French Dip Squares – Buttery, Cheesy & Melt-in-Your-Mouth Delicious

French Dip Squares – Buttery, Cheesy & Melt-in-Your-Mouth Delicious

These savory squares are inspired by the classic French Dip sandwich—crispy, flaky pastry filled with tender beef, melty cheese, and served with rich au jus for dipping. Perfect for parties, snacks, or an easy dinner!

 Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry or crescent-style dough
• 2 cups cooked shredded or thinly sliced beef (leftover roast, slow-cooked beef, or deli roast beef)
• 1 small onion, finely sliced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1½–2 cups shredded cheese (Swiss, provolone, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

For the Au Jus (Dipping Sauce)

• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for deeper flavor)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Black pepper, to taste

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized. (Skip this step if not using onion.)
3. Add the beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

2. Assemble the Squares

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking pan (9×13-inch works well) with parchment paper.
3. Roll out the puff pastry or crescent dough and press it into the pan, covering the bottom evenly.
4. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the dough.
5. Spread the beef mixture evenly on top.
6. Add the remaining cheese over the beef.
7. If using puff pastry, place another sheet on top and seal the edges.
   • If using crescent dough, gently stretch pieces to cover the filling and pinch seams together.
8. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.

3. Bake

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
• Let cool for 5–10 minutes, then cut into squares.

4. Make the Au Jus

1. In a small saucepan, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer for 5–7 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve the French Dip Squares warm with small bowls of au jus for dipping.
• Pair with a green salad, fries, or roasted vegetables.
• Perfect as an appetizer, party food, or a cozy family meal.

 Tips & Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
• Use horseradish cheese or add a little Dijon mustard inside for a classic French Dip twist.
• These reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer.