French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are a fun twist on the classic French dip sandwich, wrapped up in soft tortillas and packed with tender roast beef and melty cheese. They’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside thanks to a flavorful dipping sauce that makes every bite extra tasty.
I love making these roll ups for busy weeknights or when friends are over. They come together quickly, and they’re always a hit because you get all the good flavors of a French dip sandwich without the mess of slicing a big hoagie. Plus, dunking them into that rich au jus dipping sauce is the best part—I could honestly eat the sauce straight up!
These roll ups are great for parties or even just a cozy night in. I usually serve them with a side of veggies or a simple salad to keep things balanced. They’re easy to share, easy to eat, and always bring a smile to the table. Whenever I make them, folks keep asking for the recipe, and I’m happy to share because they’re just that good.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Use large, soft tortillas to wrap the filling easily. If you prefer gluten-free, there are many good gluten-free tortilla options available. Corn tortillas won’t roll as well but can work if warmed gently.
Roast Beef: Leftover roast beef is perfect here for tender, flavorful filling. If you don’t have roast beef, thinly sliced deli roast beef works well too. For a twist, try shredded brisket or even thin steak strips.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives a mild creaminess. Provolone is a tasty alternative with a bit more tang. For a sharper flavor, you might try cheddar or Swiss, but keep the cheese melty and smooth.
Beef Au Jus: This is the flavor bomb for dipping. You can use store-bought au jus packets or make your own broth with beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of garlic. It adds juicy richness to every bite.
How Do You Get Crispy, Melty Roll Ups without Falling Apart?
Making these roll ups crispy and melty can be simple if you follow a few tips:
- Use plenty of cheese inside – it acts like glue holding everything together as it melts.
- Roll the tortillas tightly, so the filling doesn’t spill out during baking.
- Place them seam side down on the baking sheet to help them hold their shape.
- Brush the tops with melted butter before baking – this helps them turn golden and gives a nice crisp texture.
- Bake just long enough for the cheese to melt and the tortilla to crisp but not so long that they become hard or dry.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding the roll ups while they bake evenly and get crispy.
- Parchment paper – keeps the roll ups from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup easy.
- Basting brush – lets you spread melted butter evenly for a golden, crispy finish.
- Mixing bowl – handy if you want to mix your own au jus or toss leftover beef with seasonings.
- Sharp knife – useful for slicing the roll ups if you want to serve them as appetizers.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef for shredded chicken to change up the protein while keeping it tender.
- Try provolone or Swiss cheese for a different texture and slightly different flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions inside for extra depth and sweetness.
- Mix in some horseradish or Dijon mustard into the au jus for a tangy kick when dipping.
How to Make French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked, shredded roast beef (leftover or freshly prepared)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 2 cups beef au jus or beef broth (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 to 18 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need roughly 25 to 30 minutes to enjoy these delicious roll ups. It’s a quick way to bring a classic French dip flavor to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Fill the Tortillas:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle about one-third cup of shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla. Then, add approximately the same amount of shredded roast beef on top of the cheese, spreading it out but leaving a half-inch border along the edges so it rolls up easily.
2. Roll and Arrange:
Carefully roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape, making sure the filling stays inside. Place each rolled tortilla seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
3. Bake and Serve:
Brush the tops of the rolled tortillas with melted butter. This helps them get crispy and golden brown in the oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tortillas are crisp and the cheese inside has melted. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool a little. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch. Serve warm with hot beef au jus or broth for dipping. Dip each roll up before taking a bite to enjoy all those rich, savory flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Roast Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen roast beef, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight first. This will help it shred easily and heat evenly inside the roll ups.
Can I Make French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and roll them up ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate. When ready, brush with butter and bake as directed. This is perfect for easy entertaining or quick weeknight dinners.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave for a quick option, though the oven keeps them crispier.
What Can I Serve Instead of Beef Au Jus?
If you don’t have beef au jus, a savory beef broth or even a rich gravy can work well for dipping. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce and herbs to plain broth for extra flavor.
