Name: Ultimate French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups: Beefy & Delicious!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese; 4 large flour tortillas; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish); For the Au Jus:; 2 cups good quality beef broth or stock; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (non-alcoholic); 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are, in my opinion, about to become your new favorite go-to recipe for effortless entertaining and satisfying snacks. I simply adore how they capture the deep, savory essence of a classic French Dip sandwich – tender roast beef, rich caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese – all cleverly contained within a soft tortilla, ready to be dipped into a warm, aromatic au jus. It’s a genius twist on a beloved American comfort food, and one I know you’ll love.

The iconic French Dip sandwich, a culinary legend with roots often debated between early 20th-century Los Angeles delis, inspires this convenient appetizer. While traditional French Dips are hearty sandwiches, these roll-ups transform that beloved flavor profile into a more versatile, bite-sized format. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste – the perfect marriage of salty, umami, and creamy – but also for its appealing texture and unparalleled convenience. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, need a quick party appetizer, or are simply looking for a fun and easy lunch alternative, these French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups deliver on all fronts. They’re simple to prepare, utterly delicious, and perfectly dippable, making them an instant crowd-pleaser that guests will rave about.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 4-5 cups)
¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
¹⁄₄ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
12 large flour tortillas (10-inch size is ideal)
1 ½ pounds thinly sliced deli roast beef (high-quality for best results)
12 slices provolone cheese, or Swiss cheese, or a combination
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing tortillas)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

For the Au Jus:

4 cups good quality beef broth or beef stock (low sodium is preferred so you can adjust seasoning)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon soy sauce (enhances umami)
2 cloves garlic, minced
¹⁄₂ teaspoon dried thyme (or a sprig of fresh thyme)
¹⁄₄ teaspoon dried rosemary (or a small sprig of fresh rosemary)
1 bay leaf
Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for a slightly thicker jus, if desired)

I am so excited to share this incredible recipe for French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups with you. It takes all the savory, meaty, cheesy goodness of a classic French Dip sandwich and transforms it into a fun, dippable, and utterly delicious roll-up. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, entertaining, or even a sophisticated game-day snack. Let’s dive into making this wonderfully flavorful dish!

Preparing the Caramelized Onions

The first step, and arguably one of the most important for developing that quintessential French Dip flavor, is caramelizing your onions. This process requires a bit of patience, but I promise you, the rich, sweet, and savory depth it adds is absolutely worth every minute.

Slice the Onions: Begin by carefully slicing your two large yellow onions very thinly. I like to cut them in half first, then slice them into crescent moons. Aim for uniform thickness, as this will help them cook evenly.
Heat the Pan: Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or unsalted butter. Once the oil shimmers or the butter is melted, add your thinly sliced onions.
Begin the Slow Cook: Toss the onions to coat them thoroughly in the oil or butter. Sprinkle them with ¹⁄₂ teaspoon of salt and ¹⁄₄ teaspoon of black pepper. The salt helps to draw out moisture, which is crucial for caramelization.
Patience is Key: This is where the magic happens. Cook the onions slowly, stirring frequently – every 5-7 minutes initially, then more often as they soften and darken. Resist the urge to crank up the heat; high heat will burn them instead of caramelizing them. We’re aiming for a deep, golden-brown color, not a charred black. This process can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, sometimes even an hour, depending on your stove and pan.
Develop the Color: As the onions cook down, they will release their moisture, soften, and eventually start to turn translucent. Keep going! They will then progress to a pale golden, then a rich amber, and finally a deep, beautiful mahogany brown. They will reduce significantly in volume, transforming into a sweet, jammy consistency. If you notice any bits sticking to the bottom of the pan and getting too dark, add a tablespoon or two of water or beef broth to deglaze the pan and scrape up those flavorful bits.
Set Aside: Once your onions have achieved that perfect deep caramelized state, remove them from the heat and set them aside. They are now ready to be a star component in our French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups.

Preparing the Au Jus

No French Dip is complete without a rich, savory au jus for dipping! This flavorful broth is what truly ties all the elements of our French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups together. I love making my own because I can control the depth of flavor and seasoning.

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of good quality beef broth or beef stock. If you have the time, using a high-quality, low-sodium beef stock will give you the best base to build upon. Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (these both add an incredible depth of umami), 2 cloves of minced garlic, ¹⁄₂ teaspoon of dried thyme (or a fresh sprig), ¹⁄₄ teaspoon of dried rosemary (or a fresh sprig), and 1 bay leaf.
Simmer to Infuse: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it steep for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld and deepen beautifully. The longer you let it gently simmer, the more pronounced the flavors will become.
Taste and Adjust: After simmering, carefully remove the bay leaf and any herb sprigs. Taste the au jus. This is your chance to adjust the seasoning. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper. Remember that the roast beef and cheese will also contribute saltiness, so aim for a well-balanced flavor that isn’t overly salty.
Optional Thickening: If you prefer a slightly thicker au jus, which some people do for easier dipping, you can create a cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. While the au jus is still simmering, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to whisk gently for about 1-2 minutes until the au jus has thickened slightly. It should coat the back of a spoon lightly. Don’t overdo it; we want a jus, not a gravy!
Keep Warm: Once your au jus is perfect, keep it warm on very low heat until you are ready to serve the French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups. This ensures a delightful warm dipping experience.

Assembling the French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups

Now comes the fun part – assembling these delicious roll-ups! This is where all our hard work on the caramelized onions and au jus really comes together to create a harmonious symphony of flavors in our French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups.

Preheat Oven & Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large 9×13-inch baking dish. If you don’t have a baking dish that can fit all 12 roll-ups snugly, you might need two dishes or bake them in batches. We want them to fit relatively closely to each other.
Prepare Tortillas: Lay out your 12 large flour tortillas on a clean surface. Sometimes tortillas can be a bit stiff, especially if they’ve been in the fridge. If yours are, gently warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds each, or quickly in a dry skillet, to make them more pliable and less prone to tearing. This will make rolling much easier! Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and have a pastry brush ready.
Layer the Cheese: For each tortilla, lay one slice of provolone (or Swiss) cheese directly onto the tortilla. I find it’s best to place the cheese first. It acts as a barrier, helping to prevent the roast beef juices from making the tortilla too soggy, and it melts beautifully. If your cheese slices are too small to cover the tortilla adequately, you can slightly overlap two smaller pieces.
Add Roast Beef: Generously layer about 2 ounces of thinly sliced deli roast beef over the cheese. I like to arrange it so it covers most of the tortilla, leaving about an inch clear at the edges for easier rolling. Don’t be shy with the roast beef – this is a French Dip, after all! If your roast beef is clumped, gently separate the slices for more even distribution.
Spoon on Caramelized Onions: Evenly distribute a generous spoonful (about 1-2 tablespoons) of your sweet, jammy caramelized onions over the roast beef. Ensure that each roll-up gets a good helping of this golden goodness.
Roll ‘Em Up Tight: Now it’s time to roll! Start from one edge of the tortilla and roll it up tightly, like a burrito. Make sure to tuck in the sides as you roll to keep all the fillings securely inside. The tighter you roll, the better they will hold their shape during baking. Once rolled, place each tortilla seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Arrange them snugly next to each other in a single layer.
Brush with Butter: Once all your French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are nestled in the baking dish, brush the tops of them with the melted unsalted butter. This will help them turn a beautiful golden brown and achieve a slightly crispy exterior as they bake.

Baking the Roll Ups

The final step before serving these incredible French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups is to bake them to golden, cheesy perfection. This short stint in the oven will melt the cheese, warm the fillings through, and give the tortillas a lovely texture.

Bake Until Golden: Place the baking dish with your butter-brushed roll-ups into the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tortillas are lightly golden brown and slightly crispy around the edges, and the provolone cheese inside is completely melted and gooey. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen – that’s when you know they are almost ready!
Check for Melted Cheese: You can gently lift one end of a roll-up to peek inside and ensure the cheese has fully melted. This is key for the classic French Dip experience. If you like a little extra crispness, you can turn on the broiler for the last minute or two, but watch them very carefully to prevent burning!
Rest Briefly: Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups rest for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the fillings to set slightly, making them easier to slice and handle without everything oozing out immediately.

Serving the French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups

You’ve put in all the love and effort, and now it’s time for the delicious payoff! Serving these French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups is just as important as preparing them, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy that perfect bite.

Slice and Garnish: Carefully transfer the warm roll-ups to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll-up in half diagonally. This creates a visually appealing presentation and makes them easier to manage for dipping. Arrange the sliced roll-ups beautifully on a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Present the Au Jus: Ladle your warm, aromatic au jus into individual small dipping bowls for each guest, or into one larger communal bowl for family-style serving. I personally love having my own little bowl of jus – it feels fancy and prevents any double-dipping controversies!
Serve Immediately: Serve the French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups immediately while they are still warm, alongside the steaming au jus. The warmth is crucial for the melted cheese and the tender roast beef. Encourage everyone to dip generously!
Pairing Suggestions: These roll-ups are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, some crispy seasoned fries, or even a side of coleslaw to cut through the richness. For an extra kick, a small dish of horseradish sauce or a dollop of spicy brown mustard on the side can be a delightful addition.
Enjoy the Compliments: Prepare yourself for rave reviews! These French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are truly a crowd-pleaser, combining comfort food nostalgia with a fun, convenient twist. The combination of savory roast beef, sweet caramelized onions, gooey provolone, and the incredible dipping jus creates an unforgettable experience that will have everyone reaching for more. Each bite is packed with that classic French Dip flavor, but in an exciting new format that makes them perfect for any gathering or a special weeknight meal.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed through the simple yet utterly brilliant creation that is the
French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups. I genuinely believe this recipe is an absolute game-changer, not just for its incredible flavor profile but also for its sheer versatility and the ease with which it comes together. It truly takes the beloved, classic French Dip sandwich and reimagines it into a bite-sized, irresistible format that is perfect for just about any occasion. Think about it: all the savory, beefy goodness, the gooey, melty cheese, and that essential, deeply flavorful au jus for dipping, all wrapped up in a convenient, crispy tortilla. It’s an experience that’s both familiar and delightfully fresh.

Why These French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups Are a Must-Try:

From the first bite, you’ll understand why these are destined to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. They offer that perfect balance of textures – the slight crispness of the tortilla giving way to the tender, thinly sliced roast beef and the warm, oozy provolone. The savory depth of the au jus, which is truly non-negotiable for the authentic experience, elevates every single mouthful, making each roll-up a miniature explosion of comfort food perfection. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, an impressive appetizer to wow your guests, or the ultimate snack for game day, these roll-ups check all the boxes. They’re proof that some of the best culinary innovations come from taking something classic and giving it a clever, accessible twist. I promise you, once you try them, you’ll be wondering where these
French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups have been all your life.

Creative Serving Suggestions and Exciting Variations:

Now, while these roll-ups are undeniably fantastic on their own, part of the joy of cooking is making a dish your own, and this recipe offers ample opportunity for customization. For serving, don’t just stop at the au jus! While it’s crucial for the authentic French Dip experience, consider offering a creamy horseradish sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of a kick. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a fresh counterpoint to the richness of the beef and cheese, making it a complete meal. Or, for a truly indulgent spread, serve them alongside a bowl of homemade tomato soup or a side of crispy onion rings. They’re also phenomenal paired with a platter of colorful crudités and a ranch dip, making for a balanced appetizer spread.

Feeling adventurous with variations? The possibilities are endless! Instead of provolone, try Swiss cheese for a more pronounced nutty flavor, or a Monterey Jack for extra meltiness. You could even introduce a touch of heat by adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your beef mixture, or by serving a chipotle mayo alongside the au jus. For a different textural element, consider adding a thin layer of caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms inside the roll-ups before rolling – these additions would complement the beef beautifully. If roast beef isn’t your preferred protein, you could easily experiment with thinly sliced deli turkey or even a shredded chicken, perhaps with a different complementary dipping sauce like a creamy pesto or a roasted red pepper aioli. And for those seeking a vegetarian option, consider filling them with sautéed portobello mushrooms, caramelized onions, and a robust, melty cheese like smoked gouda, served with a rich vegetable broth for dipping. You could also experiment with different sizes of tortillas; smaller ones for true bite-sized appetizers, or larger ones if you’re aiming for a more substantial main course. The beauty is in their adaptability!

Your Turn: Embrace the Roll-Up Revolution!

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give these
French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups a try this week. They are deceptively simple to prepare, requiring minimal fuss but delivering maximum flavor impact. Imagine the delighted faces of your family and friends as they bite into these savory parcels of deliciousness! I truly believe they’ll be an instant hit in your kitchen, becoming a go-to recipe for everything from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to elevate your snack and meal game with minimal effort and incredible results.
Don’t just bookmark this page – make these roll-ups!

Once you’ve experienced the magic, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Did you stick to the classic? Did you try any exciting variations? What did you serve them with? Please share your culinary adventures, your tips, and your honest feedback in the comments section below. Your insights and creativity are what make this cooking community so vibrant and inspiring. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!