Sometimes, the simplest foods are the most comforting. Baked French Dip Biscuits combine fluffy, buttery biscuits with tender roast beef and a savory au jus, creating a dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings. This recipe brings the rich flavors of a classic French dip sandwich right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 pound roast beef, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese (optional)
- 2 cups beef broth (for au jus)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly pour in the buttermilk and stir gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to ensure soft, fluffy biscuits. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly 3–4 times. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
Cut the dough into squares or circles using a biscuit cutter and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown on top. Meanwhile, prepare the au jus by heating the beef broth with Worcestershire sauce and thyme in a small saucepan.
Slice the biscuits in half horizontally. Layer the roast beef onto the bottom half and add shredded Swiss cheese if desired. Place the top biscuit over the filling and serve alongside warm au jus for dipping.
Tips for Fluffy Biscuits
Using cold butter is key for flaky biscuits. The small chunks melt during baking, creating pockets of air that make the biscuits soft and tender.
Do not overwork the dough; gentle handling preserves the biscuit’s light texture. A light knead of 3–4 folds is sufficient.
For extra flavor, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle a pinch of salt before baking. This adds a golden sheen and subtle richness to the crust.
Roast Beef Selection
Choose thinly sliced, high-quality roast beef for the filling. Leftover roast beef from dinner works perfectly for this recipe, making it convenient and economical.
For added depth, warm the beef in a skillet with a splash of au jus before placing it in the biscuits. This ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful.
If you prefer, mix in a teaspoon of horseradish sauce for a slight kick that complements the savory beef.
Cheese and Flavor Variations
While Swiss cheese is classic, you can experiment with provolone, Gruyère, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Adding sautéed onions or caramelized mushrooms elevates the sandwich to a gourmet level. These toppings pair beautifully with the au jus and tender beef.
Fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, sprinkled on the beef or mixed into the biscuits, enhance the aromatic experience and make the dish more visually appealing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these French Dip Biscuits with a side of crispy fries, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
A small bowl of au jus on the side allows everyone to dip their sandwiches, adding a fun, interactive element to the meal.
Pair with a cold beverage like iced tea, a light beer, or sparkling water to balance the rich flavors of the beef and biscuits.
Spicy French Dip Twist
For those who enjoy a little heat, adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the roast beef can elevate the flavors. The spiciness pairs beautifully with the rich au jus and buttery biscuits.
Mix a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne powder into the biscuit dough for an extra kick. This subtle heat enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the sandwich.
You can also serve a spicy mustard or chipotle mayo on the side for dipping, offering guests the option to customize the heat level to their preference.
Vegetarian-Friendly Options
Vegetarians can enjoy a French dip-style sandwich by replacing roast beef with hearty mushrooms or roasted vegetables. Portobello mushrooms, roasted peppers, and caramelized onions work exceptionally well.
Prepare a rich vegetable broth as a substitute for traditional au jus to maintain that classic dipping experience. Add soy sauce, garlic, and herbs for depth and flavor.
Top the biscuits with melted cheese or a cashew-based vegan cheese for added richness. This makes the sandwich satisfying while keeping it plant-based.
Leftover Ideas and Storage
Leftover biscuits can be repurposed into mini sliders or breakfast sandwiches. Layer them with eggs, cheese, or deli meats for a quick and satisfying meal.
Store leftover au jus in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Slice and freeze unfilled biscuits individually, then toast them in the oven when needed. This ensures fresh-tasting sandwiches anytime, perfect for busy weekdays.
Make-Ahead Tips
Biscuits can be prepared ahead of time and baked fresh before serving. Store unbaked dough squares in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheat cooked biscuits in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore warmth and crispness.
Prepare the au jus in advance and reheat on the stovetop before serving. This allows for a stress-free meal when entertaining guests.
Nutritional Notes
These biscuits are rich and indulgent, providing protein from roast beef and healthy fats from butter.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and whole wheat flour in the biscuits. A leaner cut of roast beef also reduces saturated fat.
Balance the meal with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the hearty sandwiches.
Conclusion
Baked French Dip Biscuits are a comforting, savory treat that brings classic flavors into a simple homemade sandwich. Fluffy biscuits, tender roast beef, melted cheese, and aromatic au jus combine for a meal that delights every bite. Whether for family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
