1-First Step: Preparation and Mise en Place Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools to make the process smooth. Season the 2-3 pound beef chuck roast liberally with salt and pepper this step enhances the flavor of your slow cooker sandwiches right from the start. In a large glass measuring cup, combine 3 cups low sodium beef broth and 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce; set this aside as your base for the au jus.

2-Second Step: Searing the Meat Heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear on all sides until browned, which takes about 5 minutes per side. This step, though optional, adds depth to your easy au jus recipe and French dip overall. Once done, transfer the meat to your slow cooker.

3-Third Step: Cooking the Onions and Garlic Reduce the heat to medium and, in the same skillet, add the 2 yellow onions (quartered and thinly sliced). Cook for about 5 minutes until they soften, adding more oil if needed. Then, stir in the 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes more to release their aroma, building layers for your slow cooker French dip sandwiches.

4-Fourth Step: Building the Slow Cooker Mixture Pour a couple tablespoons of the beef broth mixture into the skillet with the onions and scrape up those tasty browned bits from the bottom this deglazes the pan and boosts flavor. For the slow cooker method, transfer the onion mixture and juices to the slow cooker with the meat. Add the remaining broth and 1 bay leaf, then cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours until the meat is very tender.

5-Fifth Step: Pressure Cooker Alternative If you’re short on time, use a pressure cooker instead: Return the beef to the pot with the onions, add the remaining broth and bay leaf, then cook on high pressure for 60 minutes followed by a 20-minute natural release. This adapts the recipe for busy parents or working professionals wanting quick beef sandwiches.

6-Final Step: Finishing Touches and Serving Once cooked, remove the meat to a cutting board and thinly slice it against the grain or shred it. Strain the cooking juices through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl to get your au jus, reserving the onions and discarding the bay leaf. Return the sliced meat and onions to the cooker, pour a little au jus over to moisten, and season with salt and pepper. Toast 4-6 rolls, fill with the meat and onions, top with 8-12 slices of cheese, and melt the cheese in a 375°F oven or under the broiler. Serve your slow cooker French dip sandwiches with the reserved au jus on the side for dipping. For added value, check out our guide to best slow cooker recipes for more ideas. The total time is about 5 hours 25 minutes, yielding 4-6 servings, and you can adapt for dietary needs like using leaner cuts.