If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing, utterly delicious appetizer that’s packed with savory flavors and incredible comfort, you have to try these French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer Recipe. Imagine tender, seasoned roast beef wrapped in warm, soft tortillas with melty provolone cheese and sweet caramelized onions, all baked to golden perfection. Served alongside a rich, homemade au jus dipping sauce, these rollups offer a fun twist on the classic French dip sandwich that’s perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each adding its own magic—from the sweet depth of caramelized onions to the rich, flavorful au jus. Every component is essential to create that perfect balance of taste, texture, and irresistible aroma that makes these rollups truly unforgettable.
- 2 large yellow onions, peeled & thinly sliced: Caramelizing these brings out natural sweetness and an amazing softness.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Provides a luscious richness for cooking onions and brushing rollups.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps cook onions gently without burning.
- ½ tsp granulated sugar: Enhances the caramelization of onions.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances flavors in onions and broth.
- â…› tsp black pepper: Adds subtle warmth to the onions.
- 1 lb thinly sliced deli roast beef: The star protein delivering tender, savory bites.
- 8-10 large flour tortillas (10-inch diameter): Soft, pliable wraps that hold all fillings perfectly.
- 8-10 slices provolone cheese (or Swiss cheese): Melts smoothly and adds creamy savoriness.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional): For a creamy spread layering additional richness.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional): Adds a tangy kick when mixed with mayo.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings a complex, umami depth to the beef marinade and au jus.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses subtle savory notes to the beef.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Enhances onion flavor without extra chopping.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing): Creates a beautiful golden, crispy exterior.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness.
- 4 cups good quality beef broth (low sodium): Forms the base of the rich au jus dipping sauce.
- ½ cup beef consommé: Concentrated beef flavor that intensifies the broth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth to the au jus.
- ½ tsp dried thyme: Offers earthy herbal notes.
- ¼ tsp dried rosemary, crushed: Provides fragrant pine-like undertones.
- 1 bay leaf: Infuses a subtle savory complexity.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami layers in the au jus.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Gives a salty, savory backbone to the sauce.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Final seasoning touch for warmth.
- Salt to taste: To balance and enhance flavors perfectly.
- ½ tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water (optional for thickening): Creates a slightly thicker dipping sauce if you prefer.
How to Make French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Caramelized Onions
Start by thinly slicing those gorgeous yellow onions. In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt butter with olive oil over medium-low heat and add the onions along with sugar, salt, and pepper. The secret here is patience—low and slow cooking for 30 to 45 minutes (or up to an hour if you’re willing) turns onions into a deeply sweet, soft, golden treasure that forms the soul of these rollups. Set them aside once perfect.
Step 2: Make Au Jus Dipping Sauce
Next, bring the French Dip magic alive by simmering beef broth, consommé, garlic, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and black pepper in a saucepan. Allow it to gently reduce for 20 to 30 minutes so all those flavors meld into a deeply satisfying broth. If you want a thicker sauce, whisk in a cornstarch slurry and cook until luscious. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf and adjust salt as needed—you want this warm au jus ready for dunking!
Step 3: Assemble Rollups
Warm your tortillas briefly to make them soft and easy to roll. If you’re craving a creamy tang, whisk together mayo and Dijon mustard to spread on the tortillas before layering. Toss the roast beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper, then layer each tortilla with provolone cheese, the seasoned beef, and a generous helping of those caramelized onions. Leave a little border so rolling is neat and tidy.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Tightly roll each tortilla, making sure the tasty filling stays tucked inside. Place seam-side down, then using a sharp serrated knife, slice each roll into six to eight pinwheel pieces. This makes the perfect finger food bite size and looks incredibly inviting when arranged on a platter.
Step 5: Cook Rollups
Brush the tops and sides of the rollups with melted butter for that gorgeous crispness. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the tortillas turn golden and the cheese inside bubbles invitingly—about 12 to 18 minutes. If you love extra crunch, a short broil at the end is a fantastic trick but watch carefully. Alternatively, pan-frying them in a bit of butter or olive oil works beautifully if you want to skip the oven.
Step 6: Serve
Once hot and crispy, garnish with fresh parsley for a bright pop of color and herbaceous flavor. Arrange the rollups on a serving platter and bring out the warm au jus dipping sauce in small bowls. Encourage everyone to dip generously and savor every beefy, cheesy bite. This is the kind of appetizer that turns any occasion into a celebration!
How to Serve French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a natural choice, adding a splash of green and a mild, fresh herb flavor that balances the richness of the beef and cheese. For a fun twist, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning or a light dusting of smoked paprika to add color and an intriguing smoky note.
Side Dishes
These rollups pair wonderfully with crisp vegetable crudités or a refreshing slaw to cut through their richness. You can also serve alongside kettle-cooked chips or a simple mixed greens salad dressed with tangy vinaigrette for a well-rounded appetizer experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the rollups on a rustic wooden board with individual dipping bowls for the au jus to create an inviting sharing platter. For parties, a tiered serving tray allows guests easy access and elevates the presentation. Wrapped with a small fresh herb sprig around each pinwheel adds charm and makes handling neat and easy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the rollups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, separate the rollups from the au jus until ready to enjoy again.
Freezing
These rollups freeze beautifully. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or container and store for up to 2 months. This makes them super convenient for quick appetizers anytime.
Reheating
For best results, reheat frozen or refrigerated rollups in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp again, about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve their crunch. Reheat the au jus separately on the stove until steamy, ready for dunking.
FAQs
Can I use any other cheese instead of provolone?
Absolutely! Swiss is a great alternative, offering a slightly nuttier flavor. You can also try mozzarella for a milder, stretchy melt or even cheddar if you want a bit more punch, though it changes the classic profile slightly.
Is it necessary to caramelize the onions?
While you could skip caramelizing, it’s highly recommended because the sweet, tender onions add a beautiful depth and contrast against the savory beef and cheese. It’s worth the extra time for the flavor payoff.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas and make sure to use tamari instead of soy sauce in the au jus. Check all condiments like Worcestershire sauce for gluten as well.
How spicy is this French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer Recipe?
This recipe is mild and savory, perfect for all palates. You can always add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you want to up the heat.
Can I prepare the au jus ahead of time?
You sure can! The au jus can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Reheat gently before serving. The flavors often deepen even more after sitting overnight.
Final Thoughts
French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug served on a platter. Its blend of savory beef, melty cheese, and sweet onions dipped in rich au jus makes every bite irresistible. Whether for a casual get-together or a special occasion, these rollups will quickly become a favorite. I can’t wait for you to try them—and watch your guests fall in love too!
Print
French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
French Dip Tortilla Rollups are an easy and flavorful beefy appetizer featuring tender roast beef, caramelized onions, and melted provolone cheese rolled inside warm flour tortillas. Served with a rich homemade au jus dipping sauce, these rollups are crispy on the outside and juicy inside, perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Caramelized Onions
- 2 large yellow onions, peeled & thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- â…› tsp black pepper
Rollup Filling
- 1 lb thinly sliced deli roast beef
- 8–10 large flour tortillas (10-inch diameter)
- 8–10 slices provolone cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Butter for Brushing
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Au Jus Dipping Sauce
- 4 cups good quality beef broth (low sodium)
- ½ cup beef consommé
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ½ tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water (optional for thickening)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Caramelized Onions: Thinly slice 2 large yellow onions. In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions, ½ teaspoon granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-45 minutes (or up to an hour) until deeply caramelized, soft, and sweet. Set aside.
- Make Au Jus Dipping Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups beef broth, ½ cup beef consommé, 2 minced garlic cloves, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ¼ teaspoon crushed dried rosemary, 1 bay leaf, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes to meld flavors and reduce slightly. For optional thickening, whisk in the cornstarch slurry (½ teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and cook 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust salt as needed. Keep warm.
- Assemble Rollups: Briefly warm 8-10 large flour tortillas to make them pliable. If desired, whisk together ¼ cup mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for a creamy spread. In a separate bowl, toss 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef with 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Spread the optional mayo-Dijon mixture evenly on each tortilla. Layer one slice of provolone cheese, a generous portion of seasoned roast beef, and a good amount of the caramelized onions on each tortilla, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Roll and Slice: Tightly roll each tortilla from one end, tucking in the filling as you go. Place seam-side down to seal. Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice each rolled tortilla into 6-8 pinwheels about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Arrange sliced rollups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cook Rollups: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and, using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops and sides of each rollup. Bake for 12-18 minutes or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly. For extra crispness, broil for 1-2 minutes watching carefully to prevent burning. Alternatively, pan-fry the rollups in a large skillet with olive oil or butter for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Arrange hot rollups on a serving platter and serve immediately with warm au jus dipping sauce in individual or communal bowls. Encourage guests to dip generously into the au jus for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- For gluten-free options, substitute the flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- The mayonnaise and Dijon mustard spread is optional but adds creamy tanginess that complements the beef.
- Caramelizing onions slowly brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the flavor of the rollups.
- Adjust seasoning in the au jus according to your salt preference; low sodium broth is recommended.
- Rollups can be made ahead and reheated gently in the oven before serving.
