It was a chilly autumn evening, and the scent of warm, savory aromas filled the air as I stepped into my kitchen. I knew exactly what was on the menu – my famous French Dip Squares. These little bites of heaven never failed to bring a smile to my family’s faces, and tonight was no exception.
As I pulled the golden, flaky pastry from the oven, I couldn’t wait to see the look of delight on their faces. The combination of tender roast beef, melted provolone, and that irresistible garlic-infused butter was simply irresistible. It’s a recipe I’ve perfected over the years, and it’s become a staple in our household.
My kids love helping me make these French Dip Squares. They get so excited when they see the canned crescent roll dough and start eagerly awaiting the moment when they can sink their teeth into the warm, gooey goodness. And let’s not forget the au jus dipping sauce – the perfect accompaniment to these savory squares.
As we gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this simple, yet delicious, dish that always brings us together. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a game-day gathering with friends, these French Dip Squares are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to leave everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!).
So, if you’re looking for a recipe that will become a new household favorite, look no further than my French Dip Squares. Trust me, your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you.
Why This French Dip Squares Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect French Dip Squares
The secret to these French Dip Squares lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The flaky, buttery crescent roll dough provides the perfect base for the tender roast beef and melted provolone cheese. But the real star of the show is the garlic and onion-infused butter that’s brushed on top, giving these squares an irresistible savory and satisfying taste.
What sets this recipe apart is the attention to detail. The thinly sliced roast beef ensures that each bite is perfectly tender, while the just-right amount of Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. And the key to the perfect square shape? Cutting the dough into precise squares before baking, ensuring an even and uniform appearance.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these French Dip Squares, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: The flaky, buttery texture of the crescent roll dough is the foundation for these squares, providing the perfect base for the fillings.
- 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef: High-quality, thinly sliced roast beef is essential for the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture of these squares.
- 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced: The melted provolone cheese adds a rich, creamy element that complements the savory roast beef.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon onion powder: These spices infuse the squares with a delightful savory flavor that can’t be beat.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A touch of Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle depth of flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: The buttery, garlicky topping is the crowning glory of these French Dip Squares, giving them a golden-brown exterior and irresistible aroma.
Step-by-Step French Dip Squares Instructions
Preparing Your French Dip Squares
Preparing these French Dip Squares is a breeze, with a total time of just 35 minutes – 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. To get started, you’ll need a baking sheet, a sharp knife, and a pastry brush.
1- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the two cans of crescent roll dough and carefully press the perforations together to seal, forming a single large rectangle of dough.
2- Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 18 even squares, arranging them on a greased baking sheet. Top each square with a slice of roast beef and a slice of provolone cheese.
3- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the squares, ensuring even coverage.
4- Bake the French Dip Squares for 20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to ensure the butter doesn’t burn.
5- Remove the squares from the oven and immediately drizzle the Worcestershire sauce over the top, allowing it to soak into the warm dough and fillings.
6- Serve the French Dip Squares warm, with the classic au jus dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy these savory bites of heaven with your loved ones!
Pro Tips for Success
1- Use thinly sliced roast beef for the best texture. Look for packages labeled “shaved” or “sandwich-style” for the most tender result.
2- Be sure to seal the perforations in the crescent roll dough before cutting to ensure a uniform square shape.
3- Brush the melted butter mixture generously over the tops of the squares, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies.
4- Keep a close eye on the squares in the oven, as the butter can easily burn if left unattended.
5- For a crisper crust, consider baking the squares on a preheated baking stone or cast-iron skillet.
6- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Swiss or cheddar, to find your perfect flavor combination.
Serving and Storing Your French Dip Squares
Perfect Pairings for French Dip Squares
These French Dip Squares are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack, serving up to 18 delicious squares. They pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes and beverages.
For a quick and easy meal, serve the squares alongside a fresh green salad and a hearty soup or chili. The savory flavors of the squares complement the lightness of the salad, while the warm, comforting soup or chili makes for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
If you’re hosting a game-day gathering or casual get-together, the French Dip Squares are a natural choice. Serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces, such as the traditional au jus, as well as a selection of cold beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or even a crisp lager or pale ale.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These French Dip Squares are perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time. Once baked, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the squares on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
For longer-term storage, the unbaked squares can be frozen. Prepare the squares as directed, but do not brush with the garlic-butter mixture. Place the unbaked squares on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours, until firm. Then, transfer the squares to an airtight, freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When ready to bake, thaw the squares in the refrigerator overnight and brush with the garlic-butter mixture before baking as usual.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for French Dip Squares
Creative French Dip Squares Variations
While the classic French Dip Squares are hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on this recipe:
1- Swap out the roast beef for shredded chicken or sliced turkey for a delicious twist.
2- Experiment with different cheese varieties, such as cheddar, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses.
3- Add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.
4- For a spicy kick, mix in a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Making French Dip Squares Diet-Friendly
To make these French Dip Squares more diet-friendly, consider the following substitutions:
1- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free refrigerated dough or make your own gluten-free crescent roll dough.
2- For a low-carb option, swap the crescent roll dough for a low-carb or keto-friendly pie crust or biscuit dough.
3- To make them dairy-free, replace the provolone cheese with your favorite non-dairy cheese alternative.
4- For a vegan option, use plant-based roast beef and dairy-free cheese, and substitute the butter with a vegan-friendly alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of provolone?
A: Absolutely! The provolone cheese provides a delicious, melty texture, but you can easily substitute other types of cheese, such as Swiss, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses, to suit your taste preferences.
Q: How long do the French Dip Squares take to prepare?
A: The total time for this recipe is 35 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time.
Q: Can I make the French Dip Squares ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! The baked squares can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the unbaked squares for longer-term storage.
Q: How many French Dip Squares does this recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 18 delicious squares, making it the perfect appetizer or snack for a crowd.
Q: What should I do if the butter starts to burn in the oven?
A: Keep a close eye on the squares as they bake, and if the butter appears to be burning, you can loosely cover the baking sheet with foil to prevent further browning.
Irresistible French Dip Squares
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 18 squares
Description
Indulge in the ultimate French Dip experience with these easy-to-make, cheesy French Dip Squares – a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
– 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
– 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut each sheet into 9 squares, for a total of 18 squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Place a slice of roast beef and a slice of provolone cheese on each crescent roll square. Sprinkle with the seasoning mixture.
5. Fold the corners of the dough over the filling to create a square shape, pinching the edges to seal.
6. Arrange the filled squares in the prepared baking dish. Brush the tops with the melted butter.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve the French Dip Squares warm, with a side of au jus dipping sauce.
Notes
These French Dip Squares can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. For a spicier kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mixture.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These French Dip Squares are a true family favorite that are sure to become a new household staple. With their irresistible combination of flaky, buttery dough, tender roast beef, and melted provolone cheese, these squares are the ultimate savory treat.
What sets this recipe apart is the attention to detail – from the thinly sliced roast beef to the garlic-infused butter topping, every element is carefully crafted to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. And with a total prep and cook time of just 35 minutes, it’s a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to enjoy.
So, if you’re looking for a new recipe that’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends, look no further than these French Dip Squares. Give them a try, and get ready to bask in the rave reviews. Bon appétit!
