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These Texas Toast French Dips are a shortcut on the classic that brings all the cozy flavors of a French dip to your weeknight table with almost no fuss. Buttery garlic toast gets loaded with juicy roast beef and oozing provolone then crisped under the broiler until golden. Each slice is dipped straight into hot au jus for a rich and savory finish that feels way fancier than the simple process lets on. It is comfort food that is fast enough for busy schedules and hearty enough to feed your hungriest crowd.
When I first made these with leftover deli roast beef and a box of Texas toast my family dove right in. Now my youngest asks for them whenever he hears there is roast beef in the fridge.
Ingredients
- Frozen garlic Texas Toast: brings big flavor and crunch look for one made with real butter and plenty of garlic
- Au jus gravy mix: key for the dunking sauce pick a variety with rich beefy taste
- Cold water: blends with the mix for smooth au jus use filtered water for clean flavor
- Sliced deli roast beef: turns tender and juicy when heated select thin slices for easy layering
- Provolone cheese: melts beautifully on top go for freshly sliced for creamiest results
- Dried parsley: adds fresh herby color right at the end choose a bright green jar for the best look
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment for mess free cleanup
- Toast the Texas Toast:
- Arrange the slices in one layer on the tray bake as directed on the package mine went eight minutes flipping halfway so both sides became crisp and golden
- Prepare the Au Jus:
- Pour the au jus gravy mix and cold water into a saucepan whisk well then bring up to a gentle simmer over medium heat stirring until the sauce is glossy and smooth
- Warm the Roast Beef:
- Slip the roast beef slices into the hot au jus just long enough to warm them through this helps them stay tender and juicy
- Assemble the Toasts:
- Top each baked toast with half a slice of provolone pile on the warm beef and add the other half of cheese for extra coverage
- Melt and Garnish:
- Return to the oven for three to five minutes so the cheese gets bubbly and melty then scatter dried parsley across for a bright finish
- Serve with Au Jus:
- Dish the loaded toasts onto plates with a small bowl of au jus for dunking every bite
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My favorite part is loading up the cheese so every edge caramelizes by the time it hits the plate. The night we first made these my daughter insisted on an extra toast just for the crispy cheese.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat and keep the bread crisp use the oven broiler. The au jus stores separately in a sealed container and can be warmed on the stove or in the microwave.
Ingredient Substitutions
Mozzarella or Swiss make delicious cheese swaps. You can use slow roasted turkey or rotisserie chicken in place of roast beef. If you are out of Texas Toast a thick slice of homemade garlic bread also works great.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair with a green salad or oven baked fries to make a full meal. A scoop of coleslaw or some roasted broccoli is perfect for adding color and crunch to your plate.
Cultural Note
The classic French dip got its start in early twentieth century Los Angeles at a deli counter. This Texas Toast twist lets you enjoy those same warm beefy flavors but puts dinner on the table in less time with all the fun of open face sandwiches.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
Frozen garlic Texas Toast provides a buttery, crisp texture that holds up well against the melty cheese and savory au jus. Thick slices are ideal for balance and flavor.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, mozzarella or Swiss cheese are great alternatives to provolone, each bringing a distinct melt and flavor to the dish.
- → How do I keep the beef tender?
Warm sliced roast beef gently in hot au jus for just a minute or two to retain juiciness and prevent drying out.
- → Is homemade au jus an option?
Definitely. Using homemade beef stock seasoned to taste provides a richer, more personalized dipping sauce compared to packets.
- → What garnishes enhance the dish?
Dried parsley adds fresh color while cracked black pepper, mild horseradish, or caramelized onions introduce extra layers of flavor.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
For best texture, assemble and bake just before serving. Components can be prepped in advance for quick last-minute assembly.