If you’re a fan of the classic French Dip sandwich, you’re going to love these French Dip Squares. This delicious and easy-to-make recipe brings all the flavors of the beloved sandwich into a convenient, shareable dish perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners. Combining layers of flaky crescent roll dough, savory roast beef, melted Swiss cheese, and a delectable onion soup glaze, these squares are sure to become a favorite. The added bonus of a warm beef broth dipping sauce takes this dish to the next level, making it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a cozy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1/2 pound of deli sliced roast beef
- 1 cup of grated Swiss cheese
- 1 packet of dry onion soup mix
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 cup of beef broth for dipping
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures that the oven reaches the ideal temperature by the time your dish is ready to bake.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and spray it lightly with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the crescent rolls from sticking to the dish and make cleanup much easier.
Step 2: Assemble the Base Layer
Roll Out the Crescent Dough: Open one can of refrigerated crescent rolls. Unroll the dough and spread it across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Gently pinch together any seams to create a solid layer of dough. This will form the base of your French Dip Squares.
Step 3: Add the Filling
Layer the Roast Beef: Evenly distribute the deli-sliced roast beef over the crescent roll dough. The savory beef will provide the classic French Dip flavor.
Sprinkle the Cheese: Next, sprinkle one cup of grated Swiss cheese over the layer of roast beef. The cheese will melt beautifully and add a rich, creamy texture to the dish.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Glaze
Mix the Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the dry onion soup mix, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix these ingredients until they are well combined. The glaze will add a burst of flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Drizzle the Glaze: Drizzle the prepared glaze evenly over the cheese layer. This will not only add flavor but also help the cheese melt and integrate with the beef.
Step 5: Top with the Final Dough Layer
Roll Out the Second Crescent Dough: Open the second can of crescent rolls and unroll the dough. Carefully place it over the top of the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Pinch together any seams to create a cohesive top layer. This will enclose the filling and create a flaky, golden crust once baked.
Step 6: Bake and Prepare Dipping Sauce
Bake the French Dip Squares: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the squares are cooked through. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the dish to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Prepare the Beef Broth Dipping Sauce: While the French Dip Squares are baking, pour one cup of beef broth into a small pot and heat it over medium heat until warmed through. This savory dipping sauce will be the perfect accompaniment to your squares.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Cool and Cut the Squares: Once the French Dip Squares are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. This will make them easier to cut and handle. Using a sharp knife, slice the dish into squares of your desired size.
Serve: Arrange the French Dip Squares on a serving platter and serve them alongside the warmed beef broth dipping sauce. Encourage your guests to dip the squares into the broth for the full French Dip experience.
Variations:
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some variations and tips to help you customize your French Dip Squares to suit your taste:
Cheese Variations
- Provolone Cheese: For a different flavor profile, try using provolone cheese instead of Swiss cheese. Provolone has a mild, creamy taste that pairs well with roast beef.
- Cheddar Cheese: If you prefer a sharper flavor, opt for cheddar cheese. It will add a bold taste and a vibrant color to the dish.
Additional Toppings
- Sautéed Onions and Mushrooms: Add a layer of sautéed onions and mushrooms between the roast beef and cheese layers. This will add a depth of flavor and a satisfying texture to the squares.
- Horseradish Sauce: Spread a thin layer of horseradish sauce over the roast beef before adding the cheese. The horseradish will add a spicy kick that complements the beef.
Dipping Sauce Alternatives
- Au Jus: Instead of beef broth, prepare a traditional au jus dipping sauce. Use the drippings from a roast or a store-bought au jus mix for a more authentic French Dip experience.
- Garlic Butter Dip: Create a garlic butter dipping sauce by melting butter and adding minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. This rich dip is a delicious alternative to beef broth.