Many of us are staring down the same problem after the holidays: what to do with the leftover prime rib. Reheating it straight is an easy solution, but it’s not that much more work to transform those tender slices into French dip sandwiches. Rich beef, crusty bread, melty cheese, and a savory au jus for dipping make this sandwich feel like more than just an afterthought. Follow our recipe and see just how easy it is to turn that leftover prime rib into French dip sandwiches perfect for lunch, dinner, or game day.
Recipe for French Dip with Leftover Prime Rib
Ingredients:
For the sandwiches:
- 1 to 1½ pounds leftover prime rib, thinly sliced
- 4–6 hoagie rolls or French rolls, split
- 4–6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for toasting)
For the au jus:
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup reserved prime rib drippings (or more beef broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (optional)
- Salt, to taste (often not needed if drippings are salty)
Directions:
1. Make the Au Jus
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the beef broth with any leftover prime rib drippings. Add the Worcestershire sauce, along with the garlic, herbs, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for 10–15 minutes to build flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Warm the Prime Rib
Add the sliced prime rib directly to the warm au jus for 30–60 seconds, until just warmed through.
3. Toast the Bread
Lightly butter the rolls if desired and toast them in the oven or on a skillet until just golden.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches
Pile warm prime rib onto each roll, top with cheese, and return to the oven for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese melts.
5. Serve and Dip
Serve immediately with small bowls of hot au jus on the side for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Don’t boil the meat: Keep the au jus at a simmer and don’t leave the prime rib in too long to avoid overcooking it.
- Slice cold: Prime rib is easiest to slice when it’s cold, so slice it before reheating.
- Add onions: Add a touch of sweetness and depth with sautéed or caramelized onions.
Give New Life to Leftovers with The Butcher Shop
Turning your leftover TBS holiday prime rib from into French dip sandwiches feels downright restaurant-worthy. Our meats and seafood are 100% natural and locally sourced for a difference you can taste. We also carry freshly baked loaves of bread so you can easily take your sandwiches to the next level. At The Butcher Shop, you always receive the highest quality products at prices that won’t break your budget. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.