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
Scale
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.
