Name: French Dip Grilled Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices crusty French bread; 8 slices Swiss cheese; 12 ounces thinly sliced roast beef; 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for spreading; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 sprig fresh thyme; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Introduction

The French Dip Grilled Cheese is a delicious twist on two classic favorites: the French dip sandwich and the grilled cheese. Combining caramelized onions, savory roast beef, and melted Swiss cheese with a warm, flavorful au jus for dipping makes this sandwich irresistible. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.

A close-up view of a grilled sandwich cut in half and stacked, showing three main layers inside two slices of golden-brown crusted bread with a crispy texture. The bottom layer contains thin slices of dark brown cooked meat, followed by a middle layer of melted white cheese stretched between the halves. On top of the cheese, caramelized onions add a shiny, soft texture with a light golden color. The sandwich sits on a white plate with a small white cup of dark dipping sauce in the background on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 slices crusty French bread

8 slices Swiss cheese

12 ounces thinly sliced roast beef

2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for spreading

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cups low-sodium beef broth

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1 garlic clove, minced

1 sprig fresh thyme

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté, stirring frequently, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 12 to 15 minutes. Transfer the onions to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Wipe the skillet clean. In a small saucepan, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and the sprig of thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then strain the au jus through a fine strainer and keep warm.

Step 3: On a clean work surface, arrange 4 slices of the French bread. Layer each slice with 1 slice of Swiss cheese, a generous portion of roast beef, some caramelized onions, and then a second slice of Swiss cheese. Top each sandwich with the remaining bread slices.

Step 4: Spread unsalted butter evenly on the outsides of each sandwich to ensure a golden, crispy exterior when grilled.

Step 5: Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill each sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is crisp and golden and the cheese has melted.

Step 6: Slice the sandwiches in half and serve immediately with the warm au jus on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine or a few drops of hot sauce to the au jus.

Substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère or provolone for a different cheesy note.

Use caramelized shallots instead of onions for a sweeter, more delicate topping.

Try adding a few slices of sautéed mushrooms to the sandwich for added texture.

Storage

Store any leftover au jus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated tightly wrapped for up to 1 day. Reheat the sandwich in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness and melt the cheese again, or warm gently in the oven wrapped in foil.

FAQs

Can I make the au jus ahead of time?

Yes, the au jus can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for several days. Reheat gently before serving.

What type of bread works best for this sandwich?

Crusty French bread or a baguette works best because it toasts well, holds up to dipping, and complements the sandwich’s hearty filling.