French Dip
A rich, savory beef gravy with horseradish, perfect for dipping sandwiches or serving over cooked beef, offering bold flavors and a comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan, then stir in flour and minced onion.
- Add beef broth, prepared horseradish, and salt.
- Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Serve hot over beef or use as a dipping sauce for French Dip sandwiches.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth made from scratch or adding a splash of red wine to the sauce. If you don't have horseradish, try using Dijon mustard for a different kick. To thicken the sauce more, whisk in an additional tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with a bit of water. This sauce also complements other beef recipes well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sauce hot over thinly sliced roast beef on a crusty baguette for a classic French Dip sandwich. It pairs beautifully with crispy fries or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for other sandwiches or even as a flavorful addition to dishes like Grandma's Texas Bean Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the smooth texture. If it thickens too much, add a bit of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Dip contains roughly 416 calories, with 10g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of broth if needed to restore its consistency. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.
What can I serve with French Dip sandwiches?
French Dip sandwiches are delicious with a side of crispy fries, potato chips, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with a warm bowl of soup or pairing with Clogger Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Can I use a different type of broth?
Absolutely! While beef broth is traditional, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste of the sauce will vary slightly based on the broth you choose.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).