If you love all the juicy, melty goodness of a classic sandwich but want something a little more fun to share, you are going to fall head over heels for this French Dip Squares Recipe. Imagine layers of tender roast beef and gooey provolone cheese tucked inside flaky crescent dough, baked until golden and flaky, then served with a warm, savory au jus that’s perfect for dipping each square. These squares are just begging to be the hit at your next party or the cozy centerpiece of a weeknight meal that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and come together beautifully to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each one plays a vital role, giving the dish its hearty, cheesy, and deliciously savory character that makes French Dip Squares so irresistible.
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: This flaky, buttery dough forms the perfect golden crust that holds everything together.
- 3/4 lb deli roast beef (thinly sliced): Tender and flavorful, it’s the star protein that makes these squares hearty and satisfying.
- 8 slices provolone cheese: Melts beautifully, adding creamy richness and a mild tang that complements the beef.
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted): Brushed on top to give the crust that irresistible golden sheen and lovely flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Adds an herby, aromatic lift to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle depth and warmth to the dough top.
- For the au jus:
- 1 tablespoon butter: The base for a silky, flavorful dipping sauce.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the au jus to just the right consistency.
- 1 1/4 cups beef broth: Adds a rich, savory depth essential for perfect dipping.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings a delicious umami kick to the au jus.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavor in the dipping sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the au jus just right for your palate.
How to Make French Dip Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crescent Roll Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the dish, making sure to pinch all the seams together so it bakes up as one solid crust. This will be your buttery, flaky base that holds all the good stuff.
Step 2: Layer the Cheese and Roast Beef
Next, layer half of your provolone cheese over the dough base. Then pile on the roast beef evenly, covering all over. Finish this savory middle with the remaining provolone slices, creating a delectable, melty cheese blanket over the beef. This layering is key for ensuring every bite delivers that classic French dip flavor.
Step 3: Top with Crescent Dough and Seasoning
Now unroll the second can of crescent dough and stretch it out slightly to cover the filling completely. Press all seams together so it seals the ingredients inside during baking. Brush the top generously with melted butter, then sprinkle with dried Italian seasoning and garlic powder to add a pop of herby, garlicky goodness that perfectly complements the savory layers inside.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Puffy
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is a gorgeous golden brown and puffed up just right. That flaky, buttery crust signals it’s ready to be sliced and served hot for maximum deliciousness.
Step 5: Make the Au Jus Dipping Sauce
While the squares are baking, prepare the au jus. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This warm, savory dipping sauce is what truly makes the French Dip Squares Recipe sing.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once baked, let the squares rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into 12 pieces. Serve them warm alongside your luscious au jus dipping sauce and watch how quickly they disappear!
How to Serve French Dip Squares Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh and colorful touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives over the squares just before serving. These herbs brighten the flavors and add a lovely pop of green that makes the dish look as appetizing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
French Dip Squares pair beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or crunchy pickles to cut through the richness. For comfort-food fans, creamy coleslaw or crispy sweet potato fries are also stellar choices that complement the savory meat and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your next gathering extra special by serving these squares on a wooden cutting board with small ramekins of au jus for individual dipping. You can even set up a little “dip station” with mustard, horseradish, or a spicy aioli alongside the classic au jus for guests to customize their bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover French Dip Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the au jus separate in a small jar or container to maintain its fresh flavor and reheat just before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked squares before slicing. Wrap the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers, reheat the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through and the crust is crisp again, around 10-15 minutes. Warm the au jus gently on the stove or in the microwave and dip away!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this French Dip Squares Recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is classic for its meltiness and flavor, Swiss or mozzarella are great alternatives that also melt wonderfully and pair nicely with the roast beef.
Is it possible to make the au jus ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the au jus a day or two ahead. Store it in the fridge and gently reheat before serving to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms inside the layers elevates the flavor and adds nice texture, making your French Dip Squares even more indulgent.
Are French Dip Squares suitable for a crowd?
They sure are! This recipe makes 12 pieces, so it’s perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings. It’s easy to slice and serve, making sharing a breeze.
How do I prevent the crescent dough from getting soggy?
Pressing the dough seams tightly and baking at the right temperature ensures a flaky, golden crust. Also, letting the dish cool slightly before slicing helps keep the crust firm, rather than soggy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about sharing these warm, cheesy, beefy French Dip Squares Recipe with the people you love. It hits that perfect note of comfort food with a twist that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual night in or a festive celebration, these squares are sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation. Trust me, once you try making these, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed French dip sandwiches any other way!
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French Dip Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
French dip squares are a delicious, shareable twist on the classic French dip sandwich—featuring layers of roast beef, melty provolone cheese, and flaky crescent dough, all baked into golden squares and served with a warm, savory au jus for dipping. This versatile dish is perfect for parties, game day, or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 3/4 lb deli roast beef, thinly sliced
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Au Jus
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the baked squares.
- Assemble the base layer: Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pinching seams together to create a unified dough layer.
- Add the fillings: Layer half of the provolone cheese slices evenly over the dough, then arrange all of the thinly sliced roast beef atop the cheese. Follow with the remaining provolone slices to complete the filling layers.
- Top with second dough layer: Unroll the second can of crescent dough and stretch it gently to cover the filling completely, pressing seams together to seal the edges and hold the layers intact.
- Season and bake: Brush the top dough layer with melted butter. Sprinkle dried Italian seasoning and garlic powder evenly over the top for flavor. Bake the assembled squares in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and puffed.
- Prepare the au jus: While baking, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1 tablespoon flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder, whisking continuously. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish and serve: Remove the baked squares from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes to set. Slice into 12 squares and serve warm with the prepared au jus on the side for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute Swiss or mozzarella cheese for provolone for different flavor variations.
- For an extra layer of richness, add caramelized onions between the layers of roast beef and cheese.
- These squares are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
