Delicious French Dip Squares are a fun twist on the classic French dip sandwich, packed with tender roast beef, melty cheese, and a soft, buttery bread base. They’re like little savory squares that bring all the hearty flavors of a traditional dip into easy-to-eat bites. The combination of juicy meat and melted cheese makes every square super flavorful and satisfying.
I love making these squares when I want something that can feed a crowd but still feels homemade and special. They’re perfect for parties or game days because everyone can grab a piece, and the dipping sauce is the best part – I always make sure to have plenty for dunking. Plus, they’re pretty simple to pull together, which is a big win in my kitchen.
My favorite way to serve these is right out of the oven, warm and melted, alongside a bowl of the rich au jus for dipping. It’s such a cozy and delicious snack that always disappears fast. Honestly, once you try these, they might just become your new go-to for gatherings or a comforting treat any time you want something easy and filling.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll or Pizza Dough: I like using crescent roll dough for its flaky, buttery texture. If you don’t have it, pizza dough works well for a chewier crust. For a gluten-free option, try store-bought gluten-free dough.
Roast Beef: Thinly sliced deli roast beef is easy and works great. Leftover roast beef or rare roast from the deli also adds a nice touch. Just be sure it’s not too thick to keep the layers balanced.
Provolone or Swiss Cheese: These melt nicely and complement the beef’s flavor. If you want a sharper option, try sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a stretchier texture.
Au Jus Mix: This brings the dish to life with rich dipping sauce. If you can’t find a mix, beef broth with a splash of soy sauce and a dash of Worcestershire sauce makes a quick homemade substitute.
How Do You Get the Perfect Golden, Flaky Top?
Brushing the dough with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning makes all the difference. It adds flavor and helps the crust brown evenly.
- Mix butter and seasonings well.
- Use a pastry brush to spread it fully across the top dough layer.
- Bake until you see a rich golden color, about 20-25 minutes depending on your oven.
- Let it rest before cutting, so the layers settle and the cheese doesn’t spill out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I find it perfect for keeping everything together and making cutting easy.
- Rolling pin – helps flatten the dough evenly for a neat, compact layer.
- Pastry brush – I use it to spread the buttery seasoning mix smoothly on top for a nice golden crust.
- Sharp knife – for cleanly cutting into squares after baking, so each piece looks appealing.
- Measuring spoons and cups – handy for precise seasoning and ensuring the right amount of ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef for cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter, different flavor.
- Use different cheeses, like mozzarella or sharp cheddar, to change the cheesy notes.
- Add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or peppers before baking for extra texture and flavor.
- Mix in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce into the au jus for a flavor boost.
Delicious French Dip Squares
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (or pizza dough)
- 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style or leftover roast beef)
- 8 oz provolone or Swiss cheese, sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1 packet au jus mix (or pre-made au jus for dipping, about 1 cup)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 5 minutes for resting before serving. So, roughly 35-40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Dough:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Roll out the crescent roll dough (or pizza dough) evenly into the dish, pressing it down to cover the bottom fully.
2. Add Beef and Cheese Layers:
Layer the thinly sliced roast beef evenly over the dough. Then cover the beef with slices of provolone or Swiss cheese, making sure it’s spread out well.
3. Top and Season the Dough:
Roll out another can of crescent roll dough (or more pizza dough) and place it carefully over the cheese layer. Seal the edges to the bottom crust. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture generously over the top dough to add flavor and help it brown.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the dough is puffed. Remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Cut into squares and sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like. Serve warm with a bowl of hot au jus for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Crescent Roll Dough?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before using. This helps the dough roll out smoothly and bake evenly.
Can I Make These Squares Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the squares, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp.
Can I Use Other Meats or Cheeses?
Yes! Roasted turkey or shredded chicken are great substitutes for beef, and cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar can work well. Just pick options that melt nicely for the best results.