French Dip Soup

French Dip Soup

French Dip Soup is a delicious, savory twist on the classic French Dip sandwich. It captures the heart of the original dish—tender roast beef, rich beef broth, and the irresistible flavor of au jus, but it transforms these elements into a comforting, hearty soup.

This recipe is perfect for those cold evenings when you want a warm, filling meal that’s packed with flavor.

The French Dip sandwich, typically made with thinly sliced roast beef and served with a side of au jus for dipping, is a staple in many diners. In this soup version, all the familiar flavors are simmered together in a delicious broth, with tender chunks of beef, sautéed onions, and aromatic seasonings, creating a rich, comforting bowl of soup.

It’s easy to make and can be served as a main course or paired with a side of crusty bread for dipping, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb roast beef (thinly sliced, or use pre-cooked roast beef, shredded)

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

6 cups beef broth (preferably low-sodium)

1 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with beef broth)

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 teaspoons dried thyme

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Cheese Toasts (optional garnish):

4 slices of French bread or baguette

1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or Swiss cheese)

1 tablespoon butter, melted

1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

How to Make:

Prepare the Roast Beef and Vegetables:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced roast beef to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the beef is lightly browned. If you’re using pre-cooked roast beef, simply shred it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the pot. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

In the same pot, add the sliced onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Build the Soup Base:

Return the beef to the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the beef broth, dry red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the soup cook for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The beef should become tender and the broth rich with flavor.

Optional Step – Thicken the Soup:

If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the soup while stirring, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the soup thickens to your desired consistency.

Prepare the Cheese Toasts:

While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the slices of French bread or baguette on a baking sheet and lightly brush them with melted butter. Sprinkle the garlic powder on top (if using), then top each slice with shredded provolone or Swiss cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is toasted. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Serve:

Ladle the French Dip Soup into bowls. For added flavor, serve the soup with the cheese toasts on the side. The toasts are perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth, much like the original French Dip sandwich. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional pepper if desired.

Chef’s Note:

Beef Selection: The key to a great French Dip Soup is the beef. If you’re using fresh roast beef, opt for a tender cut like sirloin or a well-marbled roast that can hold up to the simmering process. If using pre-cooked roast beef, make sure it’s sliced thinly to ensure it softens and absorbs the soup’s flavors. Shredded roast beef can also work well for this recipe.

Broth and Seasoning: The beef broth serves as the base of this soup, and using a high-quality or homemade broth can make a big difference in flavor. The addition of red wine and Worcestershire sauce adds depth and complexity to the broth. If you’re avoiding wine, simply use more beef broth to make up for the liquid. Taste the soup as it simmers and adjust the seasoning as necessary. A little more salt or pepper may be needed to balance the flavors.

Wine Alternative: If you prefer to avoid wine, you can substitute it with more beef broth, but the wine imparts a rich flavor that complements the beef. You could also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity and depth if you’re skipping the wine.

Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add cornstarch as described, or you can puree a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother, creamier texture. Just be sure to leave some chunks of beef and onions for texture.

Cheese Toasts: The cheese toasts are optional but highly recommended, as they replicate the dipping experience of a French Dip sandwich. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for different flavors. If you want a more decadent soup, top the soup with the toasts and bake everything together for a French Dip Soup gratin.

Make Ahead: French Dip Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat, adding a little extra broth if necessary.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 25 g

Fat: 18 g

Saturated Fat: 7 g

Carbohydrates: 12 g

Fiber: 1 g

Sugars: 4 g

Cholesterol: 50 mg

Sodium: 850 mg

Potassium: 600 mg

Vitamin A: 10% DV

Vitamin C: 15% DV

Calcium: 15% DV

Iron: 15% DV

Conclusion:

French Dip Soup takes the rich, savory flavors of the classic sandwich and transforms them into a hearty, soul-warming bowl of comfort. With tender beef, flavorful broth, caramelized onions, and the addition of melty cheese toasts, this soup is sure to become a go-to recipe for anyone who loves French Dip sandwiches. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for serving a crowd. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for dinner, French Dip Soup is a delicious and satisfying choice that will warm you up from the inside out.