If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing, look no further than the French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer! Recipe. These delightful bite-sized rollups combine tender, seasoned roast beef, sweet caramelized onions, and melty provolone cheese wrapped inside soft flour tortillas. Paired with a rich, homemade au jus dipping sauce, this dish turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable party starter or game day treat. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your entertaining arsenal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here is thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the sweetness of caramelized onions to the savory richness of roast beef and the creamy cheese melt, each element is essential for crafting these irresistible rollups.
- Yellow onions: Thinly sliced and slowly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and depth.
- Unsalted butter: Used both for cooking the onions and brushing the rollups for a golden, crispy finish.
- Olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps in caramelizing onions evenly.
- Granulated sugar: A small touch to boost the caramelization process without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper: For essential seasoning throughout the dish, enhancing every bite.
- Thinly sliced deli roast beef: The hearty, tender centerpiece that makes these rollups so beefy and satisfying.
- Large flour tortillas (10-inch diameter): Soft and pliable to wrap all the flavors snugly inside.
- Provolone cheese (or Swiss): Melts beautifully, adding creamy texture and mild flavor.
- Mayonnaise and Dijon mustard (optional): Whipped into a simple spread adding a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder: Seasonings that elevate the beef with layers of savory complexity.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness at the end.
- Beef broth and beef consommé: Combine to form the robust, flavorful au jus dipping sauce.
- Garlic, dried thyme, crushed rosemary, bay leaf: Aromatics that infuse the au jus with a fragrant herbal note.
- Soy sauce (or tamari): Adds umami depth and a touch of richness to the dipping sauce.
- Cornstarch slurry (optional): For thickening the au jus if you prefer a slightly more substantial dip.
How to Make French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer! Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Caramelized Onions
Begin by thinly slicing two large yellow onions. In a heavy-bottomed pan, gently melt unsalted butter with olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onions along with a pinch of sugar, salt, and black pepper. Slowly cook the onions for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply caramelized, soft, and sweet. This step is a total game changer since those sweet onions bring incredible flavor depth to your rollups.
Step 2: Make Au Jus Dipping Sauce
Next up, the soul of the French dip experience: the au jus. In a saucepan, combine beef broth, beef consommé, minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, a bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it reduce uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing all those flavors to marry beautifully. If you like your sauce thicker, stir in a cornstarch slurry and cook until slightly thickened. Remove the bay leaf before serving. This au jus is what your rollups will soak up for that irresistible dipping moment.
Step 3: Assemble Rollups
Warm your tortillas just enough to make them pliable, which makes rolling easier and prevents cracking. If you like, mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard for a creamy spread that adds a subtle tang. Toss the roast beef with Worcestershire, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to season it perfectly. Spread the mayo-Dijon mixture on each tortilla, then layer with a slice of provolone cheese, a generous helping of the seasoned beef, and plenty of those luscious caramelized onions, leaving a small border so nothing escapes when you roll.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Now, roll each tortilla tightly from one end, tucking the filling in as you go. Place the seam side down to keep them secure. Grab a sharp serrated knife and slice each roll into 6 to 8 pinwheels, about an inch to an inch and a half thick. Arrange these beauties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prepare for their golden transformation.
Step 5: Cook Rollups
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops and sides of each rollup with melted butter for a gorgeous gold and crisp texture. Bake for 12 to 18 minutes until the tortillas are irresistibly crispy and the cheese is bubbling underneath. For a quick extra crunch, broil for 1 to 2 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning. Alternatively, if you prefer, pan-fry them with a little olive oil and butter for 2 to 3 minutes per side until perfectly golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the rollups with freshly chopped parsley for a lively color contrast. Arrange them on a platter while still warm, alongside individual or communal bowls of the hot au jus dipping sauce. Encourage your guests to dip those pinwheels generously — it’s the best way to savor every rich, beefy bite of this appetizer.
How to Serve French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer! Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a beautiful green touch but also brightens the rich flavors. For an extra special touch, a light drizzle of truffle oil or a dusting of smoked paprika can add exciting layers of aroma and complexity.
Side Dishes
These rollups pair wonderfully with light sides such as a crisp garden salad or crunchy vegetable sticks to balance out their richness. Simple kettle-cooked potato chips or a tangy coleslaw also make great accompaniments, enhancing the convivial vibe of sharing finger foods.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the sliced rollups on a large wooden board with small bowls of au jus spaced around for communal dipping. You can also thread them onto skewers for neat individual servings or arrange them around a bowl of horseradish cream for extra zing. The visual appeal of bite-sized pinwheels is perfect for festive gatherings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover rollups in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store the au jus separately in a small jar or container to keep everything fresh and ready for reheating.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the assembled, uncooked rollups in a single layer on a baking sheet. After they’re firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing after baking to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, bake frozen rollups at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Reheat leftover au jus gently on the stovetop. Avoid microwave reheating if possible to keep that perfect texture and flavor intact.
FAQs
Can I use different types of beef for the rollups?
Absolutely! While thinly sliced deli roast beef works best for ease and tenderness, you can try thin slices of cooked steak or leftover pot roast. Just make sure it’s tender enough to roll easily without tearing the tortillas.
Is it necessary to caramelize the onions?
Caramelized onions add a wonderful sweet contrast that elevates the flavors, but if you’re short on time, you could sauté them until soft and golden. The slow caramelization, however, really makes a difference in depth and richness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas and make sure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free versions. This way, you won’t miss out on any of the deliciousness.
What can I substitute for provolone cheese?
Swiss cheese is a fantastic alternative, offering a similar melting quality and mild flavor. Fontina or mozzarella could work too but may change the flavor profile slightly.
How spicy is this appetizer?
It’s quite mild by default, with savory, sweet, and umami notes. You can always add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the beef filling if you want to give it a heat kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably fun and satisfying about gathering around a platter of these French Dip Tortilla Rollups: Easy Beefy Appetizer! Recipe pinwheels with friends and family. The combination of caramelized onions, melty cheese, seasoned beef, and that luscious au jus dipping sauce creates a flavor-packed experience you won’t forget. Whether for a cozy evening or a festive party, I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch it become an instant favorite at your table!
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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
These French Dip Tortilla Rollups are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer that combine thinly sliced deli roast beef, caramelized onions, and melted provolone cheese wrapped in warm flour tortillas. Baked until golden and crispy, they are served with a rich and savory au jus dipping sauce, 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
Tortilla Rollups
- 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
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
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)
Instructions
- Prepare Caramelized Onions: Thinly slice 2 large yellow onions. In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter with 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions, ½ tsp granulated sugar, ¼ tsp salt, and ⅛ tsp 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 tsp dried thyme, ¼ tsp crushed dried rosemary, 1 bay leaf, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and ¼ tsp 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 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water) for 1-2 minutes until desired consistency. Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt. Keep warm.
- Assemble Rollups: Briefly warm 8-10 large flour tortillas to make them pliable. (Optional: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup mayonnaise and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for a creamy spread.) In another bowl, quickly toss 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef with 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Spread the optional mayo-Dijon mixture on each tortilla (if using). Layer with 1 slice of provolone cheese, a generous portion of seasoned roast beef, and a good amount of the caramelized onions, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Roll and Slice: Tightly roll each tortilla from one end, tucking in the filling as you go. Once rolled, place seam-side down. Using a sharp, serrated knife, carefully slice each rolled tortilla into 6-8 pinwheels, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Arrange the sliced rollups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cook Rollups: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt 2 tbsp 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 fully melted and bubbly. For extra crispness, you can briefly broil for 1-2 minutes, watching very carefully to prevent burning. (Alternatively, pan-fry in a large skillet with olive oil/butter for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.)
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley (optional). Arrange the hot rollups on a serving platter and serve immediately with the warm au jus dipping sauce in individual or communal bowls. Guests should dip the rollups generously into the au jus.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions slowly over low heat is key to developing a deep, sweet flavor.
- The au jus sauce can be kept warm on the stovetop or in a slow cooker to serve at parties.
- Mayonnaise and Dijon mustard spread is optional but adds a creamy tang.
- Choose either baking or pan-frying to cook rollups depending on preference and time.
- Ensure tortillas are warmed slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Optional cornstarch slurry can help thicken the au jus for better dipping consistency.
