Delicious French Dip Squares are a fun twist on the classic sandwich, packed with tender roast beef, melty cheese, and a soft, buttery dough that’s perfect for sharing. These bite-sized squares soak up all the flavors of a traditional French dip, with a rich beefy sauce that makes every bite super tasty and satisfying.
I love making these for family get-togethers or game day because they’re easy to eat and everyone can grab a handful. I usually serve them warm right out of the oven, so the cheese is gooey and the beef is tender. A little tip I’ve found helpful is to keep some extra beef broth on the side for dipping—it makes them even better and keeps that French dip vibe alive.
These squares remind me of those cozy moments when simple food feels special, like sharing a snack around the table with friends and family. If you like French dip sandwiches but want something you can pop into your mouth without any mess, these are just the right choice. They’re also great when you want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Roast Beef: Choosing tender, cooked roast beef makes a big difference. Leftover roast or deli-style beef works well too. For a leaner option, try thinly sliced turkey or chicken.
Dough: Crescent roll dough is easy and creates a soft, buttery crust. Pizza dough adds a bit more chewiness. Both are great choices, so use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness, while mozzarella brings gooey creaminess. You can swap mozzarella for provolone or Swiss for a different flavor.
Beef Broth & Sauce: The dipping sauce is key to that French dip feel. If you want a richer sauce, add a splash of red wine or soy sauce. Low sodium broth works well to control salt levels.
How Do You Make Sure the Squares Stay Juicy and Don’t Get Soggy?
Balancing juicy filling with a crisp crust can be tricky. Here’s how to nail it:
- Press the dough firmly on the bottom to create a good base.
- Layer cheese first to act as a barrier so the dough doesn’t get too wet from the beef juices.
- Drain excess juices from the roast beef before layering.
- Brush butter on top for a crispy, golden crust.
- Bake until cheese bubbles and edges are golden for perfect texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8 inch baking dish – perfect size for baking the squares evenly and easy to slice.
- Rolling pin – helps to spread out crescent or pizza dough smoothly for an even crust.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – makes clean cuts for perfect square servings without squishing the layers.
- Small saucepan – great for heating and mixing the dipping sauce quickly.
- Basting brush – useful to evenly spread melted butter on top for a golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef for shredded cooked chicken for a lighter option that still pairs well with the cheese and broth.
- Try provolone or Swiss cheese instead of mozzarella for a milder, nuttier flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth and sweetness.
- Sprinkle some dried thyme or rosemary on top before baking for a fragrant herbal twist.
How to Make Delicious French Dip Squares
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) roast beef, thinly sliced or shredded (preferably cooked and tender)
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough (about 8 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Dipping Sauce:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling roughly 30-35 minutes. You’ll also spend a few minutes heating the dipping sauce while the squares bake.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Dough:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. Roll out your crescent roll or pizza dough evenly to fit the bottom of the dish, pressing seams close together if using crescent rolls.
2. Layer the Filling:
Spread half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dough. Next, layer the thinly sliced or shredded roast beef on top. If you choose to include onions, spread the thin slices evenly over the beef. Then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the remaining cheddar cheese to finish the layers.
3. Add Butter and Bake:
Brush the melted butter over the top cheese layer. This helps create a golden, crispy crust. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.
4. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While baking, heat the beef broth in a small saucepan. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Keep the sauce warm until ready to serve.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, allow the squares to cool just a bit. Sprinkle parsley over the top as a fresh garnish. Cut into squares and serve warm alongside the dipping sauce. Dip each square into the beef broth for that classic French dip flavor. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen roast beef, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before assembling the squares. This will help prevent excess moisture and keep the crust from getting soggy.
Can I Make French Dip Squares Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the squares up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving, and warm the dipping sauce separately.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Crescent or Pizza Dough?
You can try using puff pastry for a flakier crust or even biscuit dough for a softer texture. Just adjust baking time as needed and keep an eye on how the dough cooks.
