There’s something truly delightful about the combination of warm, flaky pastry and savory fillings. When I first experimented with these French Dip Squares, I found myself surprised by how simply I could transform a few everyday ingredients into a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Picture this: the rich aroma of roast beef mingling with melted provolone and the buttery scent of fresh dough wafting through your kitchen. These squares are the perfect remedy for anyone tired of fast food or looking to elevate weeknight dinners. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delightful feast that’s sure to impress both family and friends.
In only 35 minutes, you’ll have a delectable meal ready to serve alongside warm au jus for dipping. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these French Dip Squares are bound to become a favorite. So, grab your crescent roll dough, and let’s dive into this easy yet flavorful recipe!
Why You'll Love This French Dip Squares
- This French Dip Squares recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of baking.
- The combination of flaky pastry, savory roast beef, and gooey provolone offers a flavor explosion that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
- These versatile squares can be served as a fun appetizer, a satisfying main dish, or a crowd-pleasing snack at any gathering.
- Watching these golden, puffed squares come out of the oven will not only make your kitchen smell amazing but also impress your guests with their visual appeal.
French Dip Squares Ingredients
For the Dough
• Refrigerated crescent roll dough – Two cans are needed for that perfect golden, flaky crust.
For the Filling
• Deli roast beef – One pound of thinly sliced roast beef brings a savory depth to these French Dip Squares.
• Provolone cheese – Twelve slices will melt beautifully, adding a creamy, mild flavor to the filling.
For the Topping
• Unsalted butter – Two tablespoons, melted, adds richness and a beautiful finish to the top crust.
• Garlic powder – One teaspoon gives a fragrant punch that complements the roast beef perfectly.
• Dried parsley – One teaspoon for a pop of color and subtle herbal notes.
• Onion powder (optional) – One teaspoon enhances the savory flavor; it’s perfectly fine to leave it out if preferred.
For the Au Jus
• Au jus mix – One packet to create a flavorful dipping sauce that pairs beautifully with the French Dip Squares.
• Water – Two cups, or as specified by the au jus packet instructions, to prepare the dipping sauce.
How to Make French Dip Squares
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Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your squares bake evenly and come out golden and delicious.
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Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup—no one likes scrubbing burnt-on dough!
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Press the Dough: Grab one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of your prepared pan, ensuring you seal all seams well. You’ll want a nice, even base to hold your savory filling.
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Layer the Ingredients: Place 6 slices of provolone on top of the dough, then layer all the thinly sliced roast beef. Finish with the remaining 6 slices of provolone, creating a cheesy, hearty filling.
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Cover with Dough: Gently unroll the second can of crescent dough and stretch it over the cheese and beef layer. Cover it completely to form a cozy blanket for your filling.
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Mix and Brush: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, parsley, and onion powder. Brush this mixture over the top of the dough for a mouthwatering, golden finish.
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Bake the Squares: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, crisp, and puffed up. Keep an eye on it—you want that beautiful golden color!
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Prepare the Au Jus: While the squares are baking, follow the instructions on the au jus packet to prepare the dipping sauce in a saucepan. This savory dip will elevate your French Dip Squares to the next level.
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Rest and Serve: Allow the squares to rest for 5 minutes in the pan, then cut them into 12–16 squares. Serve warm with a side of au jus for dipping—pure bliss!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a lively touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These French Dip Squares are fantastic for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the assembly of the squares up to 24 hours in advance by layering the roast beef and provolone cheese between the crescent dough in the pan, then covering it tightly with plastic wrap. To maintain their delicious quality, refrigerate the assembled squares until you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to serve, simply brush with the melted butter mixture and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake as directed, and you’ll have hot, flaky squares ready to dip in au jus with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze French Dip Squares
Room Temperature: Keep uneaten squares at room temperature for up to 2 hours to ensure freshness and avoid spoilage.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezer: If freezing, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen French Dip Squares, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
What to Serve with French Dip Squares?
Transform your mealtime into a delightful experience with these fulfilling French Dip Squares, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
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Crispy Coleslaw: This crunchy and tangy slaw brings a refreshing contrast that complements the savory roast beef beautifully. A burst of color and flavor will elevate your meal.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter add a delightful crunch and vibrant green color to your plate. Their lightness balances the richness of the squares.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these crispy fries pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the French Dip Squares. Dip them in the au jus for an extra layer of taste!
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a classic sidekick that adds freshness and a little zing. The crunch of croutons and salty Parmesan offers an appealing textural contrast.
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Creamy Mac and Cheese: Indulge in this comforting favorite that adds richness to the meal. The creamy texture harmonizes nicely with the au jus, creating a dip-worthy delight.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of juicy fruits introduces a sweet and refreshing element that lightens up the hearty fare. It’s a wonderful way to cleanse your palate between bites.
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Ice Cold Beer: A refreshing lager or pale ale enhances the hearty flavors of the squares while providing a satisfying fizz. Perfect for casual dinner parties or game days!
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Conclude your meal with these warm, gooey treats. Their sweetness makes for a comforting finish after enjoying savory bites of French Dip Squares.
French Dip Squares Variations
Feel free to get creative with these ideas and customize your French Dip Squares to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Swap the roast beef for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based version.
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Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the roast beef layer for a delightful kick.
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Cheesy Twist: Mix different cheeses, like sharp cheddar and Swiss, with the provolone for a flavor-packed filling that excites the palate.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked gouda in place of some provolone for a rich, smoky taste that adds depth to every bite.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the butter mixture before brushing it on top for an aromatic finish.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure your au jus mix is also gluten-free for a safe alternative.
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Loaded: Top the filling with crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions before adding the second layer of dough for an indulgent twist.
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Breakfast Style: Replace the roast beef with scrambled eggs and add crumbled breakfast sausage for a delicious brunch option.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect golden crust for your French Dip Squares, ensure that you seal all seams of the crescent dough well to avoid any filling leakage during baking.
- When layering the provolone cheese, consider a mix of cheeses to enhance flavor and texture, such as adding mozzarella for extra stretch.
- For an extra crispy top, brush the dough with a bit more melted butter just before baking.
- Bake until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) for a perfectly cooked center, and remember to let them rest for the full five minutes for cleaner cuts.
French Dip Squares Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right roast beef for French Dip Squares?
Absolutely! When selecting deli roast beef, look for cuts labeled “lean” or “top round” for a tender texture. You want thinly sliced beef that appears moist and not dry; a bit of marbling helps with flavor!
What is the best way to store leftover French Dip Squares?
Very simple! Store any uneaten squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you prefer to enjoy them later, I recommend reheating them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for the best texture—about 10-15 minutes should do the trick!
Can I freeze French Dip Squares, and if so, how?
You bet! To freeze, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Place them all in a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a warm oven!
What if my crescent dough doesn’t seal properly during preparation?
No worries at all! If you notice gaps or the seams aren’t sealing, simply use your fingers to pinch the dough together gently. If any filling escapes while baking, not to fret! It happens, and the squares will still taste delicious. Just keep an eye on them to ensure they’re baking evenly.
Are there any dietary considerations for French Dip Squares?
Absolutely! For those with lactose intolerance, you can substitute provolone cheese with a lactose-free cheese. Additionally, if you want to make these squares gluten-free, check if your store offers gluten-free crescent roll dough, which works beautifully for this recipe!
How long does it take to reheat French Dip Squares from frozen?
Great question! From frozen, you’ll want to let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, heat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re warmed throughout. This preserves the flaky texture and helps melt the cheese beautifully!
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- small bowl
- saucepan
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 cans Refrigerated crescent roll dough for flaky crust
For the Filling
- 1 pound Deli roast beef thinly sliced
- 12 slices Provolone cheese for creamy flavor
For the Topping
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter melted, for richness
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder for flavor
- 1 teaspoon Dried parsley for color
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder optional, enhances flavor
For the Au Jus
- 1 packet Au jus mix for dipping sauce
- 2 cups Water as specified by the au jus packet
Instructions
How to Make French Dip Squares
- Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Press the Dough: Grab one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of your prepared pan, sealing all seams.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place 6 slices of provolone on top of the dough, layer all the thinly sliced roast beef, and finish with the remaining 6 slices of provolone.
- Cover with Dough: Unroll the second can of dough and stretch it over the filling, covering it completely.
- Mix and Brush: Combine melted butter, garlic powder, parsley, and onion powder in a bowl. Brush it over the top of the dough.
- Bake the Squares: Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.
- Prepare the Au Jus: Follow the instructions on the au jus packet to prepare the dipping sauce.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the squares to rest for 5 minutes, then cut into 12–16 squares and serve warm with au jus.
