Cheesy French Dip Sliders are a party-perfect appetizer that combines tender roast beef, gooey provolone, and sweet Hawaiian rolls, all topped with a savory buttery glaze. This recipe elevates the classic French dip into bite-sized sliders, making them ideal for entertaining, game day gatherings, or even weeknight dinners.
The combination of warm, soft rolls with melted cheese and a flavorful butter topping makes each slider irresistibly indulgent. Served alongside au jus for dipping, these sliders offer the perfect balance of richness, umami, and slight sweetness. They are easy to assemble, quick to bake, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it layers flavors and textures to create an elevated slider experience while keeping preparation simple.
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Flavor layering: Savory roast beef, melted provolone, and buttery glaze combine with optional crispy onions for crunch.
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Cooking logic: Baking the sliders uncovered allows the cheese to melt perfectly and the top of the rolls to develop a golden finish.
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Balance: Sweet Hawaiian rolls offset the richness of the beef and butter topping, while au jus adds moisture and depth for dipping.
Each component is designed to complement the others, ensuring every bite is satisfying and flavorful.
Recipe Info
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders
Category: Appetizers / Sandwiches / Party Recipes
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
Ingredient Breakdown
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
Soft, slightly sweet rolls provide structure and contrast the savory fillings. Their tender texture holds the sandwich together without becoming dense.
Deli Roast Beef
Thinly sliced roast beef offers tender, juicy protein that pairs beautifully with melted cheese and au jus.
Provolone Cheese
Mild and creamy, provolone melts evenly over the beef for a smooth, savory layer.
Butter Topping
Butter is combined with au jus mix, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion powder, and sesame seeds to create a rich glaze that flavors the rolls as they bake.
Crispy Fried Onions (Optional)
Add crunch and extra flavor for texture contrast in each bite.
Au Jus
Prepared from the remaining au jus mix, this dipping sauce enhances the slider with moisture, umami, and a classic French dip experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Rolls
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with 2 tablespoons of butter and line with parchment paper. Slice the rolls horizontally, keeping them attached, and place the bottom half in the pan.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
Layer 6 slices of provolone, the roast beef, optional crispy onions, the remaining 6 slices of cheese, and top with the other half of the rolls.
Step 3: Make the Butter Topping
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 8 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 1 tablespoon of au jus mix, Worcestershire sauce, sesame seeds, garlic, and onion powder. Spread evenly over the top and sides of the rolls. Reserve any leftover butter mixture.
Step 4: Bake
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops of the rolls are golden brown.
Step 5: Prepare Au Jus
Heat the remaining au jus mix with water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Serve
Cut sliders along the roll divisions and serve warm with au jus for dipping.
Texture and Flavor Profile
These sliders are soft and tender, with melted provolone creating a creamy mouthfeel that contrasts with the optional crispy onions. The buttery topping infuses the rolls with savory flavor, while au jus adds moisture and rich umami depth. Sweetness from the Hawaiian rolls balances the savory beef and cheese, making every bite harmonious and satisfying.
Tips for Best Results
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Use fresh Hawaiian rolls for softness and a slightly sweet finish.
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Slice rolls horizontally carefully to keep them attached for easy baking.
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Spread butter topping evenly to ensure all rolls are flavorful.
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Serve immediately after baking to enjoy melted cheese and soft rolls.
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Heat au jus thoroughly to enhance dipping flavor.
Variations
Cheese Variations
Swap provolone for cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
Protein Swap
Use turkey, ham, or roast chicken instead of roast beef.
Extra Crunch
Add fried onions or pickled jalapeños for texture and zing.
Mini Sliders
Use slider rolls for bite-sized party-friendly versions.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with au jus for dipping.
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Pair with potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
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Ideal for game day, casual gatherings, or holiday appetizers.
Storage and Reheating
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Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 5–10 minutes to restore melted cheese and warmth.
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Do not store with au jus; prepare fresh before serving.
Nutrition Overview
Approximate per slider:
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Calories: 280 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 28 g
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Protein: 15 g
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Fat: 14 g
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Saturated Fat: 7 g
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Sodium: 550 mg
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Fiber: 1 g
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Sugar: 5 g
Values may vary depending on the brand of rolls, cheese, and roast beef used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble sliders and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to enjoy warm cheese and fresh rolls.
Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes. Assemble and wrap tightly, then freeze. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Do I have to use the butter topping?
The topping adds flavor and color, but sliders can be baked without it if needed.
What is the best cheese to use?
Provolone melts well, but cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella are excellent alternatives.
Cheesy French Dip Sliders are a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines tender roast beef, melty cheese, and buttery Hawaiian rolls with flavorful au jus. Perfect for parties, game days, or easy weeknight dinners, these sliders are simple to assemble, visually appealing, and packed with flavor. The combination of textures and layers of savory, sweet, and umami flavors ensures they are always a hit with family and guests alike.
Cheesy French Dip Sliders
Ingredients
- Sliders:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 12 Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
- 1 lb deli roast beef
- 12 slices provolone cheese
- 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions optional
- Butter Topping:
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix divided
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- ¾ teaspoon dried minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Rolls:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with 2 tablespoons of butter and line with parchment paper.
- Slice the block of rolls horizontally, keeping them attached, and place the bottom half in the pan.
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Layer 6 slices of cheese, roast beef, optional fried onions, remaining 6 cheese slices, then top with the other half of the rolls.
- Make the Butter Topping:
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 8 tablespoons butter. Add 1 tablespoon of au jus mix, Worcestershire sauce, sesame seeds, garlic, and onion powder. Whisk to combine.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the top and sides of the rolls. Reserve leftover butter mixture for future use.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and tops of rolls are golden brown.
- Prepare Au Jus:
- Heat remaining au jus mix with water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then simmer until slightly thickened.
- Serve:
- Cut sliders along the roll divisions and serve warm with au jus for dipping.
Notes
