French Dip Squares: Quick and Delicious
French Dip Squares are a delightful twist on the classic French Dip sandwich. These bite-sized treats pack all the flavor of the traditional dish into easy-to-make squares, perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also offer a comforting combination of savory roast beef, gooey cheese, and rich Au Jus, all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough.
Why You’ll Love It
You’ll love French Dip Squares for several reasons:
- Quick Preparation: They come together in about 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy days.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they fit into any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With the delicious combination of beef and cheese, it’s hard to resist these tasty squares.
- Easy to Customize: You can easily alter the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
To make French Dip Squares, you’ll need the following:
- 1 lb roast beef, thinly sliced
- 1 package crescent roll dough
- 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Swiss or provolone)
- 1 cup Au Jus gravy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions & Key Variations
- Meat: You can use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cheese: Feel free to swap in cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Dough: If you don’t have crescent roll dough, you can use puff pastry instead.
- Au Jus: If you don’t have Au Jus gravy, beef broth works well as a substitute.
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out the crescent roll dough on a baking sheet. Press it into a rectangle, making sure to seal any perforations so the filling won’t leak out.
Step 3: Add Roast Beef and Cheese
Layer the thinly sliced roast beef evenly over the dough. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the roast beef for that melty goodness.
Step 4: Drizzle Au Jus and Fold
Drizzle the Au Jus gravy over the meat and cheese mixture. Now, fold the edges of the dough over the filling and press to seal it well, creating a pocket for all the deliciousness.
Step 5: Season and Bake
Brush the top of the rolled dough with olive oil, then sprinkle it with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top turns golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Once baked, let the squares cool slightly before cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Serve with extra Au Jus for dipping.
Success Tips
- Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
- Texture: For a flakier dough, avoid rolling it too thin.
- Common Mistakes: Be careful not to overstuff the squares, or they may burst open while baking.
How to Serve
Serve French Dip Squares warm, alongside a small bowl of Au Jus for dipping. They are great as an appetizer at gatherings or as a satisfying main course when paired with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their delicious texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the squares up to the baking step, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, bake as directed.
2. What should I serve with French Dip Squares?
These squares pair well with a green salad or crispy fries for a complete meal.
3. Can I freeze these?
Yes, you can freeze French Dip Squares before or after baking. Just make sure they are fully cooled, and store them in an airtight container. They’re best used within three months.
4. How do I know when they’re done baking?
Look for a golden brown color on top, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
5. What if I don’t have Au Jus?
If you don’t have Au Jus gravy, you can use beef broth or make your own sauce by combining beef broth with Worcestershire sauce and seasonings.
Conclusion
French Dip Squares are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a classic favorite in a new format. Easy to make and sure to please a crowd, they are perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a deliciously satisfying treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Related Recipes
- Mini Beef Wellingtons
- Cheesy Garlic Bread Balls
- Stuffed Crescent Roll-Ups
- Classic Meatball Subs
- Savory Stuffed Puff Pastry Bites
French Dip Squares
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb roast beef, thinly sliced
- 1 package crescent roll dough
- 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Swiss or provolone)
- 1 cup Au Jus gravy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the crescent roll dough on a baking sheet, pressing it into a rectangle and sealing any perforations.
- Layer the roast beef evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Drizzle the Au Jus gravy over the beef and cheese, then fold the edges of the dough over the filling and press to seal.
- Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized pieces. Serve with extra Au Jus for dipping.