Savory Texas Toast French Dip Sandwiches

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with these mouthwatering Texas Toast French Dips. This recipe takes the classic French dip sandwich to a whole new level by swapping out traditional bread for savory garlic Texas toast. The result? An open-faced masterpiece that’s not only easier to eat but also packs in more flavor in every bite.

I stumbled upon this genius creation when I was craving the rich and satisfying flavors of a French dip sandwich but wanted to skip the fuss of homemade bread. The combination of tender deli roast beef, gooey provolone cheese, and perfectly seasoned au jus gravy on top of golden, buttery Texas toast is a game-changer. Even my discerning husband, a self-proclaimed French dip connoisseur, declared these homemade Texas Toast French Dips as better than most restaurant versions.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, these Texas Toast French Dips are sure to hit the spot. Customize them with your favorite cheese or add-ons like sautéed onions or mushrooms for a personalized touch. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite in no time.

Quick Benefits

• Easier to Eat: Open-faced Texas toast base eliminates mess and makes it easier to enjoy French dip sandwiches.
• Richer Flavor: Warming roast beef in au jus enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
• Customizable: Versatile recipe allows for experimentation with different cheeses, meats, and toppings to suit personal preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Texas Toast French Dip Sandwiches Recipe

• Satisfying Twist on a Classic: Enjoy the flavors of a French dip sandwich in a more convenient and satisfying open-faced style with garlic butter Texas toast.
• Generous Meat and Cheese: Indulge in a hearty portion of roast beef and provolone cheese in every bite, creating a more substantial and flavorful experience compared to traditional sandwiches.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The Texas toast holds up well to the au jus, maintaining a crispy texture without getting soggy, while the warm roast beef in au jus enhances the overall taste.
• Versatile Customization: Experiment with different cheeses, add-ons like sautéed onions or mushrooms, or alternative deli meats to personalize your Texas toast French dips to suit your taste preferences.
• Easy to Prepare and Serve: Prep components in advance and quickly assemble when ready to eat. The au jus can be reheated, and the Texas toast can be made ahead for a convenient meal option.
• Pairs Well with Sides and Drinks: Enjoy these French dips as a standalone dinner or pair them with a side salad, crispy fries, pickles, or coleslaw. Complement the rich flavors with cold beer or iced tea for a delightful dining experience.
• Comfort Food with a Kick: Elevate the dish with a side of horseradish sauce for a spicy kick, adding an extra layer of flavor to this cozy comfort food.
• Familiar Yet Special: Experience the comfort of a classic restaurant dish in a new and improved way that combines familiar elements like roast beef and melted cheese into a fresh and special meal.

Ingredients for Savory Texas Toast French Dip Sandwiches

Main Components

• 8 slices provolone cheese
• Dried parsley for garnish (optional)
• 1 pound sliced deli roast beef
• 1 packet au jus gravy mix
• 1 box frozen garlic Texas Toast (8 slices)
• 3 cups cold water

How to Make Savory Texas Toast French Dip Sandwiches

Step 1: Prep Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a sheet tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Bake the Texas Toast

Bake the frozen garlic Texas Toast following package instructions for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.

Step 3: Make the Au Jus

Prepare au jus gravy mix with 3 cups cold water according to package instructions and keep warm on stovetop while toast bakes.

Step 4: Warm the Roast Beef

Add sliced deli roast beef to the prepared au jus to heat and absorb flavors.

Step 5: Start Assembly

Place the baked Texas Toast on a sheet tray. Add half a slice of provolone cheese on top of each slice.

Step 6: Add the Beef

Using tongs, transfer the warmed roast beef from the au jus onto the 8 pieces of toast, dividing it evenly and piling generously.

Step 7: Top with More Cheese

Layer the remaining provolone cheese slices on top of the roast beef.

Step 8: Melt the Cheese

Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Take out of the oven and optionally sprinkle with dried parsley. Serve promptly with small bowls of warm au jus for dipping.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Texas Toast French Dips, it is best to keep any leftover components separately. The au jus gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it maintains its flavors.

For the Texas toast slices, you can store any unused pieces in a resealable bag or airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can toast them in a toaster or oven until they are warm and crispy again.

If you have any leftover assembled Texas Toast French Dips, it is best to disassemble them before storing. Store the roast beef and provolone cheese in separate containers in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy again, you can quickly assemble the sandwiches and warm them in the oven until the cheese is melted and the meat is heated through. This way, you can still enjoy the flavors and textures of this delicious dish even after it’s been stored.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Texas Toast French Dips recipe, there are several ingredient substitutions you can try to customize the dish. Instead of using frozen garlic Texas toast, you can opt for plain Texas toast and add your own garlic butter spread for a more personalized flavor. If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to substitute the provolone with Swiss or sharp cheddar for a unique twist. Additionally, you can experiment with different deli meats such as turkey or pastrami to change up the flavor profile while still maintaining the essence of a French dip sandwich.

If you don’t have au jus gravy mix on hand, you can make a homemade version using beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings like garlic and onion powder. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference for a more customized au jus sauce. Lastly, if you’re looking to add extra flavor to the dish, consider incorporating sautéed onions or mushrooms to the roast beef filling or serving horseradish sauce on the side for added heat. These substitutions and additions can elevate the dish and make it even more delicious and tailored to your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider hosting a DIY Texas Toast French Dip bar at your next gathering. Set up a station with warm au jus gravy, a platter of garlic Texas toast slices, a variety of deli meats like roast beef, turkey, and pastrami, different cheeses including provolone, Swiss, and cheddar, and assorted toppings like sautéed onions, mushrooms, and horseradish sauce. Let your guests assemble their own custom French dip creations for a fun and interactive dining experience.

Another serving idea is to turn these Texas toast French dips into bite-sized appetizers for a party. Cut the toast into smaller squares or triangles, top each piece with a slice of roast beef, a dollop of au jus gravy, and a small piece of cheese. Place them on a serving platter and garnish with a sprinkle of dried parsley for a pop of color. These mini French dips are sure to be a hit with your guests as a delicious and unique party snack.

FAQs for Savory Texas Toast French Dip Sandwiches

Can I use a different type of bread besides Texas toast for this recipe?

While Texas toast works best for this recipe due to its thickness and ability to hold up to the au jus, you can experiment with other thick-cut bread options like ciabatta or French bread to see if they provide a similar result.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the deli roast beef with meat alternatives like seitan or marinated tofu slices. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of au jus gravy mix to keep the dish meat-free.

How can I prevent the Texas toast from becoming too soggy when soaking in the au jus?

To prevent the Texas toast from becoming overly soggy, you can lightly toast the bread before assembling the French dips. This extra step will help the toast maintain its structure while absorbing the flavorful au jus.

Can I freeze the assembled Texas toast French dips for later consumption?

It is not recommended to freeze the assembled Texas toast French dips as the bread may become soggy upon reheating. However, you can freeze the individual components separately and assemble fresh sandwiches when ready to enjoy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Texas Toast French Dips are an absolute game-changer when it comes to enjoying a classic French dip sandwich in a more convenient and flavorful way. The marriage of garlic butter Texas toast, succulent roast beef, and gooey melted cheese creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with loved ones, these French dips will surely hit the spot.

So next time you’re craving a comforting and hearty meal, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of these Texas Toast French Dips. With their versatility in customization and the convenience they offer, they are bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Treat yourself to a taste of restaurant-quality goodness right in your own kitchen with these delightful Texas Toast French Dips – your taste buds will thank you!