These French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups turn the classic French dip sandwich into crispy, handheld wraps that my family requests at least twice a month. I came up with this shortcut version after burning my fingers one too many times trying to dip traditional French dip sandwiches into au jus while wrangling two kids at the dinner table.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
I keep these ingredients stocked because this recipe rescues me during busy weeks. The secret is buying roast beef sliced paper-thin at the deli counter (ask them to slice it on setting 1 or 2) so the tortillas roll without tearing. Fresh tortillas make a huge difference too.
- 4 large flour tortillas (12-inch burrito-sized)
- 4 slices provolone cheese (about 4 ounces) – I recommend asking for deli-sliced provolone for even melting
- 1/2 lb deli sliced roast beef (sliced as thin as possible)
- 3/4 cup French fried onions – My go-to brand is French’s Original Crispy Fried Onions found near canned vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef consommé – In my experience, consommé gives much deeper flavor than regular beef broth
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce – I usually use low-sodium to control salt levels
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend getting all your ingredients laid out before starting because this recipe moves quickly once you begin rolling. Work efficiently and you’ll have dinner ready in 25 minutes.
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F. If your tortillas feel stiff or cold from the fridge, microwave them for 10-15 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel to make them pliable and prevent cracking.
Step 2: Lay your 4 tortillas flat on a clean work surface. Tear each provolone slice into 4-5 smaller pieces and distribute evenly across each tortilla, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. This border is crucial for sealing.
Step 3: Layer the roast beef evenly over the cheese, using about 2 ounces per tortilla. If your slices are large, fold them to fit. Sprinkle the French fried onions over the beef, using about 3 tablespoons per tortilla. Don’t overload or they won’t seal properly.
Step 4: Working with one tortilla at a time, fold both left and right sides inward about 1 inch, then roll tightly from the bottom edge like a burrito. Brush a small amount of olive oil on the final seam edge to seal it closed, then place seam side down on an ungreased baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas. The tighter you roll, the better they’ll hold together.
Step 5: Brush the remaining olive oil over the tops of all four roll ups. This creates that golden, crispy exterior.
Step 6: Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Watch them during the last 2 minutes to prevent over-browning. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden and you can see slight browning on top.
Step 7: While the roll ups bake (or even while you’re assembling them), combine beef consommé, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through and aromatic. This makes about 1.5 cups of au jus.
Step 8: Remove roll ups from oven and let rest for 2 minutes (this prevents filling from spilling when you cut them). Slice each roll up in half diagonally and serve immediately with warm au jus for dipping.
Perfect Pairings for French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
These roll ups are satisfying on their own, but the right sides turn them into a complete meal that feels special enough for weekend dinners yet quick enough for weeknights.
Crispy Oven Fries: The classic pairing works perfectly here. Try my Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage recipe made without the sausage for a crispy potato side that complements the beefy flavors beautifully.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds nutrients. The cool, crisp lettuce balances the warm, savory roll ups and helps you feel less heavy after eating.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy texture and tangy dressing provide excellent contrast. I love how the acidity refreshes your palate between bites of these cheesy, meaty roll ups.
Roasted Vegetables: My Chicken with Mixed Vegetable Stir Fry technique (minus the chicken) works great here. Caramelized veggies add sweetness and nutrition while their roasted edges echo the crispy tortilla texture.
Dill Pickle Spears: Classic deli-style pickles add brightness and tang that cuts through the rich cheese and beef. Plus, they give you that authentic sandwich shop experience at home.
Hearty Soup: For colder nights, serve alongside my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup for a comfort food combo that satisfies completely.
Keeping It Fresh
These French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups deliver the best texture when served immediately while the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the texture won’t be quite as crispy.
For reheating, skip the microwave which makes them soggy. I recommend using a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to restore some crispiness to the tortilla. The au jus can be stored separately in a sealed container for up to 4 days and reheated on the stovetop.
If you want to prep ahead, assemble the roll ups up to 6 hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven quality. The au jus can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated when needed, which cuts down your active dinner prep time significantly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Swiss cheese is traditional for French dip sandwiches and melts beautifully. Mozzarella works well too, though it has a milder flavor. Avoid harder cheeses like cheddar that don’t melt as smoothly.
What if I don’t have beef consommé?
You can substitute regular beef broth, but add an extra teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce and a splash of soy sauce to boost the depth of flavor. The au jus won’t be quite as rich, but it will still taste good.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Brush with oil first for best crispy results. This method works great and saves a few minutes of cooking time.
French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. If tortillas are stiff, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel to make them pliable.
- Lay the 4 tortillas on a counter or work surface. Tear each provolone slice into 4-5 smaller pieces and distribute evenly over each tortilla, leaving about a 1-inch border around edges.
- Place the deli roast beef evenly over the cheese (about 2 ounces per tortilla), then sprinkle the French fried onions over the roast beef (about 3 tablespoons per tortilla).
- Working with one tortilla at a time, fold both left and right sides inward about 1 inch, then tightly roll from the bottom edge like a burrito. Brush a small amount of olive oil on the final seam edge to seal it closed, and place seam side down on an ungreased baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
- Brush the remaining olive oil over the tops of all roll ups.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Watch during the last 2 minutes to prevent over-browning.
- While the roll ups are baking, combine the beef consommé, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, onion powder and garlic powder in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and aromatic.
- Remove roll ups from oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Cut each roll up in half diagonally and serve immediately with warm au jus for dipping.
Notes
