French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are a fun twist on the classic French dip sandwich. They’re stuffed with tender roast beef, melty cheese, and a little bit of flavorful au jus for dipping. The tortillas make these roll ups easy to handle and perfect for sharing as a snack or appetizer.
I love making these roll ups when I want something easy to prepare but still packed with that yummy, comforting taste of a French dip sandwich. The best part is dipping each bite into the warm au jus sauce, which adds just the right amount of juiciness and flavor. I usually like to toast them just a bit so the cheese melts perfectly inside.
These tortilla roll ups are great for a casual get-together or even a quick lunch. I like to serve them with a side of crunchy pickles or simple veggies to keep it light and fresh. Plus, they’re always a hit because you get the classic French dip flavors without the mess of a big sandwich.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: They provide a soft, flexible wrap that crisps up nicely when grilled. If you want a gluten-free option, corn tortillas work but can be a bit more fragile.
Roast Beef: Using thinly sliced or shredded roast beef gives tender, flavorful bites. Leftover roast beef or deli-style also works fine here.
Cheese: Provolone or Swiss add a mild, melty texture that pairs well with beef. Cheddar or mozzarella can be tasty swaps if you prefer stronger or milder flavors.
Beef Au Jus: This dipping sauce adds rich, juicy flavor and brings everything together. If you don’t have au jus, a simple beef broth with a touch of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can work.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Yet Melty Rolled Tortilla?
Balancing a crispy outside with melted cheese inside is key. Here’s my simple approach:
- Roll the tortillas tightly to hold filling and prevent leaks.
- Warm your pan to medium heat before adding butter or oil so it sizzles gently.
- Cook the roll ups seam-side down first to seal them well.
- Flip carefully, cooking each side 2-3 minutes until golden and cheese melts.
- Don’t rush—moderate heat lets cheese melt before the tortilla burns.
With these steps, you’ll get a crispy wrap and gooey center every time, making dipping into au jus a delight.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet or frying pan – I like using a non-stick pan so the tortillas don’t stick and get nicely crispy.
- Tongs or spatula – makes flipping the roll ups easy and safe.
- Small saucepan – for warming the beef au jus to serve on the side.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing each roll up if desired and garnishing with parsley.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheeses – try pepper jack or havarti for a different melt and flavor.
- Veggies – add sautéed peppers, onions, or mushrooms inside before rolling for extra flavor and texture.
- Spices – sprinkle some garlic powder, black pepper, or a dash of horseradish for a kick.
- Protein swaps – use sliced turkey or ham instead of roast beef for a different twist.
How to Make French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked roast beef, shredded or thinly sliced
- 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- 1 cup beef au jus (for dipping)
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for grilling)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 6 minutes to cook, for a total of around 15-20 minutes. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a tasty snack or light meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Warm the Au Jus:
Pour the beef au jus into a small saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it’s warm. Keep it on low heat so it stays hot while you prepare the roll ups.
2. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Place one slice of cheese on each tortilla, then evenly spread about half a cup of shredded or sliced roast beef over the cheese. Roll each tortilla tightly to keep the filling inside.
3. Grill the Roll Ups:
Heat the butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the rolled tortillas seam side down on the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese inside has melted.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the roll ups from the skillet and slice them in half if you like. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with the warm beef au jus on the side for dipping.
Enjoy these delicious French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups as a fun, easy way to savor classic French dip flavors with a crispy twist!
Can I Use Frozen Roast Beef for These Roll Ups?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the roast beef completely in the fridge overnight before using. This helps keep the texture tender and prevents extra moisture from making the tortillas soggy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the roll ups and store them in the fridge for up to one day before grilling. Just cover tightly to keep them fresh. Grill and warm the au jus right before serving for the best taste.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to re-crisp the tortillas and melt the cheese again. Serve with warmed au jus.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Roll Ups?
Definitely! Sautéed onions, peppers, or mushrooms make great additions for extra flavor and texture. Just cook them first and add them with the beef before rolling up.