Texas Toast French Dips

This hearty twist on the classic French dip sandwich transforms ordinary garlic Texas Toast into a comfort food masterpiece. The crispy, buttery garlic bread serves as the perfect foundation for tender roast beef and melted provolone, all brought together with that essential warm au jus for dipping. What started as a creative solution to use up leftover roast beef has become one of my family's most requested weekend meals.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy Sunday when I wanted something more exciting than regular sandwiches but didn't have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of crispy garlic toast and savory au jus creates an irresistible contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 1 box frozen garlic Texas Toast (8 slices): The thick, pre-seasoned bread provides the perfect sturdy base that won't get soggy
• 1 packet au jus gravy mix: Choose a quality brand for the best flavor depth
• 3 cups cold water: For preparing the au jus according to package directions
• 1 pound sliced deli roast beef: Ask your deli counter for medium-thick slices for the best texture
• 8 slices provolone cheese: This mild cheese melts beautifully without overpowering the beef
• Dried parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herb note

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace:

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a sheet tray with parchment paper. This temperature ensures the Texas Toast gets properly crispy while preventing burning, and the parchment makes cleanup effortless.

Toast the Bread Foundation:

Cook the frozen garlic Texas Toast according to package directions, typically 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. You want each slice golden brown and completely crispy - this prevents sogginess when you add the toppings.

Create the Au Jus:

While the toast bakes, prepare the au jus gravy mix with 3 cups cold water following package directions. Keep this mixture warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent skin formation.

Warm the Beef:

Add the sliced deli roast beef directly to the warm au jus, allowing it to heat through completely and absorb those savory flavors. This step is crucial for tender, flavorful meat rather than cold deli slices.

Build the Base Layer:

Place the golden Texas Toast on your prepared sheet tray. Top each slice with half a slice of provolone cheese as your foundation layer - this creates a barrier that helps hold everything together.

Add the Star Ingredient:

Using tongs, carefully remove the warmed roast beef from the au jus and divide evenly among all 8 pieces of toast. Pile the beef generously - don't be shy here, as the hearty portion is what makes this dish special.

Create the Cheese Crown:

Place the remaining half slices of provolone cheese on top of the roast beef. This top layer will melt down over everything, creating that perfect cheese pull moment.

Final Melt:

Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden around the edges. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Serve with Style:

Remove from oven and sprinkle with dried parsley if desired. Serve immediately with small bowls of the reserved warm au jus for dipping - this is absolutely essential for the authentic French dip experience.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover components separately in the refrigerator for up to three days. The Texas Toast base will lose its crispiness once assembled, so it's best to store the roast beef in the au jus and keep the bread separate. When reheating, warm the beef mixture in a saucepan and toast fresh bread rather than trying to reheat the assembled sandwiches. The au jus can be refrigerated for up to a week and freezes beautifully for up to three months.

Smart Substitutions

While provolone is traditional, Swiss cheese makes an excellent alternative with its nutty flavor that complements the beef perfectly. If you can't find Texas Toast, thick slices of regular garlic bread work well, though you may need to adjust cooking times. For the roast beef, any quality deli meat will work, but avoid overly processed options that may become rubbery when heated. In a pinch, you can substitute beef broth with a splash of Worcestershire sauce for the au jus packet.

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Perfect Pairings

These hearty sandwiches pair beautifully with crispy French fries or onion rings for the full diner experience. A simple side salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness, while pickles provide a tangy contrast that cleanses the palate between bites. For beverages, consider serving with cold beer, iced tea, or even a robust red wine for adult gatherings.

The French Dip Legacy

The French dip sandwich has disputed origins, with both Philippe's and Cole's in Los Angeles claiming to have invented it in the early 1900s. What's not disputed is its enduring popularity as the ultimate comfort sandwich. This Texas Toast version honors that tradition while adding the beloved garlic bread element that makes everything better. The beauty lies in its simplicity - quality ingredients prepared with care create something far greater than the sum of their parts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, homemade garlic bread works well as a substitute—just ensure it's thick enough to hold the toppings and stays crispy.

→ What type of roast beef should I use?

Deli-style roast beef that's thinly sliced is ideal. Choose high-quality cuts for the best texture and flavor.

→ Can I prepare the au jus from scratch?

Absolutely. Use beef broth, a splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire, and garlic to create a homemade version if desired.

→ How do I keep the toast from getting soggy?

Make sure to bake the toast until crispy before assembling and serve immediately after melting the cheese.

→ Is there a cheese alternative to provolone?

Swiss or mozzarella are great substitutes if you prefer a different melt or flavor profile.