There’s something magical about a French dip sandwich—the way the tender, juicy beef is layered between a soft, crispy roll and dipped into a rich, savory au jus. It’s the perfect marriage of flavors and textures that makes this sandwich an iconic comfort food. But what if you could take all those beloved elements and transform them into a bite-sized, handheld delight? Enter the French Dip Biscuits, a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, packed with all the flavors you love but in a buttery, flaky biscuit form.
These French Dip Biscuits are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a game day party, serving them as a snack for the family, or making them the star of your dinner table. With tender, shredded beef nestled between layers of flaky biscuit dough and melted cheese, and served with a warm, flavorful au jus for dipping, these biscuits are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re easy to make and bake up beautifully in the oven.
If you’re a fan of indulgent comfort food that’s easy to prepare but feels like a gourmet treat, these French Dip Biscuits are a must-try. The best part? You can customize them to suit your taste by adding different cheeses, herbs, or even a splash of horseradish for a little kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Savory Flavor: The tender beef paired with melted cheese and buttery biscuits makes for an irresistible flavor combination.
- Perfect for Entertaining: These bite-sized biscuits are great for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings—easy to serve and even easier to eat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the beef filling ahead of time and assemble the biscuits when you’re ready to bake.
- Family-Friendly: Who doesn’t love biscuits? The kids will love the cheesy, beefy filling, and the adults will appreciate the rich au jus for dipping.
- Customizable: Change up the cheese, add caramelized onions, or throw in some mushrooms—there are plenty of ways to make this recipe your own.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes (plus 2-3 hours for slow cooking the beef)
- Total time: 50 minutes (plus slow cooking time)
- Yield: 12 biscuits
- Serving Size: 1 biscuit
Nutritional Information (per biscuit)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
(Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 ½ pounds chuck roast or any cut of beef suitable for slow cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Biscuits:
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands or any brand you like)
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Au Jus:
- Drippings from the beef
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
1. Sear the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned. This step locks in the flavors and gives the beef a rich, caramelized crust.
2. Slow Cook the Beef:
Once seared, transfer the beef to a slow cooker. Add the onions, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easy to shred. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours.
3. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is done cooking, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker to keep it warm and soaking in the flavorful juices.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Separate the Biscuit Dough:
Open the can of biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Use your hands or a rolling pin to gently flatten each biscuit slightly, making them large enough to hold the filling.
3. Assemble the Biscuits:
Place a small amount of the shredded beef in the center of each biscuit (about 1-2 tablespoons). Top the beef with a half slice of provolone or Swiss cheese. Fold the biscuit dough over the beef and cheese, pinching the edges together to seal the filling inside. You can gently press the seams with a fork to ensure they’re closed.
Step 3: Bake the Biscuits
1. Brush with Butter:
Melt the butter and stir in the garlic powder. Brush the tops of each biscuit with the garlic butter mixture to give them a golden, flavorful crust.
2. Bake:
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
3. Garnish:
For an extra touch, sprinkle the baked biscuits with a little dried parsley or fresh herbs as soon as they come out of the oven.
Step 4: Make the Au Jus
1. Collect the Drippings:
While the biscuits are baking, strain the juices from the slow cooker into a small saucepan. Add the extra beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce.
2. Simmer the Au Jus:
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce slightly for about 5-7 minutes to concentrate the flavors. Taste and season with salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the biscuits are done baking, serve them warm with a side of the au jus for dipping. The buttery, flaky biscuit crust soaks up the flavorful beef drippings, creating a perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and rich flavors in every bite.
How to Serve French Dip Biscuits
French Dip Biscuits can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some ideas:
- As a Party Appetizer: These biscuits are great as bite-sized appetizers for any gathering. Serve them on a platter with small bowls of au jus for dipping.
- As a Main Course: Pair them with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For Game Day: Serve these biscuits alongside other game day favorites like wings, nachos, and sliders.
- With a Soup: Pair these savory biscuits with a bowl of French onion soup or beef stew for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Additional Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Cheese: The cheese is a key component of these biscuits, so use a high-quality provolone or Swiss cheese that melts well.
- Don’t Overstuff the Biscuits: It’s tempting to add more beef and cheese, but overstuffing can cause the biscuits to burst open while baking. Stick to 1-2 tablespoons of filling per biscuit for the best results.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: This step adds extra flavor to the biscuits and helps them turn a beautiful golden brown. You can also add a pinch of Parmesan cheese to the butter mixture for an even richer taste.
- Use Leftover Roast Beef: If you have leftover pot roast or shredded beef from a previous meal, you can use it in this recipe instead of slow-cooking the beef from scratch.
- Freeze for Later: You can freeze the baked biscuits and reheat them in the oven for a quick snack or appetizer whenever the craving strikes.
Recipe Variations
1. Caramelized Onion French Dip Biscuits:
For an extra layer of flavor, add caramelized onions to the beef filling. To make caramelized onions, cook sliced onions in butter over low heat for about 20-30 minutes until they’re soft and golden.
2. French Dip Breakfast Biscuits:
Turn this into a breakfast dish by adding a scrambled egg and crispy bacon to the filling. It’s a fun twist on breakfast sandwiches with a savory, beefy bite.
3. Spicy French Dip Biscuits:
Add some heat by mixing diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the beef filling. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for an extra kick.
4. French Dip Sliders:
Instead of using individual biscuits, you can make this recipe using slider buns. Assemble them with beef and cheese, then bake in the oven until the cheese melts. Serve with au jus on the side.
5. Vegetarian French Dip Biscuits:
For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with sautéed mushrooms and onions. Use vegetable broth for the au jus, and you’ll have a satisfying meatless option that’s just as delicious.
Freezing and Storage
Storing Leftovers:
Store leftover French Dip Biscuits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Freezing the Biscuits:
You can freeze the baked biscuits for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake the frozen biscuits at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Freezing the Beef Filling:
If you want to prepare the beef filling in advance, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Store the shredded beef in a freezer-safe container or bag, and when ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it in a saucepan with a little beef broth before assembling the biscuits.
Special Equipment
- Slow Cooker: To cook the beef low and slow, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
- Baking Sheet: For baking the biscuits evenly in the oven.
- Pastry Brush: To brush the biscuits with garlic butter for a golden, flavorful crust.
- Tongs: To handle the shredded beef easily when assembling the biscuits.
- Sharp Knife or Kitchen Shears: To cut the biscuit dough and cheese slices evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef filling and assemble the biscuits up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Swiss, provolone, or even mozzarella all work well in this recipe. Choose a cheese that melts smoothly and complements the savory beef.
3. Can I make the biscuits from scratch?
If you prefer homemade biscuits, you can certainly use your favorite biscuit dough recipe. Just roll out the dough and follow the same assembly instructions.
4. Can I use pre-cooked roast beef?
Yes, if you have leftover roast beef, you can use it in this recipe. Simply shred the beef and mix it with a little beef broth to keep it moist.
5. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make these French Dip Biscuits gluten-free, use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure all other ingredients, like the beef broth and soy sauce, are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
These French Dip Biscuits are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and buttery goodness. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. The tender, shredded beef pairs perfectly with the melted cheese and flaky biscuit layers, while the rich au jus takes every bite to the next level. With so many customization options and a straightforward preparation process, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Enjoy them fresh from the oven with a side of warm au jus for dipping, and don’t be surprised if they disappear in minutes!
PrintFrench Dip Biscuits
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus slow cooking time)
- Yield: 12 biscuits 1x
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 ½ pounds chuck roast or any cut of beef suitable for slow cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Biscuits:
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands or any brand you like)
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Au Jus:
- Drippings from the beef
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
1. Sear the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned. This step locks in the flavors and gives the beef a rich, caramelized crust.
2. Slow Cook the Beef:
Once seared, transfer the beef to a slow cooker. Add the onions, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easy to shred. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours.
3. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is done cooking, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker to keep it warm and soaking in the flavorful juices.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Separate the Biscuit Dough:
Open the can of biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Use your hands or a rolling pin to gently flatten each biscuit slightly, making them large enough to hold the filling.
3. Assemble the Biscuits:
Place a small amount of the shredded beef in the center of each biscuit (about 1-2 tablespoons). Top the beef with a half slice of provolone or Swiss cheese. Fold the biscuit dough over the beef and cheese, pinching the edges together to seal the filling inside. You can gently press the seams with a fork to ensure they’re closed.
Step 3: Bake the Biscuits
1. Brush with Butter:
Melt the butter and stir in the garlic powder. Brush the tops of each biscuit with the garlic butter mixture to give them a golden, flavorful crust.
2. Bake:
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
3. Garnish:
For an extra touch, sprinkle the baked biscuits with a little dried parsley or fresh herbs as soon as they come out of the oven.
Step 4: Make the Au Jus
1. Collect the Drippings:
While the biscuits are baking, strain the juices from the slow cooker into a small saucepan. Add the extra beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce.
2. Simmer the Au Jus:
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce slightly for about 5-7 minutes to concentrate the flavors. Taste and season with salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the biscuits are done baking, serve them warm with a side of the au jus for dipping. The buttery, flaky biscuit crust soaks up the flavorful beef drippings, creating a perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and rich flavors in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (plus 2-3 hours for slow cooking the beef)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 biscuit
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g