Name: Air Fryer French Dip
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups beef stock; 1 tablespoon sherry wine; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 sprig fresh thyme; 1½ pounds skirt steak, cut in half; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper; 4 hoagies; 4 tablespoons salted butter; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 4 cheese slices

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If you love a hearty sandwich filled with tender beef, melted cheese, and delicious dipping sauce, these Air Fryer French Dip Sandwiches are going to become a new favourite! Made with juicy skirt steak, toasted rolls, melted provolone cheese, and rich homemade au jus, they’re packed with flavour in every bite.

The air fryer makes this recipe quick and easy without needing to heat up the oven or use several pans. The skirt steak cooks quickly, the bread gets beautifully toasted, and the cheese melts into the warm beef for that classic French dip experience.

The best part is the homemade au jus. This savoury dipping sauce is made with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a few simple seasonings. Pour it into small bowls and dip your sandwich for an extra delicious bite.

These sandwiches are perfect for busy weeknight dinners, game-day meals, weekend lunches, or whenever you’re craving something comforting and satisfying. Serve them with French fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

What Is a French Dip Sandwich?

A French Dip Sandwich is a classic American sandwich traditionally made with thinly sliced roast beef served inside a French roll or baguette. It’s usually accompanied by a warm, savoury beef broth called au jus, which is served on the side for dipping.

Despite the name, the French Dip Sandwich is generally considered an American creation. It is commonly associated with Los Angeles, California, where two restaurants, Philippe the Original and Cole’s, are both linked to its early history.

The traditional version uses slow-roasted beef, but this air fryer recipe takes a quicker approach by using tender skirt steak.

The steak is seasoned, air fried until juicy, and layered into toasted sandwich rolls with melted provolone cheese. Each sandwich is served with a small bowl of warm beef au jus for dipping.

It’s a delicious combination of tender beef, crispy bread, melted cheese, and rich dipping sauce!

Ingredients

You only need a few simple ingredients to make these delicious air fryer French Dip Sandwiches.

For the sandwiches:

1 pound skirt steak: The star of the recipe. Skirt steak has a rich beefy flavour and cooks quickly in the air fryer. Slice it against the grain after cooking for the most tender results.
4 French rolls or hoagie rolls: Choose soft rolls with a slightly crusty exterior that can hold the steak and dipping sauce without falling apart.
4 slices provolone cheese: Adds a creamy, mild flavour and melts beautifully over the warm beef. Swiss cheese is another great option.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning coat the steak and encourages browning.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savoury garlic flavour.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Gives the beef extra depth.
½ teaspoon paprika: Adds colour and a mild smoky flavour.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavour of the steak.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little warmth.
1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional): Adds sweetness and a delicious savoury topping.

For the au jus dipping sauce:

2 cups beef broth: Creates the rich, savoury base for the dipping sauce. Use low-sodium broth if you want more control over the salt.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and a delicious savoury flavour.
1 teaspoon soy sauce: Adds extra umami. You can use low-sodium soy sauce.
1 clove garlic, minced: Gives the broth a lovely garlic flavour.
½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Seasons the sauce.

Additions and Substitutions

One of the best things about these French Dip Sandwiches is how easy they are to customise.

1. Cheese options

Provolone is a classic choice, but you can use Swiss, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or mild cheddar. For a stronger flavour, try Gruyère.

2. Different cuts of beef

If you don’t have skirt steak, you can use flank steak, sirloin, or thinly sliced ribeye. Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of the meat.

For a more traditional French dip sandwich, use thinly sliced leftover roast beef.

3. Add caramelised onions

Cook sliced onions in a little butter over medium-low heat until soft and golden. Add them to the sandwich for extra sweetness and flavour.

4. Add mushrooms

Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and butter, then layer them over the steak before adding the cheese.

5. Make it spicy

Add sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a little hot sauce to the steak for extra heat.

6. Use different bread

French rolls, hoagie rolls, baguettes, and ciabatta all work well. Choose bread that is sturdy enough to hold the juicy steak and dipping sauce.

7. Make the au jus richer

Add a small amount of butter to the warm beef broth for a richer finish. You can also use a little red wine in the sauce, allowing it to simmer and reduce before serving.

How to Make Air Fryer French Dip Sandwiches

These sandwiches are surprisingly easy to prepare. Cook the steak in the air fryer, warm the dipping sauce on the stovetop, then assemble everything with toasted rolls and melted cheese.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the skirt steak

Remove the skirt steak from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.

Trim away any large pieces of excess fat or tough membrane if necessary.

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Rub the steak with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides.

Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for approximately 10–15 minutes while you prepare the dipping sauce. Avoid leaving raw meat out for longer than 2 hours.

Step 2: Make the au jus dipping sauce

Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, dried thyme, and black pepper to a small saucepan.

Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Cook for approximately 8–10 minutes to allow the flavours to develop.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Reduce the heat to low to keep the au jus warm while you prepare the sandwiches.

Step 3: Preheat the air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 3–5 minutes if your model recommends preheating.

Make sure the basket is clean and dry before adding the steak.

Step 4: Air fry the skirt steak

Place the seasoned skirt steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If the steak is too large, cut it into sections that fit comfortably.

Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and your preferred doneness. Skirt steak is relatively thin, so check it early to avoid overcooking.

Use a food thermometer to check the thickest part. For food safety, whole cuts of beef should reach at least 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest. If you prefer your steak more well done, cook it to a higher temperature.

Step 5: Rest and slice the steak

Remove the steak from the air fryer and place it on a cutting board.

Allow it to rest for at least 3 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.

Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibres, making the steak easier to chew and more tender.

Step 6: Prepare the sandwich rolls

Slice the French rolls lengthwise, leaving one side attached if you prefer.

Place them cut-side up in the air fryer basket and toast at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 2–3 minutes.

Keep an eye on the bread so it doesn’t become too hard or overly browned.

Step 7: Assemble the French Dip Sandwiches

Divide the sliced skirt steak evenly between the toasted rolls.

Add caramelised onions or sautéed mushrooms if desired.

Place a slice of provolone cheese over the warm beef.

Return the assembled sandwiches to the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Check frequently to prevent the bread from over-toasting.

Step 8: Serve with au jus

Remove the sandwiches from the air fryer and place them on serving plates.

Pour the warm au jus into small individual dipping bowls.

Serve immediately while the bread is toasted, the cheese is melted, and the steak is juicy.

Dip each bite into the savoury beef broth and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Follow these simple tips to make sure your air fryer French Dip Sandwiches turn out delicious every time.

1. Choose the right steak

Skirt steak is an excellent choice because it has a rich beef flavour and cooks quickly. Look for a piece with an even thickness so it cooks more consistently.

2. Don’t skip the resting time

Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps retain its juices. Always rest it before slicing.

3. Slice against the grain

This is especially important with skirt steak. Look for the direction of the visible muscle fibres and slice across them rather than parallel to them.

4. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer

The steak needs space for hot air to circulate. If necessary, cook it in batches rather than stacking the pieces.

5. Check the steak early

Skirt steak is relatively thin and can cook quickly. Start checking its temperature before the estimated cooking time is finished.

6. Don’t overcook the bread

French rolls should be lightly toasted on the inside but still soft enough to bite into. A couple of minutes in the air fryer is usually enough.

7. Keep the au jus warm

The dipping sauce should be warm when served. Keep it over low heat while preparing the sandwiches, but avoid boiling it for too long because it may become too concentrated.

8. Don’t make the sandwiches too wet

The au jus is meant for dipping, not pouring over the bread. Keeping it on the side helps prevent the rolls from becoming soggy before serving.

9. Use freshly sliced beef

Slice the steak just before assembling the sandwiches. Thin slices make it easier to distribute the meat evenly throughout each roll.

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer French Dip Sandwiches are filling on their own, but pairing them with a delicious side dish makes the meal even better.

Here are some of my favourite serving ideas:

1. Air Fryer French Fries

Crispy homemade French fries are a classic side for French Dip Sandwiches. Serve them with ketchup, mayonnaise, or garlic sauce.

2. Onion Rings

Golden, crunchy onion rings add a delicious contrast to the tender steak and melted cheese.

3. Potato Wedges

Seasoned potato wedges are another great option. Try garlic, paprika, and rosemary for extra flavour.

4. Coleslaw

A fresh, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich beef and cheese.

5. Garden Salad

Serve with lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and a simple vinaigrette for a lighter side.

6. Roasted Vegetables

Air fryer carrots, broccoli, courgettes, or green beans make excellent vegetable sides.

7. Pickles

Dill pickles or pickled jalapeños add a tangy flavour that balances the richness of the sandwich.

8. Sweet Potato Fries

For something a little different, serve the sandwiches with crispy sweet potato fries.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you have leftover steak or au jus, don’t throw them away! Both can be used to make another delicious meal.

How to store leftover French Dip Sandwiches

If possible, store the steak, bread, cheese, and au jus separately.

Allow the cooked steak and dipping sauce to cool slightly, then refrigerate within 2 hours.

Place the steak and au jus in separate airtight containers and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below for 3–4 days.

Store leftover bread separately at room temperature if it is still fresh and has not been filled with meat or sauce.

Can I freeze the leftover steak?

Yes! Cooked skirt steak freezes well.

Allow it to cool, divide it into meal-sized portions, and place it in freezer-safe bags or containers.

Remove excess air, label with the date, and freeze for approximately 2–3 months for the best quality.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to reheat leftover steak

Place the sliced steak in an air-fryer-safe dish with a tablespoon or two of beef broth or au jus.

Cover securely with foil that cannot move into the heating element and reheat at 325°F (163°C) until the centre reaches 165°F (74°C).

Alternatively, warm the steak gently in a saucepan with a little au jus.

Can I make the sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prepare the au jus and season the steak ahead of time. Store the au jus in the refrigerator and keep the seasoned raw steak covered and refrigerated.

For the best texture, cook the steak and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for French Dip Sandwiches?

Traditional French Dip Sandwiches are usually made with thinly sliced roast beef. For this air fryer version, skirt steak is a great option because it has a rich flavour and cooks quickly.

Flank steak, sirloin, and ribeye are also suitable alternatives.

What is au jus?

Au jus is a French term meaning “with juice.” In this recipe, it refers to a savoury beef broth served alongside the sandwich for dipping.

It’s usually made with beef stock or broth, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.

How long does skirt steak take to cook in the air fryer?

Skirt steak generally takes approximately 8–12 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on its thickness and your preferred doneness.

Always use a meat thermometer and follow the recommended food-safety temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest, for whole cuts of beef.

What temperature should I cook skirt steak in the air fryer?

A temperature of 400°F (200°C) works well for skirt steak because it helps brown the outside while cooking the inside relatively quickly.

The exact time depends on the thickness of the steak and your air fryer.

How do I make skirt steak tender?

The most important tip is to slice the steak thinly against the grain after resting.

Avoid overcooking it, as skirt steak can become chewy when cooked too long. You can also marinate it beforehand with olive oil, garlic, and a little lemon juice for extra flavour.

Can I use leftover roast beef instead of skirt steak?

Absolutely! Leftover roast beef is an excellent choice and makes a more traditional French Dip Sandwich.

Simply slice the cooked beef thinly and warm it gently in the au jus before assembling your sandwiches.

What cheese is best for French Dip Sandwiches?

Provolone is a popular choice because it melts beautifully and has a mild flavour.

Swiss, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère are also delicious options.

Can I make French Dip Sandwiches without cheese?

Yes! Cheese is optional. The steak, toasted bread, and au jus are already full of flavour. Simply leave out the cheese if you prefer a traditional-style sandwich without it.

How do I prevent my sandwich from becoming soggy?

Toast the rolls lightly before adding the beef, and serve the au jus in a separate dipping bowl.

Avoid pouring the dipping sauce directly over the sandwich until you’re ready to eat.

Can I make the au jus ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the au jus up to 2–3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheat it gently in a saucepan until steaming hot before serving.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! French rolls, hoagie rolls, baguettes, and ciabatta are all excellent choices.

Choose bread that is sturdy enough to hold the beef without falling apart when dipped into the au jus.

What can I serve with French Dip Sandwiches?

Some delicious sides include French fries, onion rings, potato wedges, coleslaw, garden salad, roasted vegetables, and pickles.