French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups: A Deliciously Easy Appetizer
French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups offer a modern twist on the classic French dip sandwich. By transforming this beloved dish into bite-sized appetizers, you get the perfect combination of tender roast beef, melty cheese, and savory dipping sauce—wrapped up in a soft tortilla. These roll-ups are an ideal choice for parties, game days, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a quick and flavorful snack.
The best part about this recipe is its simplicity. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have these tasty treats ready in no time. Whether you’re preparing for a large gathering or just making a quick meal, French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are sure to be a hit with everyone.
For more appetizer ideas, try Crispy Parmesan Garlic Tortilla Chips or Mini Caprese Skewers.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
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French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups Recipe
- Total Time: 15-20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 16 roll-ups) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
French Dip Tortilla Roll-Ups are a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic French dip sandwich. These roll-ups feature thinly sliced roast beef, melted cheese, and a savory au jus dip, all rolled up in a soft tortilla. Perfect for parties, game day, or an easy lunch, these roll-ups deliver all the delicious flavors of a French dip sandwich in a convenient and shareable form. Served with a side of warm au jus for dipping, they make for a savory, satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients
For the Roll Ups:
- 4 large flour tortillas (whole wheat tortillas or gluten-free tortillas work as well)
- 8 oz thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style or freshly roasted)
- 4 oz provolone cheese, sliced (Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese are great alternatives)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or vegan mayo if dairy-free)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Prepare the Au Jus Dip:
- In a small saucepan, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Keep the au jus warm on the stovetop while you prepare the roll-ups.
Assemble the Tortilla Roll-Ups:
- Lay out the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface.
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard and mayonnaise (if using) on each tortilla. This step is optional, but it adds an extra layer of flavor to the roll-ups.
- Place a slice of provolone cheese on each tortilla.
- Layer the sliced roast beef evenly on top of the cheese.
- If using onions, sprinkle them over the roast beef.
Roll Up the Tortillas:
- Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly, securing the filling inside.
- Slice each tortilla roll into 1-1.5 inch pieces to create bite-sized roll-ups.
Toast the Roll-Ups:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the skillet and toast them for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- You can also brush the outside of the roll-ups with butter before toasting for extra crispiness.
Serve:
- Arrange the French dip tortilla roll-ups on a serving platter. Serve them warm with a small bowl of the prepared au jus dip for dipping.
Notes
- You can make the roll-ups ahead of time! Simply assemble the tortillas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to toast and serve. This is perfect for meal prep or parties.
- If you like your roll-ups extra cheesy, add an additional slice of cheese to each tortilla.
- For a lighter version, you can swap out the roast beef for deli turkey or chicken, and use a lower-fat cheese.
- You can add some pickles or pepperoncini inside the roll-ups for extra tang and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-10 minutes (for toasting)
- Category: Appetizer / Snack / Main Dish
- Method: Toasting / Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 roll-ups per person (depending on size)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups Recipe
Instructions
- Prepare the Roll Ups:
- Begin by laying the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface like a cutting board or countertop.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well blended. Spread a thin layer of this sauce mixture evenly over the surface of each tortilla, making sure it covers the entire tortilla.
- Evenly layer the thinly sliced roast beef over the sauce. Depending on your preference, you can fold the beef in half to make it more compact or arrange it flat.
- Next, place one slice of provolone cheese on top of the beef. You can also use shredded cheese if you prefer more melted cheese in your roll-ups.
- Carefully roll up each tortilla, making sure the filling stays securely inside as you roll. Tightly roll each tortilla from one edge to the other. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to cut each tortilla into 1-inch slices. This creates the roll-up pieces.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Stir to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can adjust the seasoning by adding more soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce if you prefer a saltier flavor. Remove the pan from the heat once the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve:
- Arrange the French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups on a serving platter, stacking them up neatly. If you’d like to add a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for garnish.
- Serve the roll-ups with the warm dipping sauce on the side. You can drizzle a bit of sauce over the roll-ups for added flavor or let your guests dip their roll-ups as they please.
Advanced Techniques
Want to take your French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups to the next level? Here are some advanced techniques to try:
1. Use Different Meats
While thinly sliced roast beef is traditional for French dip sandwiches, you can switch things up by using other types of deli meats. Try:
- Pastrami: For a slightly smoky flavor.
- Turkey or Chicken: A lighter option for those who prefer poultry.
- Corned Beef: For a more robust flavor that pairs well with the tangy mustard sauce.
2. Toast the Tortillas
For extra flavor and texture, lightly toast the tortillas before assembling the roll-ups. You can do this in a dry skillet or oven for a few minutes until the tortillas are golden and crispy. Toasting will add a nice crunch to the otherwise soft tortilla, enhancing the texture of each bite.
3. Add a Cheese Blend
If you love cheese, consider using a blend of cheeses to add complexity to the flavor profile of your roll-ups. Try mixing provolone with Swiss cheese, cheddar, or even mozzarella. This blend will melt beautifully and create a gooey, flavorful center.
4. Make Homemade Au Jus
For a truly authentic French dip experience, consider making your own au jus from scratch. To do this, simmer beef bones or use beef stock along with aromatics such as onions, carrots, and garlic. Add a bit of balsamic vinegar or red wine to enhance the richness of the sauce. This homemade au jus will elevate the dipping experience to new heights.
5. Add Fresh Vegetables for Extra Crunch
You can add extra crunch and nutrition by incorporating vegetables such as thinly sliced bell peppers, onions, or even lettuce into your roll-ups. These vegetables will add freshness to the flavor and provide a balance to the richness of the beef and cheese.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are a great make-ahead dish. Here’s how to store and maintain them:
Storage
- Refrigeration: These roll-ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to separate the dipping sauce from the roll-ups to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the roll-ups, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the roll-ups to a freezer-safe container or bag. You can freeze them for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave: Place the roll-ups on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds, or until warm. To prevent them from drying out, cover with a damp paper towel before microwaving.
- Oven: For a crispier texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the roll-ups for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can even place them under the broiler for a minute to get a golden finish.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Make these French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups work for different dietary needs with the following substitutions:
1. Gluten-Free
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas. Many stores carry gluten-free tortilla options, so you can find one that works for your dietary preferences. Also, make sure to choose a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and check the Worcestershire sauce for gluten if you’re very sensitive.
2. Low-Carb or Keto
For a keto-friendly option, swap the flour tortillas for low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps. Many health food stores sell low-carb tortilla options that are perfect for a keto diet. You can also reduce the amount of sauce or use a sugar-free version of Worcestershire sauce to lower the carb count.
3. Vegetarian Version
For vegetarians or those looking to avoid meat, consider using plant-based proteins. You can substitute the roast beef with thinly sliced portobello mushrooms, tempeh, or seitan. Season the veggie substitute with soy sauce, garlic, and a bit of liquid smoke to mimic the savory flavor of the beef. Additionally, use a dairy-free cheese to keep the dish fully plant-based.
FAQs About The Recipe
Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups a day ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven. This makes them perfect for meal prepping or party planning.
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone is the most traditional cheese for this recipe, you can use other cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend. For extra flavor, try adding some blue cheese or pepper jack if you like a little spice.
What if I don’t have beef broth for the dip?
If you don’t have beef broth, you can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter dip. Alternatively, you can use chicken broth if you’re okay with a slightly different flavor profile. Some people even use just water mixed with seasonings, though beef broth is recommended for its depth of flavor.
Can I make this dish without Worcestershire sauce?
Yes, you can omit Worcestershire sauce if you prefer. If you still want to maintain the umami flavor, you can substitute with soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or a splash of hot sauce for an added kick.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are an incredibly versatile, easy-to-make appetizer that captures the classic flavors of a French dip sandwich in a fun, bite-sized form. Whether you’re serving them at a party, preparing a quick snack for yourself, or looking for something new to bring to a potluck, these roll-ups will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
The best part about these roll-ups is how customizable they are. Feel free to experiment with different meats, cheeses, and sauces to make them your own. You can also adapt the recipe to meet various dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone at your table can enjoy them.
So next time you’re looking for a quick and delicious snack or appetizer, reach for these French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups and prepare for rave reviews!