There’s something undeniably comforting about a French dip sandwich, with its tender beef and savory au jus for dipping. But what happens when you replace the traditional baguette with thick, buttery Texas toast? Pure magic! These Texas Toast French Dips combine the best of both worlds – the rich, beefy goodness of a classic French dip with the satisfying crunch and buttery flavor of Texas toast.
This 45-minute meal transforms simple ingredients into a hearty dinner that feels both familiar and special. The contrast between the crispy, garlic-buttered exterior and the tender roast beef inside creates a texture experience that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This
- Perfect comfort food that combines two beloved classics in one delicious package
- Ready in just 45 minutes, making it doable even on busy weeknights
- The thick Texas toast holds up beautifully to dipping, unlike regular bread that can get soggy
- Customizable with different cheese options and toppings to please everyone
- Impressive enough for guests but simple enough for family dinner
Ingredients
- 1 box frozen garlic Texas Toast (8 slices)
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 3 cups cold water
- 1 pound sliced deli roast beef
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- Dried parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a sheet tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cook the frozen garlic Texas Toast according to package directions, typically 8 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.
- While the toast bakes, prepare the au jus gravy mix with 3 cups cold water according to package directions. Keep warm on the stovetop.
- Once the au jus is ready, add the sliced deli roast beef to the warm au jus to heat through and absorb the flavors.
- Place the baked Texas Toast on your prepared sheet tray. Top each slice with half a slice of provolone cheese as the base layer.
- Using tongs, remove the warmed roast beef from the au jus and divide evenly among all 8 pieces of toast, piling it generously on top.
- Place the remaining half slices of provolone cheese on top of the roast beef to create a melty cheese layer.
- Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden around the edges.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with dried parsley if desired. Serve immediately with small bowls of the warm au jus for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons of beef bouillon to the au jus
- Substitute Swiss or mozzarella cheese if provolone isn’t available
- Add sautéed mushrooms along with the caramelized onions for an earthier flavor
- For spice lovers, spread a thin layer of horseradish on the inside of the Texas toast
- Make it a complete meal by adding a slice of tomato and some arugula before serving
- For a time-saving hack, use store-bought garlic Texas toast from the freezer section
Serving Suggestions
These hearty Texas Toast French Dips are practically a meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with a simple side. Try serving with a crisp dill pickle spear and kettle-cooked chips for a diner-style experience. For a more balanced meal, add a side of simple coleslaw or a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the sandwich.
If you’re serving these for game day or a casual gathering, consider setting up a “dip bar” with the traditional au jus alongside other options like homemade ranch, spicy mayo, or even a tangy BBQ sauce for guests to customize their dipping experience.
Notes
- The au jus can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated when ready to serve
- For best results, use high-quality deli roast beef sliced thin
- If your Texas toast is browning too quickly, lower the oven temperature to 350°F
- These sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately while the toast is crispy and the cheese is melty
FAQs
Can I use regular bread instead of Texas toast?
While you can use regular bread, Texas toast’s thickness is ideal for dipping without falling apart. If using regular bread, toast it well before assembling.
How do I know when my onions are properly caramelized?
Properly caramelized onions should be a deep golden brown color and have a sweet, jammy consistency. This usually takes 10-15 minutes over medium heat.
Can I make this with leftover roast beef instead of deli meat?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced leftover roast beef works wonderfully and adds even more homemade flavor to the sandwiches.
Is there a way to make this ahead for a party?
You can prepare the au jus and caramelize the onions ahead of time. When ready to serve, assemble and bake the sandwiches fresh so the Texas toast maintains its crispness.
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