If you are looking for a mouthwatering appetizer or a cozy meal idea, this French Dip Crescent Rolls Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Imagine tender slices of roast beef and creamy provolone cheese wrapped in flaky, golden crescent rolls, paired with a savory Au Jus dip bursting with flavor. It’s comfort food elevated and perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself to something special. The balance of the creamy horseradish sauce with melty cheese and juicy beef inside each crescent roll is impossible to resist, making this recipe a must-try whenever you crave something warm and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started is a breeze because the ingredients are simple, yet each plays a crucial role. From the deli roast beef providing hearty richness to the flaky crescent dough offering that delightful texture, every component works in harmony to create this flavorful treat.
- ½-lb deli roast beef (thinly sliced): Choose good quality roast beef to make these rolls juicy and flavorful.
- 4 slices provolone cheese: This mild, melty cheese adds creamy richness without overpowering the roast beef.
- 4 tsp creamy horseradish sauce: Adds a subtle kick that perfectly complements the beef and cheese.
- 1 (8-oz) can refrigerated crescent rolls: The flaky, buttery dough forms the perfect golden shell.
- 1 (1-oz) packet Au Jus Gravy mix (plus water): Essential for making the savory dip that transforms these rolls into a French dip experience.
How to Make French Dip Crescent Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step sets the stage for perfectly baked crescent rolls that won’t stick and will bake evenly to a golden finish.
Step 2: Spread the Horseradish Sauce
Next, separate the crescent roll dough into eight triangles. Using a teaspoon, spread the creamy horseradish sauce over each triangle generously. This layer adds that iconic tangy warmth inside every bite of your roll.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Roast Beef
On the wide end of each dough triangle, place half a slice of provolone cheese and then top with a few slices of roast beef. Don’t skimp on the beef here; it’s the star ingredient that makes these rolls so satisfying.
Step 4: Roll and Bake
Carefully roll up each crescent starting from the wide end toward the point, enclosing all the tasty fillings. Place them on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. For a fresh pop of color and subtle flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the rolls just as they come out of the oven.
Step 5: Prepare the Au Jus Dip
While the rolls bake, prepare the Au Jus gravy according to the package instructions. This rich dipping sauce is the finishing touch that turns these crescent rolls into an irresistible French dip-style indulgence.
How to Serve French Dip Crescent Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate the presentation and flavor of your French Dip Crescent Rolls Recipe. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top brightens the rich colors and adds a fresh aroma that invites you to dig in. You could also add a little extra horseradish on the side for those who crave a spicier kick.
Side Dishes
Serve these rolls alongside crisp pickles or a tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness. A light green salad tossed with a vinaigrette balances the meal nicely without competing with the flavors of the rolls and Au Jus dip.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Arrange the crescent rolls in a circular or braided pattern on a large platter with small ramekins of Au Jus for easy dipping. You can also turn this recipe into slider-sized sandwiches, perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover French Dip Crescent Rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them sealed prevents the rolls from drying out and keeps the flavors intact for an enjoyable snack later.
Freezing
You can freeze these rolls before baking by wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. Freezing allows you to prep in advance without sacrificing that fresh-baked taste.
Reheating
To reheat, place the rolls on a baking sheet and warm in a 350ºF oven for about 8 to 10 minutes until heated through and the dough has regained its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crescent dough soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is classic for its mild and melty quality, Swiss, mozzarella, or even cheddar can be delicious alternatives depending on your flavor preferences.
Is it necessary to use horseradish sauce?
Horseradish sauce adds a signature tangy sharpness that complements the roast beef beautifully. If you prefer, you could substitute with mustard or skip it, but the flavor profile will change.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the roast beef with grilled mushrooms or seasoned seitan and skip the Au Jus dip or use a vegetarian gravy alternative to create a vegetarian-friendly version.
How long can I keep the Au Jus dip once prepared?
Au Jus can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before serving to maintain the rich, warm dipping consistency.
What’s the best way to serve leftover Au Jus?
Leftover Au Jus is great as a dipping sauce for fries, roasted vegetables, or even drizzled over mashed potatoes for an extra savory touch.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this delightful French Dip Crescent Rolls Recipe in your culinary arsenal, you’re just moments away from creating a warm, flavorful dish that everyone will love. Whether for a casual dinner or a sharing platter at your next gathering, these crescent rolls are a joyful blend of comfort and elegance. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy French dip!
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French Dip Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
French Dip Crescent Rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring thinly sliced roast beef and provolone cheese wrapped in buttery crescent roll dough, baked to a golden brown and served with savory Au Jus for dipping. Perfect for gatherings or a tasty snack.
Ingredients
For the Rolls
- ½ lb deli roast beef (thinly sliced)
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 tsp creamy horseradish sauce
- 1 (8-oz) can refrigerated crescent rolls
For the Au Jus
- 1 (1-oz) packet Au Jus Gravy mix
- Water (amount as per packet instructions)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Crescent Rolls: Separate the crescent roll dough into 8 individual triangles. Spread approximately ½ teaspoon of creamy horseradish sauce over each crescent roll to add a spicy kick.
- Assemble Rolls: On the wide end of each crescent triangle, place half a slice of provolone cheese, then top with slices of roast beef. Carefully roll up each crescent starting at the wide end and place the rolled crescents seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Rolls: Bake the assembled crescent rolls in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Once baked, optionally sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
- Prepare Au Jus: While the rolls bake, prepare the Au Jus gravy according to the package directions by mixing the gravy packet with the appropriate amount of water and heating it.
- Serve: Serve the hot French Dip Crescent Rolls immediately alongside the warm Au Jus gravy for dipping, enhancing the flavor and creating a delicious savory experience.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, adjust the amount of horseradish sauce or omit it entirely.
- Use thinly sliced deli roast beef for ease of rolling and better texture.
- To make this recipe ahead, assemble rolls and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.
- Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice color contrast and subtle herb flavor.
- Au Jus gravy mix can be substituted with homemade beef broth if preferred.
