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French Dip Squares come together quickly and deliver all the rich flavors of a classic French dip sandwich in an easy handheld form perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of savory roast beef, melted Swiss cheese, and an onion soup seasoned butter sauce baked inside flaky crescent rolls means you get comforting, melty goodness with every bite. This recipe is one I reach for when I want something crowd-pleasing but fuss-free that pairs perfectly with a warm bowl of beef broth for dipping.
I discovered this recipe when craving a cozy take on French dip sandwiches but without all the assembly and mess. It quickly became a go-to for sharing with friends on busy nights.
Ingredients
- Two cans of refrigerated crescent rolls: provide a buttery, flaky crust and top layer. Look for crescent rolls with minimal preservatives for the best texture and taste.
- Half a pound of deli-sliced roast beef: makes for tender, flavorful filling. Choose thin slices that layer evenly and are fresh from the deli counter.
- One cup of grated Swiss cheese: melts beautifully and adds a mild nutty flavor. Freshly grated cheese works best to ensure even melting.
- One packet of dry onion soup mix: seasons the butter topping providing savory depth without extra chopping or prep. Pick a brand you like the taste of as this really sets the flavor tone.
- A quarter cup of melted butter: binds the soup mix and infuses richness throughout the bake. Use real butter for the best flavor.
- One teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce: adds a subtle tangy umami boost to the butter mixture.
- Half a teaspoon of garlic powder: enhances the savory notes without overpowering the other flavors.
- One cup of beef broth: served warm alongside the squares acts as a flavorful dip reminiscent of classic French dip au jus. Use a good quality broth, homemade or store-bought, low sodium if you like.
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Unroll one can of crescent rolls and press it firmly into the dish forming an even bottom layer. Be sure to press seams together well so no filling leaks beneath the crust.
- Add The Filling:
- Layer your deli roast beef slices evenly over the dough base, covering the surface. Then sprinkle a generous cup of grated Swiss cheese on top of the meat. This layering ensures every bite will be balanced with beef and melty cheese.
- Prepare And Drizzle The Sauce:
- In a small bowl mix together the dry onion soup mix, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. This rich flavorful sauce will soak slightly into the crescent rolls while baking. Drizzle evenly over the cheese layer covering the entire surface.
- Top With Dough:
- Roll out the second can of crescent rolls and place it carefully over the filling. Pinch and seal the seams all around to create a smooth top crust that will stay sealed during baking.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the crescent roll topping is puffed and golden brown and fully baked through.
- Heat The Dipping Broth:
- While the squares bake, warm the beef broth gently in a small saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Keep hot to serve alongside for dipping.
- Cool And Cut:
- Once baked, let the dish cool slightly to allow the filling to set a bit. Cut into squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- Serve And Enjoy:
- Serve the warm squares immediately with bowls of hot beef broth so everyone can dip and enjoy the savory juicy flavors.
I love how the buttery, savory sauce soaks into the crescent rolls creating a tender, flavorful crust. This recipe brings back memories of casual family gatherings where everyone fought over the last square because they were that good.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to revive the crispiness of the crescent roll topping. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap Swiss cheese for provolone or mozzarella if you prefer a milder or stretchier melt Use turkey or ham in place of roast beef for a different filling twist Try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions inside for extra flavor depth
Serving Ideas
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal Offer mustard or horseradish sauce alongside for extra zing Perfect finger food for parties served with small bowls of beef broth for dipping
These French Dip Squares provide a comforting and easy meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious combination with warm beef broth for dipping.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of bread dough is used here?
Refrigerated crescent roll dough provides a flaky and golden crust that bakes quickly and holds the fillings well.
- → Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
Gruyère or mozzarella can be used as alternatives, offering a similar melt and mild, creamy texture.
- → What does the onion soup mix add to the dish?
It infuses a savory, slightly tangy depth that enhances the beef and cheese layers, creating rich flavor complexity.
- → How should the beef broth be served?
Warm the beef broth gently and serve it alongside the baked squares for dipping, adding moisture and an umami boost.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the squares and refrigerate before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time when ready.
- → What’s the best way to cut the squares?
Let the baked squares cool slightly to set, then cut with a sharp knife into even portions for easy serving.