Texas Toast French Dips

These Texas toast French dips became my answer when I was craving those amazing French dip sandwiches from restaurants but didn't want to deal with making traditional bread or the mess of assembly. Using garlic butter Texas toast as the base creates this incredible open-faced sandwich that's way easier to eat and somehow even more satisfying than the original. I discovered this recipe when I had leftover deli roast beef and was looking for something more exciting than regular sandwiches and now it's become our family's go to comfort food dinner.

Ingredients

• Frozen garlic Texas toast: adds buttery garlicky flavor and cuts down prep time
• Packet au jus mix: gives great flavor fast and saves time compared to homemade gravy
• Deli roast beef: the centerpiece of the dish go for freshly sliced good quality beef
• Provolone cheese: melts evenly with a mild creamy flavor
• Open faced style: easier to eat and lets the ingredients shine visually and flavor wise

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Starting the base:

Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange frozen garlic Texas toast in a single layer. Bake according to package directions flipping halfway through until both sides are golden and crispy. Mine took about 8 minutes total.

Making the au jus:

In a saucepan mix the au jus packet with cold water per the package instructions. Heat until it reaches a simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the mix dissolves completely. This shortcut still gives you a rich flavorful dipping sauce.

Warming the beef:

Once the au jus is hot add the deli roast beef slices directly into the pot. Let them warm gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This adds deep flavor to the meat and avoids the dryness of separate reheating.

Building the French dips:

Place half a slice of provolone cheese on each baked Texas toast slice. Layer warmed roast beef on top spreading evenly. Add the second half of cheese slices over the beef so it melts into everything beautifully.

Final melting:

Return the assembled toasts to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes. Watch closely and remove once the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Garnish with dried parsley if desired then serve hot with a small bowl of au jus on the side.

I learned that warming the roast beef in the au jus instead of separately makes a huge difference in flavor. My first attempt with cold meat was disappointing but now I always heat it in the gravy and get perfect results every time.

Perfect Serving Ideas

These sandwiches are filling enough for a main course but also pair great with light sides like a crunchy salad or some crispy fries. I often serve them with pickle spears or tangy coleslaw to cut the richness. For drinks cold iced tea or a crisp beer round out the meal perfectly.

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Making Them Different

Switching the cheese to Swiss or sharp cheddar adds new flavors. I sometimes sauté onions or mushrooms to add on top of the beef. You can also try turkey or pastrami instead of roast beef. Horseradish sauce or spicy mustard on the side gives an extra kick for heat lovers.

Storage and Reheating

Best enjoyed fresh but you can prep in stages. Cook the toast in advance and warm it up in the oven before assembling. Au jus stores well in the fridge and can be reheated gently on the stove. Assemble and bake just before serving for ideal texture.

Recipe Questions

Can I use homemade garlic bread instead of frozen Texas Toast Absolutely Just make sure it's thick and sturdy enough to hold the toppings Brush thick bread slices with garlic butter and toast until golden

What can I substitute for the au jus packet You can use beef broth with a splash of Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce or make homemade au jus from beef drippings if you have them

Can I use different types of cheese Yes Swiss cheese is traditional for French dips but mozzarella cheddar or even Gruyere would work well Choose a good melting cheese

How do I prevent the Texas Toast from getting soggy Make sure the toast is crispy before adding toppings and don't let the roast beef sit in the au jus too long before assembling

Can I make these ahead of time It's best to serve these immediately for the crispiest results but you can prep all components ahead and assemble just before the final baking step

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade garlic bread instead of frozen Texas toast?

Yes, just make sure the bread is thick and sturdy enough to hold the toppings. Brush with garlic butter and toast until golden for the best results.

→ What can I substitute for the au jus packet?

You can use beef broth mixed with Worcestershire and soy sauce, or make homemade au jus from beef drippings if available.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely. Swiss, mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyere are great melting cheeses that work well with this dish.

→ How do I prevent the Texas toast from getting soggy?

Make sure the toast is crisp before adding toppings and avoid letting the roast beef sit in the au jus too long before assembling.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

It's best to serve immediately for crispiness, but you can prep components ahead and assemble just before baking.