These French Dip Biscuits are a fun twist on a classic sandwich! Soft biscuits are filled with tender beef, perfect for dipping in a tasty broth.
Honestly, who doesn’t love dipping food? It’s like having a cozy hug for your taste buds. I love serving these with a side of crispy fries to complete the meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the biscuits. You might substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but it will change the texture a bit. Bob’s Red Mill or a gluten-free blend are also great for gluten-free options.
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking and becomes tender. If you want a leaner option, try a top round roast or even shredded chicken in place of beef for a lighter meal.
Buttermilk: Essential for fluffy biscuits! If you don’t have any, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This creates a similar tangy flavor.
Cheese: Provolone and Swiss are excellent options, but don’t hesitate to experiment! Cheddar or mozzarella work well too. If you prefer dairy-free, try a non-dairy cheese option.
How Can I Make the Best Biscuits?
Making biscuits can be tricky, but here are some key tips to ensure they turn out fluffy and delicious!
- Keep your ingredients cold. Cold butter helps create air pockets, making your biscuits light. Don’t let the butter sit out too long!
- Mix gently. When combining the buttermilk, ensure to only mix until just combined. Overworking the dough can result in tough biscuits.
- Use a sharp cutter. A clean cut helps the biscuits rise better. You can even press down and twist slightly as you cut.
Remember to brush the tops with melted butter when they come out of the oven for a lovely shine and added flavor!
French Dip Biscuits
Ingredients
For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup buttermilk, cold
For the Beef:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs
For Assembly:
- 8-10 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and 15 minutes to bake the biscuits, plus 7-8 hours for the beef to slow cook (if using a slow cooker). You’ll have delicious, tender French Dip Biscuits ready to enjoy!
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and sear the beef on all sides until nicely browned (about 4 minutes per side). Next, transfer the beef to a slow cooker or a large pot. Add the sliced onions, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Cover and let it cook on low heat for 7-8 hours in a slow cooker or simmer gently on the stove for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and can easily be shredded. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the beef and keep it warm. Don’t forget to save the cooking liquid (au jus) for later dipping!
2. Make the Biscuits:
Now, let’s get those biscuits ready! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Take your cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers, until it looks like coarse crumbs. Pour in the cold buttermilk and stir gently just until everything is combined—don’t overdo it! Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it comes together. Roll or pat the dough out to about 3/4 inch thick, then cut out biscuits using a round cutter (about 2-2.5 inches in diameter). Place the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 12-15 minutes, until they are golden brown.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
When your biscuits are ready, it’s time to assemble! Carefully slice each biscuit in half horizontally. On the bottom half of each biscuit, pile up some of that delicious shredded beef. Top it off with a slice of provolone or Swiss cheese, and then place the assembled biscuits on a baking sheet. Broil them for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
4. Serve:
To finish, garnish your biscuits with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately with a small bowl of warm reserved au jus on the side for dipping. Enjoy your savory, tender French Dip Biscuits, perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can also use the quick thaw method by sealing the frozen beef in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a couple of hours.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover biscuits and beef can be stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The beef will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For the biscuits, they’re best enjoyed within 2 days, but you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make the Biscuits Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum, which helps bind the ingredients together and provides the right texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Provolone Cheese?
If you don’t have provolone cheese on hand, Swiss cheese is a great alternative. Cheddar or mozzarella are also delicious options that melt nicely. Feel free to experiment based on your preference!