What to Serve with French Dip Sandwiches: 26+ Side Dishes
Whenever I invite friends over, I love making a French Dip sandwich with au jus. The warm broth, tender beef, and crusty roll create a comforting meal.
But sometimes, you might wonder what to serve with French dip sandwiches if you want variety.
That’s a great question! I love exploring easy side options, from crispy favorites to fresh salads. It’s all about balance. You want flavors that match that savory beef.
Join me in discovering the best side dishes for your sandwich that make each bite extra satisfying.
What Is A French Dip Sandwich?
Tender beef nestled in a crusty French roll makes this sandwich a classic. Historians trace its roots to early 20th-century Los Angeles. The thinly sliced meat gets dipped into savory au jus. It offers pure comfort.
What to Serve with French Dip Sandwiches?
You can pair these hearty sandwiches with crunchy, creamy, or fresh sides. Gather potato favorites, protein options, crisp salads, tangy slaws, rich soups, veggies, or cheesy comforts. Flex your creativity.
Potato Sides
Potatoes bring a bite to your meal. Whether you want crispy edges or soft centers, these sides satisfy. They’re some of the best side offerings.
- French Fries: Long, golden strips add an iconic crunch to your meal. Sprinkle salt and pepper for classic flavor, or drizzle tangy extras. They’re quick and pair beautifully with slow cooker sandwiches.
- Homemade Potato Chips: Thinly sliced spuds turn into a crispy delight. Fry or bake until golden, then season with your favorite sprinkle. Everyone enjoys these crunchy bites that elevate your French dip recipe.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Experience a touch of sweetness alongside tender beef. Dip these sticks in tangy sauce if you like extra zest. They’re easy to make and bring healthy vibes to your plate.
- Roasted Potatoes: Cubed pieces soak up savory herbs in the oven. Light crisping on the outside balances softness within. Serve them warm for a simple side dish next to juicy roast beef.
- Potato Salad: Cool chunks mixed with mayo or tangy dressing offer a refreshing break from warm sandwiches. Carrot shreds bring color, while onion adds zing. It’s an easy side dish for gatherings.
- Tater Tots: Bite-sized morsels bring a playful crunch to your table. Kids and adults love grabbing handfuls of these crispy bites. Together, they create a fun match with healthy French dip sandwiches.
Flavorful Proteins
Add bold depth to your plate with savory extras. These dishes give your meal a powerful boost. Pair them when you truly crave extra protein.
- Chicken Wings: Fried or baked pieces complement tender beef on a toasted hoagie. Brush them with tangy sauce or keep them simple. They’re a fun addition that keeps everyone grabbing more bites.
- Crab Cakes: Light, flaky rounds contrast nicely with your hearty sandwich. A quick sear brings out sweet seafood notes. Enjoy them alongside an easy recipe, adding variety to your table without fuss.
- Chicken Marsala: Tender chicken bathed in a mushroom sauce creates a delicious sidekick to your main dish. The savory gravy and sweet wine notes bring new flavor layers to your dinner spread.
Easy Salads
Crisp greens and fruity mixes freshen each bite. A salad dish can balance rich meat flavors. Try these ideas to brighten what you’re already serving.
- Caesar Salad: Gentle romaine leaves get coated in creamy dressing for a simple salad. Croutons add crunch, and a sprinkle of cheese tops it off. Everyone enjoys this classic with robust sandwiches.
- Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad: Chilled chunks of freshness bring color and moisture to your plate. A light drizzle of dressing ties it together. You’ll love how these flavors pop beside your flavorful dipping sauce.
- Crunchy Pickled Salad: Combining cucumbers, cabbage, radish, and fresh dill gives a tangy punch. Every forkful lights up your taste buds with bright flavors. Keep it quick and easy, so mealtime stays fun.
- Strawberry Spinach Salad: Sweet berries meet leafy greens in this bowl. Drizzle a poppy seed vinaigrette for a zingy finish. This side dish recipe pairs well with your sandwich.
- Fruit Salad: Melon, grapes, and berries swirl together in a rainbow of sweetness. Squeeze some citrus juice for a bright spark. This quick bowl adds a refreshing taste to your cozy meal.
Slaws
Shredded veggies mixed with a tangy dressing keep your meal crunchy and fresh. These quick blends provide a very simple contrast to more savory bites.
- Coleslaw: Finely sliced cabbage tossed with creamy dressing delivers a classic slaw. Add carrot for color and gentle sweetness. It stays crisp and pairs perfectly with your favorite French dip recipe.
- Easy Napa Cabbage Slaw: Light, leafy shreds bring a delicate crunch. A very mild dressing highlights their fresh taste. This version travels well, so it’s great for potlucks or quick lunches alongside leftover sandwiches.
- Broccoli Slaw: Updated crunch from shredded stems makes this option stand out. Mix in a tangy sauce to add brightness. It’s a unique easy side that contrasts meaty bites with bold texture.
- Jicama Apple Slaw: Crisp jicama and sweet apple join forces for a cool treat. A light dressing keeps it fresh without overpowering. Enjoy a tangy crunch that pairs well with your toasty sandwich.
Hearty Soups
Cozy bowls soothe the soul and hug your senses. Pair them with beef on crusty bread for a filling match that warms every bite.
- Tomato Soup: Velvety spoonfuls balance the savory elements of your sandwich. A swirl of cream on top adds a gentle touch. It’s a comforting partner on a rainy day night.
- Bean Soup: Hearty beans supply extra protein to keep you satisfied. Simmer them with spices for a warm delight. Each sip complements your French dip sandwich with au jus and grilled onions.
- Cauliflower Soup: Pureed florets lend a creamy feel without heavy cream. This bowl delivers a mild taste that won’t overshadow your main course.
- French Onion Soup: Savor onions cooked until golden and sweet, then topped with gooey cheese. Each spoonful adds warmth to your table. A perfect side dish to make a simple evening feel magical.
Simple Vegetable Sides
Veggies can add color, crunch, or softness next to your main. Switch up methods, from roasting to air frying, for bright flavors and easy variety.
- Garlic Green Beans: Long spears sizzle with fragrant garlic, adding a very savory spark to your meal. A quick sauté keeps them crisp. This side stands out without distracting from the star sandwich.
- Caramelized Onions: Slow-cooked slices turn golden brown and develop sweetness. They’re easy to make and heighten every bite of tender beef. Spoon them over your sandwich for an extra layer of flavor.
- Dill Pickles: Crunchy spears or round chips deliver a tang that cuts through rich meat. A simple jar from the store works fine. Pop them beside your sandwich for a zesty surprise.
- Air Fryer Onion Rings: Light breading achieves a crispy air fryer finish. Less grease keeps them guilt-free, and their pleasant crunch matches perfectly. These rings add fun to each bite of your comforting meal.
- Oven Roasted Broccoli: Florets turn crisp at the edges while staying tender inside. A sprinkle of salt and pepper ups the flavor. This approach offers a healthy twist that really complements your meal.
- Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash: Slice these veggies and let hot air do the work. A thin coat of oil and simple seasonings create quick and easy side success. They deliver a tender, flavorful finish.
Creamy and Cheesy Sides
Melted goodness can turn an ordinary dinner into something special. Cheesy additions spark smiles. Enjoy these comforting treats that offer another level of satisfying flavor.
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy noodles coated in cheese sauce bring old-school comfort. Bake for bubbly goodness on top, or stir on the stovetop. Either way, it matches your beef on a toasted hoagie.
- Cheese Dip: In my book, it’s a real winner! You can make this cheesy dip easily enough with only a few simple ingredients, which makes it great for dipping your chips, veggies, or even sandwiches.
- Nachos: Crunchy tortilla layers smothered in cheese, beans, or chili create a fun table feature. Everyone can customize their portion. This shared snack keeps spirits high while you enjoy your sandwich.
- Creamy Pasta Salad: Tender noodles tossed in a smooth sauce with chopped veggies deliver very cool relief. Easy to make, it waits patiently in the fridge. This quick dish fits any casual gathering.
- Cheese Curds: Little bites of squeaky dairy goodness brighten your plate. A quick fry or air fryer frozen batch yields crispy edges. Dip them in your favorite sauce for true sheer delight.
Final Thoughts
I’ve always loved exploring side dishes for French dip sandwiches, especially when I host family gatherings.
These options create a delightful range of textures and flavors that bring folks together around the table.
Cooking should feel fun, not stressful, so pick your favorites and adapt freely. If you’re feeling adventurous, test a new combo and see how it brightens your meal.
Every bite counts toward a relaxed atmosphere and happy conversation. That’s the beauty of homemade goodness: you get to connect, share, and savor real moments. Keep the joy alive!
