French dip sandwiches have long been a favorite comfort food, beloved for their rich flavors and satisfying combination of roast beef, melted cheese, and warm broth for dipping. Originating from Los Angeles in the early 20th century, French dip sandwiches offer a savory, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Traditionally served as a sandwich on a French roll, the dish became popular for its unique dipping experience in flavorful beef broth, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

Now, there’s a fun, convenient twist on this classic: French Dip Squares. This variation transforms the sandwich into a shareable, bite-sized dish that’s perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners. Instead of assembling individual sandwiches, French Dip Squares use crescent rolls as a base and top layer, sandwiching thin slices of deli roast beef and Swiss cheese in between. The entire dish is baked until golden and served alongside a warm beef broth for dipping, keeping the spirit of the French dip alive while offering a new format that’s easier to prepare and share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the main appeals of French Dip Squares is how simple they are to make. With just a handful of ingredients—refrigerated crescent rolls, deli-sliced roast beef, and grated cheese—you can have a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time. The recipe is quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. It works equally well as a snack or a meal and is perfect for parties or casual dinners. The crescent rolls give it a homemade feel, while using store-bought ingredients like deli roast beef and pre-made dough keeps the process easy and stress-free. It’s a fun, shareable twist on a classic favorite that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients Breakdown

Canned Refrigerated Crescent Rolls

Crescent rolls are a versatile and convenient option for recipes that need a flaky, buttery pastry. In this recipe, they serve as both the base and top layer, forming the “sandwich” around the roast beef and cheese. Their light, tender texture is perfect for creating a golden, crispy exterior without requiring the time and effort of making dough from scratch.

Alternatives: If you prefer a different texture or have homemade dough on hand, puff pastry can be a good substitute, offering a flakier, more delicate result. For those who want a heartier bite, homemade pizza dough or biscuit dough can also be used, though the texture will be less airy.

Deli-Sliced Roast Beef

The quality of roast beef is crucial to this dish’s flavor. Good deli-sliced roast beef should be tender and well-seasoned, as it is the star ingredient. Leaner cuts of roast beef offer a cleaner, lighter taste, while fattier cuts can provide more richness. The thickness of the slices also matters—thin slices work best here to ensure even distribution across the dish without making the filling too heavy.

Choosing the Best: Opt for freshly sliced roast beef from the deli counter rather than pre-packaged versions if possible. Look for medium-thin slices to avoid overwhelming the delicate crescent dough.

Grated Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is a fantastic choice for this recipe because it melts smoothly and adds a mild, nutty flavor that complements the savory beef. It’s a classic pairing for French dips, enhancing the richness without overpowering the other ingredients.

Alternatives: For different flavor profiles, provolone offers a mild, creamy alternative, while cheddar adds a sharper, tangy taste. Mozzarella is also a good option for a more neutral, stretchy texture.

Dry Onion Soup Mix

Dry onion soup mix is a convenient and flavorful ingredient, adding a burst of onion flavor without the need for fresh onions. It combines perfectly with butter and Worcestershire sauce to create a savory sauce that infuses the crescent rolls with flavor as they bake.

Substitutes: If you prefer a more homemade touch, you can sauté fresh onions with garlic, or make your own spice blend with dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and herbs. This allows you to control the salt content and flavor balance.

Melted Butter and Worcestershire Sauce

This combination brings depth and richness to the dish, with the butter adding moisture and the Worcestershire sauce delivering a complex umami flavor. Together, they create a savory sauce that complements the beef and cheese while enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Variations: You can add Dijon mustard for a tangy kick, or mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more fragrant twist. A splash of soy sauce can also deepen the umami flavor if you’re looking to enhance the savory notes even further.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder provides a subtle, savory boost to the dish, blending well with the other seasonings without overpowering the delicate flavors of the cheese and beef.

Other Seasoning Options: If you want more complexity, you can use onion powder, Italian seasoning, or even smoked paprika for a touch of heat and smokiness. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also be sprinkled on top for added freshness.

Beef Broth for Dipping

The beef broth is a key element of the traditional French dip experience, providing the signature dipping sauce that enhances the richness of the beef and cheese. It adds moisture and brings all the flavors together when you dip the crispy squares into the warm broth.

Tips for Enhancing the Broth: To make a more flavorful dipping sauce, you can simmer the broth with a beef bouillon cube, a splash of red wine, or even a bit of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth. Adding herbs like thyme or a bay leaf while heating the broth can also boost its flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions with Tips

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

The first step is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the oven reaches the correct temperature before you begin baking, which is crucial for even cooking. If you place your dish in a cold or under-heated oven, the crescent rolls may not rise properly, resulting in uneven texture and browning.

While the oven heats, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. This will prevent the crescent rolls from sticking to the bottom, making it easier to remove the squares once baked. Make sure to coat the sides of the dish as well to ensure the top layer of dough doesn’t adhere to the edges.

Roll Out the Crescent Dough Base

Open the first can of refrigerated crescent roll dough and unroll it onto a flat surface. Crescent roll dough can be sticky and fragile, so handle it carefully. Gently press the dough into the greased baking dish, making sure to spread it evenly across the bottom. Use your fingers to press and seal the seams between the perforated triangles of dough, creating one solid sheet.

Tip: If the dough is sticking to your hands, lightly flour your fingertips or use a rolling pin to gently flatten the seams. A well-sealed base layer ensures that none of the filling leaks through during baking, keeping the layers intact.

Layer the Roast Beef and Cheese

Next, layer your deli-sliced roast beef evenly over the crescent dough. Try to distribute the slices in a single layer without overlapping too much, as this will help the filling cook evenly. Depending on the thickness of your roast beef, you may want to use more or fewer slices, but aim for about half a pound in total.

After layering the beef, sprinkle grated Swiss cheese directly on top. Grating the cheese fresh ensures a smoother melt, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly. Spread the cheese evenly over the beef, making sure to cover the entire layer to avoid any gaps in the cheesy goodness.

Prepare the Flavorful Sauce

In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup melted butter, 1 packet of dry onion soup mix, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-mixed sauce. This mixture adds savory depth and rich flavor to the dish, infusing the beef and cheese with a hint of onion and garlic.

For a personal twist, you can customize the sauce to suit your taste. Add a dash of Dijon mustard for a tangy bite, or sprinkle in Italian herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor boost. If you prefer a spicier profile, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the heat.

Once the sauce is ready, drizzle it evenly over the cheese layer, ensuring the entire surface is coated. The butter in the sauce helps the crescent rolls bake to a beautiful golden brown while infusing the filling with rich, savory flavors.

Roll Out the Crescent Dough Top

Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the beef and cheese layers. As with the bottom layer, gently press the seams together to form a solid sheet of dough. This step is crucial for keeping the filling intact during baking and achieving a uniform top crust.

Make sure the top layer is spread evenly across the dish. Pinch the edges of the dough along the sides of the baking dish to create a seal, preventing the cheese from bubbling out during baking.

Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent roll top is golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on the dish around the 15-minute mark, as ovens can vary slightly in temperature. You want the dough to be fully cooked through and golden on top, with a slight crispness to the edges.

Tip: If your oven tends to cook unevenly, you may want to rotate the dish halfway through baking to ensure even browning. For higher altitudes, you may need to add an additional 5 minutes to the baking time, as baked goods can take longer to rise and cook properly.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the squares are baking, heat 1 cup of beef broth in a small pot over medium heat. This broth serves as the dipping sauce, essential for the classic French dip experience.

To enhance the flavor of the broth, consider adding a beef bouillon cube for a richer taste. A splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce can add depth, while a pinch of herbs like thyme or a bay leaf can make the broth more aromatic. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend, then keep the broth warm until ready to serve.

Cooling, Cutting, and Serving

Once the French Dip Squares are golden and puffed, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Allowing the dish to cool slightly helps the filling set, making it easier to cut clean, even squares.

Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the squares to your desired size. For serving, place the squares on a plate and provide small bowls of warm beef broth for dipping. Garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color, or serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

These French Dip Squares are perfect for sharing, whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for game day, or simply enjoying a fun family meal!

Tips for Customizing French Dip Squares

Different Cheeses

One of the easiest ways to customize French Dip Squares is by changing the type of cheese. Each cheese brings its own distinct flavor and texture:

Provolone: Offers a mild, creamy flavor that melts beautifully, making it a popular alternative to Swiss cheese for a more subtle taste.
Cheddar: For those who prefer a sharper, tangier flavor, cheddar can be a great option. It adds a bold, rich taste that pairs well with roast beef.
Mozzarella: If you’re looking for a milder cheese that adds a gooey, stretchy texture, mozzarella is a great choice. It melts smoothly and doesn’t overpower the beef.
Pepper Jack: For a bit of spice, try pepper jack cheese. It adds a slight heat to the dish while maintaining a creamy melt.

Experimenting with different cheeses can completely change the flavor profile, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal taste preferences.

Additions and Variations

To elevate the flavor of your French Dip Squares, you can add a variety of ingredients:

Sautéed Mushrooms: Adding earthy, sautéed mushrooms provides an extra layer of flavor and texture that pairs perfectly with the savory roast beef.
Onions and Peppers: Sautéed onions or bell peppers add a sweet, caramelized flavor, while giving the dish more complexity and heartiness.
Spice It Up: For a spicier version, you can add jalapeños to the filling or mix a dash of hot sauce into the butter and onion soup mixture. This adds a nice kick without overwhelming the dish.
Alternative Meats: If you’re looking to switch up the protein, try deli-sliced turkey, ham, or even chicken. Each brings a different flavor and texture, creating a whole new variation of the dish.

Dietary Adjustments

For those with dietary restrictions, French Dip Squares can easily be adapted:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent dough or substitute with a homemade gluten-free dough. Gluten-free versions may take slightly longer to bake, so keep an eye on the oven to ensure they cook through evenly.
Lowering Fat Content: To reduce the fat content, opt for leaner cuts of roast beef and use low-fat cheese. You can also reduce the amount of butter in the sauce or substitute it with olive oil for a healthier option.

Making Ahead and Freezing

These French Dip Squares are perfect for meal prepping or serving at a later time:

Assembling Ahead: You can prepare the dish in advance by assembling the layers, covering the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, and then bake as instructed.
Freezing for Later: To freeze, assemble the French Dip Squares but do not bake them. Instead, wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, let the dish thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake it in the oven until golden and heated through.

Reheating Tip: To maintain the crispiness of the crescent rolls when reheating, place the squares in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, rather than microwaving them, which can make the rolls soggy.

These tips allow for endless customization, making French Dip Squares a versatile and adaptable dish for any occasion.

FAQs Section

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can easily swap out Swiss cheese for other varieties to suit your taste. Provolone offers a mild, creamy flavor, while cheddar brings a sharper, tangier bite. For a gooey texture, mozzarella is a great choice, and if you enjoy a little heat, pepper jack adds a spicy kick. Each cheese will give your French Dip Squares a unique flavor.

Can I make French Dip Squares ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. This makes it a perfect dish for preparing ahead for parties, gatherings, or busy weeknights.

What other dips can I serve with French Dip Squares?

While beef broth is the traditional dipping sauce, you can mix things up by serving horseradish sauce, which adds a tangy bite, or a mustard dip for extra flavor. A rich cheese sauce can also complement the dish and offer a different taste experience.

Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?

Yes, you can use homemade dough like pizza or puff pastry if you prefer, though crescent rolls offer a quick, convenient option that saves time. Homemade dough can give a more personalized touch but requires a bit more preparation.

What other meats can I use instead of roast beef?

You can easily substitute turkey, ham, or even shredded chicken for the roast beef. Each option will give the dish a new flavor profile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or use whatever deli meat you have on hand.

Conclusion

French Dip Squares are the perfect example of a simple yet versatile dish that delivers on both flavor and convenience. With just a handful of easily accessible ingredients like crescent rolls, deli roast beef, and cheese, you can create a delicious meal or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner, a party appetizer, or a game day snack, this recipe comes together quickly and satisfies everyone at the table.

What makes French Dip Squares truly special is how customizable they are. From experimenting with different cheeses and meats to adding your favorite seasonings or extras like sautéed vegetables, there’s plenty of room to make this dish your own. The flexibility to prepare the dish ahead of time or freeze it for later makes it even more convenient for busy schedules.

Whether you stick with the classic beef and Swiss combination or try a new variation, French Dip Squares are sure to be a hit. Their shareable, bite-sized format makes them fun to serve, while the warm, savory flavors and the traditional dipping sauce make them comforting and satisfying. This recipe is the ideal go-to for both casual meals and festive gatherings—truly a dish for every occasion!

French Dip Squares

★★★

3 from 1 reviews

Author: Christophe

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Description

These French Dip Squares are a fun, shareable twist on the beloved French Dip sandwich. Perfect for parties or casual family dinners, they feature layers of buttery crescent roll dough filled with tender roast beef and melty Swiss cheese. A savory mixture of dry onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder gives the dish a flavorful boost, while a warm beef broth dipping sauce elevates each bite. Easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

2️⃣ Layer the base: Roll out one can of crescent rolls in the bottom of the baking dish, pressing any seams together to form an even layer.

3️⃣ Add the filling: Layer the deli-sliced roast beef evenly over the dough, followed by a sprinkling of Swiss cheese.

4️⃣ Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the dry onion soup mix, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Drizzle this mixture over the cheese layer.

5️⃣ Top with dough: Roll out the second can of crescent rolls and place it over the beef and cheese, pinching the seams together to create a smooth top layer.

6️⃣ Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and fully cooked.

7️⃣ Heat the broth: While the squares are baking, warm the beef broth in a small pot over medium heat to serve as your dipping sauce.

8️⃣ Cool and cut: Let the French Dip Squares cool slightly after baking, then cut into squares.

9️⃣ Serve: Serve the squares with the warmed beef broth for dipping and enjoy!

Notes

These squares are great for appetizers or a casual meal. You can add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
If you prefer a spicier version, add a bit of horseradish or Dijon mustard to the roast beef before layering.

1 thought on “French Dip Squares”

Jon
December 17, 2024 at 4:11 pm
This looks so yummy, but in the picture you are clearly using puff pastry as that is not what crescent rolls look like. I’d love to see how you handled the puff pastry and how long you baked it in your recipe.
★★★