If you love the rich, comforting flavors of a classic roast beef sandwich but want to add a fun twist for your next gathering, this French Dip Squares Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender, juicy roast beef layered with melty mozzarella and Swiss cheeses, all nestled between buttery crescent dough, then baked to golden perfection. Served alongside warm au jus for dipping, these squares deliver all the cozy, savory goodness of traditional French dip sandwiches in a party-friendly, bite-sized format. Once you try this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and the way each ingredient contributes to the final flavor and texture. From the flaky crescent dough that forms a golden crust, to the savory roast beef and the blend of cheeses that melt beautifully, every component plays an essential role.
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent dough: Provides a tender, flaky base and top crust that bakes up golden and delicious.
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style): The star protein, offering rich, juicy flavor with a satisfying texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly, adding creamy richness to the layers.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Brings a slightly nutty, tangy note that pairs beautifully with the beef.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Helps bind the sauce and gives a subtle creaminess.
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a bright, sharp kick that cuts through the richness.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory flavor profile with its umami punch.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Offers a warm, aromatic undertone that complements the meats and cheeses.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors, balancing every bite.
- 1/2 cup au jus (for dipping): The essential dipping sauce, perfect for soaking each square in rich, flavorful juices.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to finish the dish.
How to Make French Dip Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll one can of crescent dough and carefully press it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring the entire bottom is evenly covered. This golden foundation will support all the delicious layers to come.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This zesty mixture is the secret layer of flavor that will marry the roast beef and cheeses, infusing every square with a perfect balance of tang, creaminess, and spice.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Spread the sauce evenly over the crescent dough in your baking dish. Next, layer the thinly sliced roast beef generously on top, creating a hearty base. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Swiss cheese over the beef, allowing the cheeses to melt and meld with the savory meat during baking.
Step 4: Add the Top Crust
Unroll the second can of crescent dough and gently place it over the layered ingredients. Press the edges down to seal everything inside like a savory pocket that bakes to golden, flaky perfection.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top dough is beautifully golden and the cheese inside has melted. Once baked, take the dish out and allow it to cool for a few minutes — this helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut neat squares.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Cut the baked casserole into squares and get ready to serve. These bite-sized portions are perfect for dipping into warm au jus, fulfilling that classic French dip experience in a fun, shareable way.
How to Serve French Dip Squares Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds not just a lovely pop of green color but also a hint of brightness that keeps the dish feeling fresh and inviting. Feel free to experiment with a light drizzle of horseradish sauce or a scattering of thinly sliced green onions for a personalized touch.
Side Dishes
French Dip Squares are quite filling, but pairing them with a crisp side salad or some roasted vegetables adds balance and fresh texture. A crunchy coleslaw or a bowl of tangy pickles would also complement the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
These squares are a star at parties and game days, so consider serving them on a wooden platter with small bowls of au jus for dipping. For a more elegant gathering, plate them individually with a dollop of horseradish cream and a sprig of parsley. Kids and adults alike will love grabbing squares like mini sandwiches!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover French Dip Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, making them great for quick lunches or snacks after a busy day.
Freezing
If you’d like to prepare this in advance, French Dip Squares freeze well — just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months to enjoy later without sacrificing taste or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the squares into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that flaky texture intact, but if you’re in a hurry, a quick zap on medium power can do the trick.
FAQs
Can I use different meats in the French Dip Squares Recipe?
Absolutely! While roast beef is traditional and perfect here, you can experiment with sliced turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms or plant-based deli slices to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Is it necessary to use both mozzarella and Swiss cheese?
Using both cheeses creates a wonderful balance of creamy meltiness and nutty depth — key to the flavor complexity. However, if you only have one on hand, either will work; just expect a slightly different taste and texture.
How do I make homemade au jus if I don’t have store-bought?
You can easily make au jus at home by simmering beef broth with a splash of Worcestershire sauce and some seasonings like garlic and onion powder. Simmer until flavorful and reduce slightly for a rich dipping sauce.
Can I prepare the French Dip Squares Recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! Assemble the squares in your baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or entertaining.
What is the best way to cut the squares without them falling apart?
Allowing the French Dip Squares to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set, making slicing easier. Use a sharp, serrated knife and cut gently with a rocking motion to keep the layers intact.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about gathering around a plate of French Dip Squares Recipe — warm, cheesy, and bursting with savory roast beef flavor. It’s a dish that brings people together and makes every occasion feel cozy and festive. Whether you’re serving it for a casual get-together or a family dinner, these golden squares promise to delight every time. So don’t wait—grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
French Dip Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
French Dip Squares are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring layers of deli-style roast beef, melted mozzarella and Swiss cheeses, and a flavorful mayo-Dijon sauce sandwiched between two layers of buttery crescent dough. Baked until golden brown and served with warm au jus for dipping, these savory squares bring all the flavors of the classic French dip sandwich in a convenient, shareable form.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent dough
Filling
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving
- 1/2 cup au jus (for dipping)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the squares.
- Prepare the base layer: Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, covering the entire surface.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the sauce: Evenly spread the mayonnaise mixture over the crescent dough base layer in the baking dish.
- Add the roast beef and cheese: Layer the thinly sliced roast beef over the sauce, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Swiss cheeses on top to create a cheesy, meaty filling.
- Top with remaining dough: Unroll the second can of crescent dough and lay it over the cheese and beef layers. Press down the edges firmly to seal the filling inside.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top dough is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Cool and slice: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Then slice the bake into squares for serving.
- Serve: Plate the French Dip Squares and serve warm with a side of warm au jus for dipping. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute roast beef with leftover roast or any deli-style cooked beef.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or horseradish to the mayonnaise mixture.
- For a crispier crust, bake on a lower rack of your oven or use a baking stone.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Au jus can be store-bought or homemade using beef broth and seasonings.
