Unleash the flavor with Texas Toast French Dips – your new favorite easy weeknight dinner! Combining savory roast beef, gooey melted cheese, and a rich au jus all nestled on crispy garlic Texas Toast, this recipe is a game-changer for quick, delicious meals.
The Ultimate Texas Toast French Dips: A 30-Minute Dinner Sensation
Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together in a flash? Look no further than these incredible Texas Toast French Dips. This recipe takes the beloved classic French Dip sandwich and elevates it to new heights by swapping traditional bread for thick, garlic-buttered Texas Toast. It’s a brilliant fusion that delivers on both flavor and convenience, making it an absolute must-try for busy weeknights or whenever you need a delicious dinner on the table quickly. Prepare for this to become a new family favorite!
Why You’ll Love These Texas Toast French Dips
What makes these Texas Toast French Dips so irresistible? It’s a combination of factors that hits all the right notes for a fantastic meal:
- Lightning-Fast Preparation: From start to finish, you can have this amazing dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those hectic evenings when time is precious, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet-like experience without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The robust, savory taste of thinly sliced roast beef is perfectly complemented by the gooey, melted provolone cheese and the rich, umami-packed au jus. But the real star is the garlic Texas Toast, which adds a flavorful, buttery crunch that ordinary bread simply can’t match. It provides a unique texture contrast that elevates the entire sandwich.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: This is one of those meals that everyone at the table will enjoy, from the pickiest eaters to the most discerning palates. It’s hearty, comforting, and customizable, ensuring happy plates all around. It’s an easy win for dinner any night of the week.
- Simple Ingredients: You won’t need a gourmet pantry or specialty store for this recipe. Most ingredients are readily available at your local grocery store, making preparation straightforward and stress-free. This ensures accessibility and convenience for all home cooks.
If you’re already a fan of classic French Dip sandwiches, you’re in for a delightful twist with this Texas Toast version. The added garlic and butter from the toast truly transform the experience. And if you love garlic bread as much as we do, you absolutely have to try our other Texas Toast creations. They’re all delicious ways to transform a simple ingredient into something extraordinary and versatile for various meals:
- Texas Toast Pizzas: A fun and speedy way to enjoy pizza.
- Texas Toast Sloppy Joes: A comforting classic with a garlic bread base.
- Buffalo Chicken Garlic Texas Toast: A zesty and cheesy delight.
- Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Pizzas: An Italian-American fusion that’s simply irresistible.
We absolutely ❤️ these sandwiches. I have everyone in my family hooked on them.
– Kimi
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Toast French Dips
Texas Toast French Dips are incredibly versatile and can be served either as a hearty appetizer or a complete meal. For a classic diner experience, pair them with crispy French Fries, crunchy potato chips, or golden onion rings. If you’re looking for lighter options to balance the richness, steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus, or a fresh, crisp side salad with your favorite dressing, would be perfect complements. The key is to choose a side that offers a contrasting texture or a fresh counterpoint to the savory sandwich and au jus.
To ensure your Texas Toast stays wonderfully crispy, even when dipped in the flavorful au jus, we highly recommend baking it slightly longer than the package instructions suggest. This extra baking time, perhaps an additional 1-2 minutes, will help to dry out the bread a bit more and create a sturdier, more substantial base. You’re aiming for a beautiful golden-brown, extra-crispy texture before assembling your sandwiches. This added crispness will better withstand the delicious liquid, preventing it from becoming mushy too quickly.
Absolutely! While Texas Toast is highly recommended for its thickness, garlic flavor, and pre-buttered convenience, you can certainly substitute it. Any type of pre-made garlic bread, such as a sliced garlic loaf, will work well. If you’re feeling ambitious and prefer a homemade touch, you can even make your Homemade Garlic Bread using your favorite crusty loaf, slicing it thickly for a similar hearty base. Just ensure whatever bread you choose is robust enough to hold the generous fillings and withstand repeated dipping into the au jus.
If you happen to have any of these delicious French Dips leftover (which is a big “if” – they tend to disappear fast!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality and flavor, it’s best to store the au jus separately from the assembled sandwiches. For longer storage, you can freeze individual sandwiches for up to 3 months. When freezing, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn and preserve freshness.
For optimal crispiness and flavor, reheating leftovers in the oven or an air fryer is highly recommended. This method helps to re-crisp the toast and melt the cheese beautifully, making them taste almost as good as fresh. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet (for the oven) or in the air fryer basket at around 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly. While you could use a microwave for speed, it will likely result in soggy bread, diminishing the textural appeal of your French Dips, so it’s generally best to avoid it.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Texas Toast French Dips
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Texas Toast French Dips. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tips for selecting the best components to ensure maximum flavor and ease:
- Frozen Garlic Texas Toast: This is truly the secret weapon of the recipe! Its pre-buttered and garlicked nature saves you significant time and effort, infusing an incredible flavor foundation right from the start. The thick slices are also ideally suited for holding up to the generous, rich fillings and the essential dipping au jus without falling apart. While any garlic bread will work in a pinch, the convenience and robust thickness of Texas Toast are simply unmatched for this application.
- Au Jus Gravy Mix: For ultimate convenience without sacrificing that characteristic savory depth, a good quality au jus gravy mix is perfect. Look for it in the soup or gravy aisle of your grocery store. These packets are designed for quick preparation and consistent flavor. However, if you prefer a more gourmet approach, you can certainly opt for a homemade au jus using rich beef broth and your favorite seasonings for an even richer, more customized flavor profile.
- Cold Water: This is used to prepare the au jus gravy mix according to the package directions. Ensure you use cold water to prevent lumps when whisking the mix.
- Sliced Deli Roast Beef: The quality of your roast beef significantly impacts the overall experience of the sandwich. You can use pre-packaged, thinly sliced roast beef for ultimate ease and speed. For an elevated French Dip, consider requesting a nicer, fresh-sliced cut from the deli counter – ask for it thinly shaved. Aim for thin slices that can be easily warmed and layered, becoming tender and succulent when dipped.
- Provolone Cheese: Known for its mild, slightly nutty flavor and, most importantly, its excellent melting capabilities, provolone is the traditional and ideal choice for French Dips. It creates that irresistible gooey texture that stretches with every bite. However, feel free to experiment with other meltable cheeses like mozzarella (for a milder, stretchier melt), white cheddar (for a sharper flavor), or Swiss cheese (for a more distinct, nutty taste) – all would be delicious alternatives.
- Dried Parsley (Optional Garnish): A final sprinkle of dried parsley at the end adds a fresh pop of vibrant green color, making your French Dips look as appealing as they taste. It’s a small, optional touch that significantly enhances visual appeal and can add a subtle herbaceous note.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Delicious Texas Toast French Dips
Follow these simple, efficient instructions to create perfect Texas Toast French Dips in under 30 minutes. Precision and timing are key to getting that ideal balance of crispy toast, tender beef, and perfectly melted cheese!
- Prepare Your Workspace and Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your baking surface by lining a large sheet tray with parchment paper. This crucial step prevents sticking, ensures even cooking, and makes cleanup incredibly easy.
- Bake the Texas Toast to Perfection: Carefully arrange your frozen garlic Texas Toast slices in a single layer on the prepared sheet tray. Bake them according to the package directions, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through the baking process to ensure both sides achieve an even golden-brown color and a desirable crispiness. For that extra resistance against sogginess when dipping, consider baking them for an additional minute or two until they are slightly crispier than usual.
- Prepare the Savory Au Jus: While your Texas Toast is baking, turn your attention to the flavorful au jus gravy. In a small saucepan, combine 1 packet of au jus gravy mix with 3 cups of cold water. Whisk vigorously to ensure all powder dissolves and prevent any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly to your desired consistency, as indicated by the package directions. Keep it warm on a low heat setting until ready to serve.
- Warm the Roast Beef: Once both the Texas Toast is baked and the au jus is perfectly ready, it’s time to prepare the roast beef. Gently submerge your sliced deli roast beef into the warm au jus. Allow the beef slices to warm through for approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute. The goal is to heat the beef without overcooking it, which can make it tough. The warm au jus will also infuse the beef with even more savory flavor.
- Assemble the Base Layers: Carefully retrieve your crispy Texas Toast slices from the oven and return them to the parchment-lined sheet tray. On top of each piece of toast, strategically place a half slice of provolone cheese. This initial layer of cheese will serve as a delicious foundation, helping to create a barrier and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Layer with Roast Beef: Now, evenly distribute the warmed roast beef slices over the provolone cheese on each piece of toast. Don’t be shy – pile it generously for a truly satisfying, hearty bite! The tender beef perfectly complements the garlic toast and cheese.
- Add the Top Cheese Layer and Melt: To complete the cheesy goodness, add the remaining half slices of provolone cheese on top of the roast beef on each sandwich. Return the assembled Texas Toast French Dips to the oven for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent the cheese from browning too much or burning.
- Garnish and Serve Immediately: Once the cheese is perfectly melted and the French Dips are hot and ready, carefully remove them from the oven. If desired, lightly sprinkle with dried parsley for a final touch of color and visual appeal. Serve these incredible Texas Toast French Dips immediately with the warm au jus gravy on the side for dipping. Each bite is a savory delight, best enjoyed while everything is still hot and fresh!
Customize Your Texas Toast French Dips: Variations & Serving Ideas
One of the best things about Texas Toast French Dips is how easily they can be adapted and customized to suit your personal taste preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
- Cheese Alternatives: While provolone is a classic for its mild flavor and excellent melt, don’t limit yourself! Swiss cheese offers a distinctly nutty tang that pairs wonderfully with beef, mozzarella provides an ultra-stretchy, milder melt, and white cheddar adds a sharper, more robust flavor. You could even use a blend of your favorite meltable cheeses for a unique profile.
- Flavorful Add-Ins: Elevate your French Dips with additional toppings. Consider adding caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness, sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth, or even a hint of creamy horseradish sauce spread lightly on the toast before adding the beef for a subtle kick. Sautéed bell peppers or thinly sliced jalapeños could also bring a different dimension and a pop of color.
- Spicy Twist: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes sprinkled over the beef and cheese before the final melt, or a few thin slices of a spicy pepper (like pickled jalapeños) under the cheese, can add a welcome warmth to your French Dips.
- Gourmet Au Jus: If you have extra time and want to make your au jus truly stand out, crafting it from scratch using high-quality beef broth, a splash of red wine, and aromatics like minced garlic and fresh thyme can take this dish to an even more gourmet level, deepening its rich flavor.
- Make it a Complete Meal: Beyond the suggested sides like French fries or a fresh salad, consider serving these hearty French Dips with a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup or a robust beef and barley soup for a comforting lunch or dinner combo. A crisp, tangy coleslaw can also offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
Craving More Easy & Delicious Recipes?
If you loved these Texas Toast French Dips, you’re in luck! We have plenty more family-friendly recipes that leverage the convenience and flavor of Texas Toast, or offer delightful twists on classic sandwiches. Explore some of our other favorites for your next meal inspiration:
- French Dip Sliders: Perfect bite-sized versions for appetizers or parties.
- Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches: A slow-cooker approach for maximum tenderness and minimal fuss.
- French Dip Egg Rolls: An unexpected and crispy appetizer that’s a real crowd-pleaser.
- French Dip Squares: Easy-to-serve portions, great for family gatherings.
- French Dip Crescent Puffs: Flaky and savory, a delightful and quick variation.
- Arby’s Roast Beef and Cheddar: Recreate a fast-food favorite with homemade flair.
- Air Fryer Roast Beef Sandwiches: Get quick and crispy sandwich perfection with your air fryer.
- Texas Toast Pizzas: A fun, fast, and customizable pizza night solution.
- Texas Toast Meatball Subs: Hearty and saucy, a truly satisfying meal on garlic bread.
- Texas Toast Sloppy Joes: A classic comfort food elevated on a delicious garlic bread base.
- Cheeseburger Texas Toast: All the irresistible flavors of a cheeseburger, no bun needed.
- Buffalo Chicken Texas Toast: A spicy, cheesy delight that’s packed with flavor.
- Chicken Parmesan Texas Toast: Italian-inspired goodness and comfort on garlic bread.
- Maid Rites (Loose Meat Sandwiches): A regional classic made easy for your dinner table.
Texas Toast French Dips
Everything you love about a French Dip sandwich but on a slice of garlic butter Texas Toast!
6 Reviews
Pin
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 box frozen garlic Texas Toast (8 slices)
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 3 cups cold water
- 1 pound sliced deli roast beef
- 8 slices provolone cheese (optional product link)
- Dried parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a sheet tray with parchment paper.
- Cook 1 box frozen garlic Texas Toast per the directions on the back of the box, mine cooked for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- While the toast is baking, make the 1 packet au jus gravy mix with 3 cups cold water according to the package directions. Whisk well and bring to a simmer.
- Once the toast and au jus are ready, gently warm 1 pound sliced deli roast beef in the au jus for about 30-60 seconds.
- On top of each piece of cooked toast, place a half slice of provolone cheese.
- Top all of the toasts evenly with the warm roast beef slices.
- Add the remaining half slices of provolone cheese on top of the beef.
- Bake for 3-5 minutes or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Top with dried parsley, for garnish (optional).
- Serve immediately with the warm au jus for dipping.
Video Tutorial
Notes
- Please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” and “Essential Ingredients” sections above for other substitutions or for the answers to common questions regarding preparation and serving.
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 14g
Sodium: 1206mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Nutritional Disclaimer
The author is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used, and preparation methods may also affect final values.