Delicious French Dip Squares are a fun, easy way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic French dip sandwich in a bite-sized form. Imagine tender roast beef, melted cheese, and a soft, chewy bread base, all coming together with a rich, savory broth perfect for dipping. It’s like having the best of a French dip sandwich without the mess!
I love making these squares for casual get-togethers or game days because they’re so simple to prepare but always a hit. I usually mix the beef right into the cheesy bread before baking, so every bite is packed with flavor. A tip I’ve learned is to save that dipping jus—it really takes the whole snack to the next level, making each square juicy and delicious.
Serving these squares warm with a small bowl of warm au jus for dipping is my favorite way to enjoy them. They’re perfect for sharing and so much easier to eat than a regular sandwich. Plus, they make a great party appetizer or a cozy weeknight treat when you want something comforting but not too heavy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Biscuit or Focaccia Dough: Biscuit dough makes soft, fluffy squares, while focaccia gives a chewier, more bread-like texture. You can also use pizza dough or crescent roll dough if you want a similar base.
Roast Beef: Use thinly sliced deli roast beef for convenience or leftovers from a roast. If you prefer, shredded slow-cooked beef works well too. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken can substitute.
Provolone Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds mild flavor. Mozzarella or Swiss cheese are good alternatives if you want a different taste or if provolone isn’t available.
Butter and Seasonings: The garlic, thyme, and onion powder in the butter topping add great flavor to the crust. Fresh herbs work nicely but dried are more convenient and still tasty.
Au Jus Sauce: Beef broth is key for that rich dipping sauce. If broth is limited, a mix of broth and water with soy and Worcestershire sauce boosts flavor well.
How Do I Get the Perfect Soft Yet Crispy Crust on French Dip Squares?
Balancing a soft inside with a golden top crust is key to these squares. Here’s how:
- Press dough evenly into the pan to ensure even baking—don’t stretch it too thin.
- Brush the melted butter mixture on the top dough layer generously to help it brown and crisp up.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) so the meat inside heats through without burning the crust.
- Let the squares cool for a few minutes before cutting; this helps set the layers and keeps the crust intact.
Following these steps gives you tender, cheesy insides with a nicely browned, flavorful crust every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect size to hold all the layers and make slicing easy.
- Mixing bowls – For stirring the butter mixture and preparing the sauce.
- Brush or spoon – To evenly distribute the butter mixture over the dough for a golden crust.
- Oven – To bake the squares until bubbly and golden brown.
- Saucepan – For warming up the au jus dipping sauce.
- Knife and cutting board – To cut the baked squares into perfect pieces for serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef for thinly sliced ham, turkey, or cooked chicken for a different protein option.
- Use Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella cheese instead of provolone for a varied cheesy flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted peppers inside for extra veggies and flavor.
- Spice things up with a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños mixed into the beef or cheese layers.
Delicious French Dip Squares
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough or focaccia bread dough
- 1 lb cooked roast beef, thinly sliced or shredded
- 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
For the Au Jus Dipping Sauce:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll also need a few minutes to make the dipping sauce while the squares bake. Overall, expect around 40-45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish and Dough:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. If you’re using biscuit dough, press it evenly into the bottom of the dish to create your crust. If you prefer focaccia dough, roll it out to fit the pan.
2. Layer the Beef and Cheese:
Spread the cooked roast beef evenly over the dough layer. Next, add the provolone cheese evenly on top of the beef, making sure it’s all covered with cheesy goodness!
3. Add the Top Dough Layer and Butter Mixture:
If using biscuit dough, flatten the remaining dough and place it over the cheese and beef layers to seal everything in. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the top dough to create a golden, tasty crust.
4. Bake and Make the Au Jus Sauce:
Bake your French Dip Squares for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly. While baking, prepare the au jus by combining the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and adjust seasoning to your liking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the squares cool a bit so they hold together when cut. Cut into squares or rectangles and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Serve warm with bowls of au jus sauce for dipping each tasty bite!
Can I Use Frozen or Leftover Roast Beef?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw frozen roast beef completely in the fridge overnight and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture. Leftovers work great and keep the squares tasty and tender.
Can I Make French Dip Squares Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the squares and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed. You can also bake in advance and reheat gently in the oven before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any uneaten squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm, and enjoy with freshly heated au jus.
What Can I Use Instead of Provolone Cheese?
Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese are excellent substitutes that melt nicely and complement the beef and bread flavors well.
