French Dip Sliders Recipe

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Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Sliders:

• 1 (12-count) package slider buns
• 9 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 pound sliced deli roast beef
• 9 slices Gruyere cheese
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley

Au Jus:

• 1 1/2 cups beef bone broth
• 1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping them attached. Place the bottom halves in the prepared dish.
3. In a heavy skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and softened, about 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Layer the roast beef evenly over the bottom buns, followed by a layer of Gruyere cheese. Top with the caramelized onions, then place the top halves of the buns on.
5. Melt the remaining butter and mix in the garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and dried parsley. Brush this mixture over the tops of the buns.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops of the buns are golden and the cheese has melted.
7. While the sliders are baking, prepare the au jus. In a small saucepan, combine the beef bone broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and fish sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
8. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a smooth slurry. Add this to the simmering broth and stir until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes.
9. Once the sliders are done, serve them hot with the au jus on the side for dipping.

Cook's Note

The Gruyere cheese is creamy and melts beautifully, making it the perfect choice for these sliders. The addition of fish sauce in the au jus brings a deep umami flavor without overpowering the dish with a fishy taste.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 702
• Total Fat: 37g (48% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 21g (104% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 131mg (44% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1944mg (85% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 54g (19% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 37g (75% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (4% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 616mg (47% Daily Value)
• Iron: 5mg (30% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 793mg (17% Daily Value)

The Story Behind French Dip Sliders

The French Dip sandwich, the inspiration for these sliders, traces its roots back to the early 20th century in Los Angeles, California. While the exact origin is debated, many credit either Philippes or Coles, two historic eateries, with its invention around 1918. The original concept was simple: thinly sliced roast beef served on a French roll with a side of savory au jus for dipping. The sliders adaptation transforms this classic into bite-sized portions, making it ideal for gatherings, parties, or casual meals.

Regional Characteristics

Although originating in Southern California, French Dip Sliders have gained popularity across the United States. In California, they often feature fresh, locally baked rolls and a lightly caramelized onion topping. In contrast, in other regions, variations may include different cheeses such as Swiss or cheddar, or enriched au jus with herbs and soy sauce for added depth. The sliders size and presentation reflect a more contemporary, casual dining style typical of American appetizer culture.

How They Differ from Similar Dishes

While French Dip Sliders share some similarities with cheesesteak sandwiches or roast beef melts, they are distinct due to the inclusion of a separate dipping sauce, the au jus. Unlike a typical sandwich, the slider is not fully saturated with sauce but served alongside, preserving the texture of the bun and the beef. The use of Gruyere cheese adds a creamy, nutty flavor not commonly found in other beef sliders, while caramelized onions bring a subtle sweetness that balances the savory beef.

Where They Are Commonly Served

French Dip Sliders are versatile, appearing on restaurant appetizer menus, at sports bars, and at catered events. They are especially popular at parties and social gatherings where finger foods are preferred. The compact size allows for easy sharing, and the interactive aspect of dipping each slider into the warm au jus adds a playful, communal dining experience. Upscale bistros may offer gourmet versions with artisanal breads and premium roast beef, elevating a casual classic into a refined treat.

Interesting Facts

• The term French in French Dip does not refer to France; it comes from the use of French rolls.
• Gruyere cheese, a key ingredient in sliders, is known for its excellent melting properties and distinctive nutty flavor.
• Au jus literally means with juice in French, and it is a concentrated beef broth used for dipping.
• French Dip Sliders are an excellent example of how classic dishes can be miniaturized without losing their signature flavors.
• The sliders bite-size format makes them particularly appealing for tasting menus, allowing multiple flavors to be sampled in one sitting.

FAQ about French Dip Sliders Recipe

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