stick. Stir in the minced fresh thyme during the last few minutes if using, for added flavor.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the 12 sweet slider rolls horizontally through the middle, keeping them connected if possible, and place the bottom halves in a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base for layering.
Step 3: Layer the Fillings
Arrange half of the provolone cheese slices over the bottom buns, then evenly distribute the thinly sliced deli roast beef on top. Spread the caramelized onions over the beef, followed by the remaining provolone slices, and finally place the top halves of the rolls over everything to complete the assembly.
Step 4: Brush and Bake Covered
Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and brush it generously over the tops of the slider buns. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly inside.
Step 5: Prepare the Au Jus
While the sliders bake, whisk the au jus gravy mix with 3 cups of water in a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until thickened, then keep it warm on low; season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Bake Uncovered and Serve
Remove the foil from the sliders and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the tops are lightly toasted. Slice the sliders into individual portions and serve warm with cups of au jus for dipping, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Caramelize Slowly: Cook onions low and slow for 15-20 minutes to achieve deep golden color and sweetness without burning.
- Quality Beef Matters: Select thinly sliced, high-quality deli roast beef to ensure tenderness and rich flavor in every bite.
- Butter Brush Evenly: Generously coat the bun tops with melted butter for a golden, crispy finish after uncovered baking.
- Au Jus Timing: Prepare the dipping sauce while sliders bake to keep everything warm and ready for serving.
How to Serve French Dip Sliders
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the warm French Dip Sliders for a bright, herby contrast that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of flaky sea salt on the toasted tops adds subtle crunch. These simple touches make the sliders look more inviting without much effort.
Side Dishes
Pair these sliders with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the savory au jus. Roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries provide a hearty, comforting accompaniment. For lighter options, try coleslaw with a tangy dressing to refresh the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the French Dip Sliders on a wooden board with small bowls of au jus in the center for easy sharing at gatherings. Stack them slightly for a towering effect that impresses guests. Serve on individual plates with toothpicks for a casual appetizer vibe, enhancing the cozy feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover French Dip Sliders in an airtight container in the fridge, where they keep well for up to three days. Wrap them individually in foil to maintain moisture. This makes it simple to grab and enjoy during the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, I freeze the assembled but unbaked sliders in a freezer-safe dish, covered tightly with plastic wrap and foil, for up to one month. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. The au jus can be frozen separately in portions for quick reheating.
Reheating
I reheat French Dip Sliders in a 350°F oven, covered with foil for 10-15 minutes to prevent drying out, restoring their melty texture. For a quicker option, use the microwave on medium power in 30-second bursts, but watch closely to avoid sogginess. Warm the au jus on the stovetop alongside for the best dip.
