French Dip Sandwich: A Comfort Food Classic

Lately, I’ve been craving a French dip sandwich.  I could eat sandwiches nearly every day.  They’re just one of those foods that feel personal, satisfying, and comforting all at once.  But there’s something about a French dip that feels soul soothing. 

It starts with the meat, seasoned, juicy roast beef that’s tender enough to almost melt as you bite into it. Then there’s the provolone cheese, soft and gooey, stretching. Sometimes, I like to add caramelized onions and peppers. Other times, I want it classic and traditional–just meat, cheese, and bread.

The best part, though?  That rich, savory broth waiting patiently on the side. Once you slowly dip that bread in the au jus, it soaks it up just enough to soften without falling apart. It’s messy, but in the best way.

Here in LA, we have a famous French dip spot downtown, Felipe’s, often credited as the original place where the sandwich was invented. I remember going there once and feeling like I had stepped into sandwich heaven. The place wasn’t fancy at all. You ordered at the counter, waited for your name to be called, then carried your sandwich back to your table. The lines are usually always long, but it’s so worth the wait.

I became obsessed with this sandwich, and whenever I see it on the menu, I always order it. It’s my go-to comfort sandwich that brings me joy, contentment, and the feeling of being cared for.

Here’s my take on a classic French dip sandwich so you can enjoy that same cozy feeling at home:

French Dip Sandwich

A French dip sandwich is thinly sliced roast beef on a soft roll, often topped with melted cheese, served with a side of savory beef au jus for dipping. 

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Course: dinner, Lunch

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (from the deli or leftover roast)
• 4 hoagie rolls or French rools
• 4 slices provolone cheese
• 1 large onion rings thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 cups beef broth
• ½ cup dry red wine (optional, but adds depth)
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing onions/peppers)
• ½ cup beef drippings or pan juices (from roast beef, if available)
• ¼ tsp garlic powder or onion powder (optional for extra flavor)

Method

 

For The Au Jus

1. In a small saucepan, combine the beef broth and beef drippings.
2. Add Worcestershire sauce and any optional seasonings.
3. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
4. Keep warm until ready to serve with your French dip sandwiches.

For The Sandwich

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers and sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Split the rolls and layer with roast beef and provolone slices. If you like, add the caramelized onions and peppers. Wrap in foil and bake for 5–7 minutes until the cheese melts and the bread is warm.
3. Pour the au jus into small dipping bowls for each sandwich. Dip, savor, and enjoy.

Notes

Mindful Eating Tip: As you take a bite, notice the texture of the bread, the juiciness of the meat, and the aroma of the au jus. Let yourself fully enjoy the warmth and comfort of the moment. Eating can be a small ritual of self-care, and French dip sandwiches make it easy.

What’s your go-to comfort sandwich?

“Sometimes comfort isn’t complicated. It’s warm bread, savory beef, and something familiar to dip into.”