Introduction to French Dip Squares
If you’re on the hunt for that ultimate comfort food, look no further than French Dip Squares. These delightful bites take everything you love about a classic French dip sandwich and transform it into an easy, shareable dish — perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. With layers of savory roast beef, melty provolone cheese, and sweet, caramelized onions nestled between flaky crescent dough, you’ll find these squares hard to resist.
Why French Dip Squares are the Ultimate Comfort Food?
French Dip Squares shine in their simplicity and heartwarming flavors, making them a beloved classic in many households. The gooey cheese pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the roast beef, while the au jus dipping sauce adds an irresistible element of indulgence. Did you know that the combination of warm, savory, and cheesy foods is known to trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s feel-good hormones? This food is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a way to feel good after a long day.
Whether you're enjoying these at a casual dinner or serving them at a party, French Dip Squares are sure to impress and satisfy. They're also super easy to make, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. If you want to make dinner feel special without a lot of fuss, these squares are your answer!
Ingredients for French Dip Squares
Creating delicious French Dip Squares is all about choosing quality ingredients. Let's break down what you'll need!
Essential ingredients for the filling
For the filling, you'll need some key components to pack flavor and texture:
- Onions: 3 cups of small-diced onion caramelized in butter create that rich, sweet foundation.
- Beef: 14 ounces of deli-sliced roast beef gives these squares their iconic taste.
- Provolone cheese: 8 ounces adds a creamy and melty aspect that ties everything together.
- Seasoning: You're going to mix in a large egg, onion soup mix, dried parsley, and thyme to elevate the flavor profile.
Ingredients for the crust
The crust is just as important and is a breeze to put together:
- Crescent dough sheets: Two tubes form the base and top layer for a flaky, golden crust.
Notes on ingredient substitutions
Don’t have all the ingredients? No problem! Here are some simple swaps:
- Substitute provolone cheese with white cheddar or mozzarella for a different twist.
- If you’re not a fan of onions, feel free to skip the caramelization step altogether.
- Want a lighter option? Consider using rotisserie chicken instead of roast beef!
These small adjustments can keep the dish fresh and adaptable to your preferences! Feel free to explore these ideas and make the French Dip Squares truly your own.
Preparing French Dip Squares
Making French Dip Squares is a delightful experience! Not only do they taste fantastic, but they are also surprisingly simple to whip up. Let’s walk through the preparation steps, ensuring you're set for a delicious meal.
Gather your ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have all your ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
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For the onions:
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4 tablespoons salted butter
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3 cups small-diced onion
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2 teaspoons granulated sugar
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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For the squares:
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2 tubes crescent dough sheets
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8 ounces sliced provolone cheese
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14 ounces deli sliced roast beef
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1 large egg
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1 ½ tablespoons dried onion soup mix
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1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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To serve:
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1 ounce packet au jus gravy mix
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3 cups cold water
Having everything ready allows for a smoother cooking experience!
Sauté the onions to perfection
Heat your skillet over medium heat with the salted butter. Once melted, toss in the diced onions, granulated sugar, and black pepper. Stir occasionally, waiting patiently as the onions transform into a beautiful golden brown. This caramelization process, which you can learn more about here, adds an essential depth of flavor to your French Dip Squares.
Assemble the first layer in the baking dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish, spray it with nonstick cooking spray, and unroll one tube of crescent dough. Press the dough into the bottom of the dish, ensuring it covers the sides by about an inch. This first layer is the foundation of your savory squares.
Layer the fillings
Now it’s time to build your layers! Start by placing half of the provolone cheese on the dough. Then, generously add the sliced roast beef on top. Finally, spread those beautifully sautéed onions over the meat. Top it all off with the remaining provolone cheese for a melty, cheesy finish.
Top with the second layer of dough
Unroll your second tube of crescent dough and carefully lay it over the complete stacked layers. Pinch the seams to seal everything in, making sure to tuck any excess dough underneath to keep it neat.
Brush on the egg mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the large egg, dried onion soup mix, dried parsley flakes, and dried thyme. Brush this mixture all over the top layer of dough; this will give it a rich, golden finish as it bakes.
Bake to golden perfection
Cover your dish with nonstick foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until it’s deep golden brown. If you’re using a convection oven, you may check it a bit early.
Prepare the au jus
While your French Dip Squares cool for about 10 minutes, whisk together the au jus gravy mix with cold water in a small saucepan, following the package instructions. This dipping sauce complements the squares beautifully, enhancing the flavor with every bite.
Slice and serve
Finally, slice your delicious squares into generous portions and serve them warm with au jus on the side. These savory bites are perfect for a cozy dinner or sharing with friends. Enjoy every flavor-packed bite of your homemade French Dip Squares!
Variations on French Dip Squares
Vegetarian Alternative
Want to enjoy French Dip Squares without the meat? No problem! Swap out the roast beef for a hearty combination of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. These veggies not only add flavor but also create a satisfying texture. Try using a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda for that melty goodness!
Cheesy Variations
Cheese lovers, rejoice! You can enhance your French Dip Squares by layering different cheeses. Consider incorporating sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or even some spicy pepper jack for a kick. These alterations can elevate the dish to new cheesy heights, making it perfect for entertaining or just a cozy night in.
Different Meat Options
Looking to mix things up? French Dip Squares can easily adapt to include various meats. Try using turkey bacon for a smoky flavor or chicken ham for a lighter option. You can also use tender beef brisket or shredded chicken for a unique twist on this classic. The possibilities are endless!
For more inventive ideas, check out Vegetarian Times or Epicurious for inspiration!
Cooking tips and notes for French Dip Squares
Optimizing cooking time
To get the perfect French Dip Squares, keep a close eye on your oven. Start by covering the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes. This helps cook the filling evenly and prevents over-browning. By removing the foil for the last 15-20 minutes, you’ll achieve a golden, crispy top that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling.
Preventing soggy squares
To avoid sogginess, ensure that you properly press and seal the dough, creating a barrier for the au jus. Pre-cooking the onions until they're caramelized also helps since they release less moisture when baked.
Storing and reheating leftovers
Leftover French Dip Squares can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. For the best reheating results, use an oven or air fryer to maintain that crispy texture. Microwaving can lead to a soggy experience—so keep it traditional! If you like, you can even wrap them in foil to avoid excessive browning. Enjoy!
Serving suggestions for French Dip Squares
Perfect sides to complement your squares
When serving French Dip Squares, consider pairing them with classic sides that bring out their delicious flavors. Crispy sweet potato fries or mozzarella sticks make for fun additions that are equally satisfying. For a lighter option, try a fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Don't forget a warm, crusty bread roll for a comforting touch!
Creative serving ideas
Elevate your French Dip Squares experience by presenting them creatively. Arrange the squares on a vibrant platter with small bowls of au jus for dipping. You could even garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color! Consider setting up a DIY toppings bar with options like sliced jalapeños, spicy mustard, or even cheddar cheese for those who like extra flair. The fun of customizing each square adds a whole new layer of enjoyment! For inspiration, check out more serving ideas on Food Network.
Time details for French Dip Squares
Preparation time
To kick things off, you'll need approximately 20 minutes to gather your ingredients and prepare everything for your French Dip Squares. This includes chopping onions and assembling your ingredients.
Cooking time
Once it's time to bake, the cooking will take roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes the initial baking and the additional browning for that delicious golden crust.
Total time
In total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 35 minutes from start to finish. It's a laid-back cooking session that will leave you with a hearty meal perfect for any weeknight dinner!
For tips on perfecting your cooking timing or checking out more exciting recipes, visit The Country Cook.
Nutritional information for French Dip Squares
When you're indulging in French Dip Squares, it's good to know what you're enjoying. Here's a quick glimpse at the nutritional breakdown:
Calories
Each serving packs around 146 calories, making it a delicious yet manageable choice for your meal.
Protein
For those looking to up their protein intake, you're in luck! These squares provide roughly 11 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the combination of roast beef and cheese.
Sodium
However, keep in mind that the sodium content is about 637 mg per serving. If you're watching your sodium, consider using low-sodium beef broth or cheese.
By knowing these nutritional details, you can enjoy your French Dip Squares while fitting them into your dietary preferences. For more tips on balancing flavors and textures, check out this healthy eating guide.
FAQs about French Dip Squares
Can I make French Dip Squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! French Dip Squares can be prepped in advance. You can assemble them and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them fresh. If you're planning to freeze them, it's best to do so before baking. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before popping them in the oven!
What are the best dipping sauces besides au jus?
While au jus is the classic choice, you can elevate your dipping game with a variety of sauces. Consider trying:
- Spicy mustard for a zesty kick
- Garlic aioli for an extra layer of flavor
- Ranch dressing if you're a fan of creamy dips
- Horseradish sauce for a traditional bite
Feel free to get creative based on your mood!
How do I customize the fillings?
Customization is where the magic happens with French Dip Squares! You can easily swap out the roast beef for alternatives like turkey or chicken. Add your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, or throw in sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers. The sky’s the limit—experiment and find your ideal combination! For ingredient suggestions, explore The Spruce Eats. Enjoy crafting your perfect squares!
Conclusion on French Dip Squares
In summary, French Dip Squares are a delightful twist on the traditional sandwich, perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. Their combination of flavors and easy preparation makes them a must-try. Enjoy the deliciousness with a warm au jus for the ultimate experience!
For more culinary inspiration, check out Bon Appétit for creative serving ideas. Don't forget to share your experience with these tasty squares!
French Dip Squares
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- large skillet
- medium-sized bowl
Ingredients
For the onions
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 3 cups small-diced onion
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the squares
- 2 tubes crescent dough sheets
- 8 ounces sliced provolone cheese
- 14 ounces deli sliced roast beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ tablespoons dried onion soup mix
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
To serve
- 1 ounce packet au jus gravy mix
- 3 cups cold water
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons salted butter. Add 3 cups small-diced onion, 2 teaspoons granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine. Continue cooking until the onions turn a golden brown color. Remove from heat and place on a separate plate until ready to assemble.
- Unroll one of the 2 tubes crescent dough sheets and press it into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it goes up the sides about 1 inch.
- Lay half of the 8 ounces sliced provolone cheese on top of the dough.
- Layer 14 ounces deli sliced roast beef on top of the cheese.
- Spread the cooked onions on top of the roast beef.
- Place the remaining provolone cheese on top.
- Unroll the second crescent dough sheet and place it on top. Pinch the two doughs together along the seams and tuck the excess dough under the bottom.
- Whisk together 1 large egg, 1 ½ tablespoons dried onion soup mix, 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes, and ½ teaspoon dried thyme in a medium-sized bowl.
- Brush the egg mixture all over the top of the dough, using it all.
- Cover with nonstick foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until deep golden brown on top.
- Let cool for 10 minutes.
- While the squares are cooling, make the 1 ounce packet au jus gravy mix per the package directions using the 3 cups cold water.
- Cut into squares and serve with au jus for dipping.
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