Delicious French Dip Squares are a fun twist on the classic French dip sandwich, made easy to share and perfect for any occasion. These squares combine tender roast beef, melted cheese, and soft bread, all baked together to create a warm, gooey, and tasty bite. What really makes these squares shine is the side of savory au jus that you dip each piece into, giving you all the rich flavors of a French dip in one convenient square.
I love making these when friends come over because they’re easy to serve and everyone can grab a square without the fuss of assembling sandwiches. The combination of melty cheese and juicy beef is always a hit, and dipping each piece into the flavorful broth just adds that extra touch that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that doesn’t take much time but feels really special.
My favorite way to enjoy these French Dip Squares is straight out of the oven while they’re still warm and gooey. I usually set the squares out with small bowls of the au jus for dipping and let everyone help themselves. It feels casual but also like you’re treating yourself to something hearty and delicious. These squares always bring good vibes to the table and make me look forward to relaxed, tasty gatherings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This dough creates a soft, flaky base and top for your squares. If you can’t find crescent rolls, biscuit dough or puff pastry work well too. For a healthier option, try whole wheat biscuit dough.
Roast Beef: Thinly sliced deli roast beef is ready-to-use and tender. Leftover roast beef or even prime rib can make this extra special. For a lighter twist, you could use thin turkey slices instead.
Cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully here and adds a mild, nutty flavor. Provolone is a good substitute if you prefer a bit more sharpness. Mozzarella can be used if you like a stretchier melt.
Seasoned Butter: The garlic and onion powders mixed with melted butter add great flavor and help the dough turn golden. Feel free to add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for an herbal note.
Au Jus or Broth: Essential for dipping, it brings all the flavors together. Use store-bought beef au jus, or make your own with beef broth and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. For a vegetarian option, mushroom broth can offer a rich taste.
How Can You Make Sure the Squares Bake Perfectly Without Getting Soggy?
The key to crispy, golden squares with melty cheese inside is sealing and layering properly.
- Press the bottom dough firmly and seal the seams so the juices don’t leak out and make the crust soggy.
- Spread the roast beef evenly so there are no thick clumps; this helps heat reach all parts evenly.
- Use shredded cheese rather than slices to melt quickly and evenly between layers.
- Brush the seasoned butter top evenly to get a rich golden crust while baking.
- Let the baked squares rest for about 5 minutes before cutting; this allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents oozing.
Following these tips helped me get perfectly baked French Dip Squares every time—crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy inside, ready to dunk in au jus!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I like this size because it gives enough space for the layers and easy cutting.
- Mixing bowl – useful for stirring together the seasoned butter mixture.
- Small spoon or brush – for spreading the butter mixture evenly over the dough.
- Oven – to bake the squares until golden and bubbly.
- Serving dishes or small bowls – for warm au jus and for dipping each square.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use thinly sliced turkey or ham instead of roast beef for a different flavor. It works well and keeps it lighter.
- Swap Swiss cheese for provolone or cheddar for an extra cheesy or sharper taste.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted peppers for a veggie boost inside the layers.
- Sprinkle with dried thyme, rosemary, or Italian herbs in the butter mixture for extra flavor.
Delicious French Dip Squares
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (or biscuit dough), about 8 oz
- 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style or leftover roast beef)
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or provolone cheese)
Seasoning and Sauce:
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef au jus or beef broth (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20-25 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 5 minutes for resting before cutting. Altogether, you’ll spend roughly 35-40 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these delicious squares.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the dish, making sure it covers the entire base and seams are sealed.
2. Add the Fillings:
Layer the thinly sliced roast beef evenly on top of the dough. Then sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the beef layer for that perfect melt.
3. Add the Top Layer and Season:
Unroll the second package of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the cheese layer. Press and seal the edges around the bottom layer to form a sandwich. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, parsley flakes, salt, and pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the top dough.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the assembled squares for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey. Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting into squares. Warm the beef au jus or broth in a small bowl. Garnish the squares with extra parsley flakes and serve alongside the warm au jus for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Crescent Roll Dough?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before using. This helps the dough roll out and bake evenly without being too sticky or tough.
What Can I Substitute for Swiss Cheese?
Provolone or mozzarella both work great as substitutes and melt nicely. If you want a sharper flavor, try cheddar or a mix of cheeses to suit your taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to keep the cheese melty and delicious.
Can I Make the Au Jus from Scratch?
Absolutely! Use beef broth, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of garlic powder. Simmer for a few minutes to develop flavor. Store-bought au jus concentrate works well too for convenience.