
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¾ cup buttermilk
For the Filling:
- 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss or provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional for a tangy kick)
For the Au Jus Dip:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Melted butter brushed over biscuits
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1 – Make the Biscuit Dough
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the buttermilk gradually, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 2 – Shape the Biscuits
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
- Cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on your preference.
- Place half of the cut biscuits on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3 – Assemble the French Dip Biscuits
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each biscuit base if using.
- Layer roast beef evenly over each biscuit, then top with shredded cheese.
- Cover each with the remaining biscuit pieces, gently pressing the edges to seal.
Step 4 – Bake to Golden Perfection
- Brush the tops of the biscuits with a little melted butter for extra browning.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the biscuits are puffed and golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
- While baking, prepare the au jus by combining beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Heat until warmed through.
Step 5 – Serve Hot
- Remove the baked French dip biscuits from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve with the warm au jus for dipping. Each bite of biscuit stuffed with beef and cheese dipped in the savory broth is pure bliss.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Biscuits
- Cold butter is key: This ensures a flaky, tender biscuit that rises beautifully.
- Thinly slice your roast beef: This prevents the biscuits from being too bulky and ensures every bite has flavor.
- Make ahead: Assemble the biscuits in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
- Cheese variation: Swiss, provolone, or even sharp cheddar works wonderfully for a different flavor profile.
Why This Recipe Works
The Baked French Dip Biscuit is a brilliant twist on a classic sandwich. The biscuit provides a buttery, fluffy vehicle for the juicy roast beef and melted cheese, while the au jus adds the signature French dip flavor. It’s a satisfying combination of textures and tastes: crispy edges, soft layers, savory meat, gooey cheese, and a rich, flavorful broth.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, these biscuits turn ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.
If you want, I can also create a shortcut version for busy cooks, showing how to make these French dip biscuits in under 30 minutes without sacrificing flavor. Do you want me to do that?