Save to Pinterest These beef and cheese roll ups combine thinly sliced roast beef with sautéed onions and melted provolone, all wrapped in golden crescent dough. The rich au jus dipping sauce adds savory depth to every bite. Ready in just 35 minutes, they make an ideal handheld meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
The first time I made these French dip roll ups was during a rainy Sunday football game. My friends kept asking what smelled so incredible coming from the kitchen, and honestly, I hadnt planned on sharing. Now theyre my go to whenever I need something that feels impressive but only takes about half an hour from start to finish.
I made these for my sister last winter when she was recovering from surgery. She took one bite, closed her eyes, and said this was exactly what she didnt know she needed. Sometimes food really is the best medicine, especially when it involves dunking things in sauce.
Ingredients
- Thinly sliced roast beef: Deli style works beautifully here, and dont be afraid to ask for thinner slices at the counter
- Shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese: Pre shredded saves time but freshly grated melts like a dream
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: The secret weapon that makes these feel fancy without any actual effort
- Beef broth: Low sodium gives you control over the salt level in your dipping sauce
- Worcestershire sauce: This little bottle adds that deep umami punch that makes the au jus taste restaurant quality
- Small onion: Thinly slicing it instead of chopping means sweet ribbons in every bite
- Garlic clove: Fresh minced garlic blooms beautifully in that butter
- Black pepper and dried thyme: Simple seasonings that let the beef and cheese shine
- Unsalted butter: One tablespoon for the onions, another for brushing golden on top
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks and cleanup is practically nonexistent.
- Sauté the onions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a small pan over medium heat, add the onion, and cook 3 to 4 minutes until tender. Toss in the garlic, half the black pepper, and a pinch of salt for one more minute.
- Assemble the roll ups:
- Unroll that crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles. Pile some roast beef and those sautéed onions onto the wide end of each triangle, then sprinkle generously with cheese.
- Roll them tight:
- Start from the wide end and roll each triangle tightly, placing them seam side down on your prepared baking sheet like little sleeping beauties.
- Butter and season:
- Melt the remaining butter and brush it over the tops, then hit them with the remaining black pepper and thyme if youre feeling fancy.
- Bake until golden:
- Slide them into the oven for 12 to 15 minutes until theyre beautifully golden and the cheese is bubbling out the sides just a little.
- Make the au jus:
- While the roll ups bake, combine the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan. Heat over low, simmering for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve warm:
- Bring everything to the table immediately because these are best when theyre still hot and that cheese is at peak meltiness.
Save to Pinterest Last Super Bowl, I made triple batches and still ran out. People were actually hovering around the kitchen island waiting for the next tray to come out of the oven. Thats when you know a recipe is a keeper.
Make Ahead Magic
You can assemble these roll ups up to 8 hours before baking. Keep them covered in the refrigerator, then add a couple extra minutes to the baking time since theyll be cold going into the oven.
Cheese Variations
Swiss cheese adds that classic French dip vibe, while sharp cheddar kicks up the flavor profile. Sometimes I do half provolone and half something extra sharp just to keep things interesting.
Serving Suggestions
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through all that rich cheese and beef. Or go full comfort mode and serve with simple roasted potato wedges.
- Keep the au jus warm in a small slow cooker on low
- Have extra napkins ready because dipping can get messy
- These reheat surprisingly well in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes
Save to Pinterest Theres something so satisfying about food you can eat with your hands, especially when it involves dunking. Hope these become a regular in your rotation too.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I make these roll ups ahead of time?
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Yes, assemble the roll ups and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Brush with butter just before baking. The au jus can be prepared ahead and reheated when serving.
- → What cheese works best for these roll ups?
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Provolone and mozzarella both melt beautifully. Swiss cheese adds a nutty flavor, while cheddar provides sharper taste. Choose based on your preference and what you have available.
- → How do I store leftovers?
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Store cooled roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. The au jus keeps refrigerated for 4 days.
- → Can I freeze these roll ups?
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Freeze unbaked roll ups on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake frozen roll ups at 375°F for 18-22 minutes. Do not freeze after baking.
- → What can I serve with these roll ups?
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Pair with a crisp green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. For game day, serve alongside potato skins, wings, or other finger foods. A light lager or red wine complements the rich flavors.
