Easy French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups: A Delicious Twist on Comfort Food
I’ll be honest, I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t tangled up in the kitchen, fighting with pots, pans, and my own stubbornness to turn out something delicious. I didn’t magically become a gourmet chef overnight. Nope, I’ve had my fair share of “oops” moments — burnt dinners, missing ingredients, and recipes that seemed like a good idea at the time but ended up in the trash.
But then came the French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups—oh boy, these beauties changed everything for me! This easy recipe became my go-to for cozy weeknight dinners. They’re simple enough to whip together after a long day, but impressive enough to steal the show at any gathering. Plus, what could be better than a warm, cheesy roll loaded with savory roast beef, all dipped in a rich au jus? Talk about healthy comfort food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl!
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’ve settled into your favorite spot on the couch, fuzzy blanket wrapped around your legs. You can hear the faint crackle of the oven as those roll-ups cook, filling the air with a savory aroma that draws you closer to the kitchen. Then the golden-brown tortillas emerge, crisp and inviting, ready to be sliced and shared.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, these roll-ups combine comfort and ease effortlessly. No crazy chef skills required! Just some good ol’ tortillas and a few pantry staples. Trust me; you’ll want to bookmark this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick family meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- So customizable! Add your favorite toppings, or substitute ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.
- One word: leftovers. These roll-ups taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep or a lunchbox favorite.
- Kid-approved! I mean, what’s not to love about cheese and beef wrapped in a tortilla? Good luck getting the kids to pick up a green veggie instead!
- They’re wallet-friendly! Using ingredients you might already have on hand offers a budget-friendly solution for dinner.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
I have to say, the magic lies in the combination of flavors and textures. The gooey provolone pulls together the savory roast beef, while the crunchy French fried onions add an unexpected crunch that keeps things exciting. And let’s not overlook the homemade au jus, bringing it all home with its robust, rich flavor, perfect for dunking. Honestly, it transforms an everyday meal into something special without breaking the bank.
Now, here’s where it gets a bit personal for me. The first time I made these, I got a bit too excited and rolled up the tortillas like a burrito—note to self: don’t rush. Oops! The fillings came bursting out like a taco at a party. But you know what? Even the messy attempts ended up being delicious, reminding me that it’s about the experience more than perfection.
Ingredients
4 large flour tortillas, about 12 inches in diameter – These create the perfect wrap for all your fillings. Whole wheat or spinach tortillas are great substitutes if you’re feeling adventurous!
8 slices provolone cheese, thinly sliced – The gooey nature of provolone adds a melty goodness that binds everything together.
12 ounces deli roast beef, freshly sliced – This is where you can really get creative! Use any type of roast beef, or even turkey slices for a lighter option. The key is to choose deli meat that’s juicy and flavorful.
1 cup French fried onions, store-bought or homemade – They bring an irresistible crunch. Don’t skip this part! But if you’re feeling crafty, you can make your own by frying thin onion slices—just be prepared for a fragrant kitchen!
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – This is primarily used for brushing the tortillas for that golden finish. You could also use melted butter if you’re feeling indulgent.
1 can (10.5 ounces) beef consommé – This gives the dish its depth. If you want a fresh approach, use homemade beef broth instead.
1 cup water – Helps to thin the consommé into a lovely dip.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – This adds a wonderful umami kick that makes the au jus irresistible.
2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce – A little sprinkle of this sauce rounds out the flavor. Low sodium keeps it balanced, allowing the other flavors to shine.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder – A little extra onion flavor never hurt anyone!
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
How to Make It Step-by-Step
Now, let’s dive into the making of these delicious roll-ups! The process is pretty straightforward, and may even become a fun family project. As I walk you through it, imagine you have your favorite cooking playlist set and the oven buzzing softly in the background.
1. Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s set that oven to 425°F (220°C). I’ve learned this the hard way: having a preheated oven is crucial for getting that perfect crispy exterior.
2. Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. It’s a lifesaver for easy release and cleanup. Trust me, no one wants to scrub melted cheese off a pan—been there, done that, and it’s not a pretty sight.
3. Assemble Your Tortillas
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Gently place 2 slices of provolone cheese over half of it. You want the cheese to serve as a barrier to keep all those delicious juices from soaking through the tortilla. Go ahead, once you get the hang of it, lay things out like a pro!
Next, add about 3 ounces of roast beef on top of the cheese. I usually go a little heavier because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love hearty filling? Then, sprinkle on a generous handful of French fried onions. This is the moment when things start to look truly appetizing!
Before rolling, brush the inside edge of the tortilla lightly with olive oil. This will help seal the tortilla and make it ever-so-crispy.
4. Roll It Up
Starting from the filled end, tightly roll up the tortilla, making sure your filling is snugly enclosed. Press the oiled edge to seal everything in. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Are you getting excited yet? Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, and soon you’ll have a whole lineup of delicious rolls ready to bake.
5. Brush & Bake
Brush the tops and sides of each roll lightly with the remaining olive oil. This step is crucial to achieving that golden-brown, crisp exterior that we’re all dreaming about.
Now pop them into the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. I like to rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the tortillas are beautifully golden and the cheese is just starting to bubble at the edges.
6. Making the Au Jus
While those tasty rolls are baking away, let’s get that dip going! In a small saucepan, combine the beef consommé, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder. Heat it over medium, whisking to blend. It should come to a gentle simmer after about 3-4 minutes. The smell? Absolute bliss!
7. Let Them Rest
Once the roll-ups are done, resist the urge to dive in right away. Let them rest on a wire rack for about 2 minutes. This will allow the cheese to set slightly, making slicing easier.
8. Slice & Serve!
Once rested, slice each roll into halves or thirds for serving. Arrange these beautiful slices on a platter and serve immediately alongside your steaming au jus for dipping. Seriously, just take a moment to appreciate how good these look.
Tips for Best Results
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Don’t Overfill – This is a common mistake; it leads to mess and exploding fillings.
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Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh deli meats and quality cheese go a long way in elevating the flavor.
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Experiment – Don’t hesitate to add your own twist! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even some horseradish sauce can add depth.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- For a healthier twist, use whole wheat tortillas or try a cauliflower wrap for a low-carb version.
- If you’re going vegetarian, swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms and add some sautéed spinach for richness.
- You can also mix up the cheeses! Mozzarella or cheddar can make for a gooey alternative, depending on your taste.
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Assemble the roll-ups by layering provolone cheese, roast beef, and French fried onions atop half of each tortilla.
3. Roll tightly and seal, then place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
4. Brush the tops and sides with olive oil and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
5. While baking, prepare the au jus by simmering the beef consommé, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder in a saucepan.
6. Let the roll-ups rest for a couple of minutes, then slice and serve them warm with au jus.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
These roll-ups shine on their own, but if you want to elevate your meal, consider serving them with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. A nice, cold sparkling water with lemon would be a refreshing drink to balance out the richness, or a crisp lager if you’re in the mood for something stronger. And for dessert? A simple scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce feels like the perfect ending note to a cozy meal.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Let’s be real, leftovers can sometimes be a pain, especially if you’re not sure how to keep things from turning soggy. Once cooled completely, store any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When reheating, try tossing them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture rather than using the microwave, which tends to turn things soggy. A quick roast at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes should do the trick. And if you’re like me and forgot to save your homemade au jus, a splash of broth or even a bit of soy sauce in a pinch works!
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
You can actually prepare these roll-ups ahead of time. Assemble them, but don’t bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to dive in, just toss them in the oven straight from the fridge—no need to wait!
If you’d like to freeze them, do so before baking. Just be sure to wrap them well. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Skipping the Oil – Not brushing the edges can lead to open seams and spilled fillings.
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Cold Ingredients – Be sure to use room temperature meat and cheese to help with melting and flavor.
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Missing Out on Seasoning – Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning! The au jus should be flavorful and enticing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken will work well if you’re looking to switch things up.
Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the meat and load up on vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers instead.
Q: How do I prevent soggy tortillas?
Ensure you’re using the right amount of filling, and the olive oil helps keep them crisp.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife for slicing
- Small saucepan for the au jus
- Whisk for blending the sauce
Final Thoughts
As I sit here reminiscing about the countless times I’ve made French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups, a wave of comfort floods in. They’ve become a staple in my house, a remedy for busy days and a cherished recipe to share with friends. They remind me of spontaneous dinner parties, quick lunches, and late-night snacks.
I hope you find as much joy in making (and devouring) these roll-ups as I do. Feel free to share your own stories or modifications you’ve tried! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend. You never know; it might just end up becoming their new favorite too!
French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
Ingredients
For the Roll Ups
- 4 large flour tortillas, about 12 inches in diameter Whole wheat or spinach tortillas can be substituted.
- 8 slices provolone cheese, thinly sliced Provides melty goodness.
- 12 ounces deli roast beef, freshly sliced Juicy and flavorful; turkey slices can be used as a lighter option.
- 1 cup French fried onions, store-bought or homemade Adds an irresistible crunch.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Used for brushing the tortillas.
For the Au Jus
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) beef consommé Or use homemade beef broth.
- 1 cup water Helps to thin the consommé.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds umami flavor.
- 2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce Balances flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Gently place 2 slices of provolone cheese over half of it.
- Add about 3 ounces of roast beef on top of the cheese, followed by a generous handful of French fried onions.
- Brush the inside edge of the tortilla lightly with olive oil, then roll it up tightly from the filled end, sealing the edge.
- Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Baking
- Brush the tops and sides of each roll lightly with the remaining olive oil.
- Bake in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
Making the Au Jus
- While the roll-ups are baking, combine beef consommé, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder in a saucepan.
- Heat over medium, whisking to blend, until simmering.
Serving
- Once the roll-ups are done, let them rest on a wire rack for 2 minutes.
- Slice each roll into halves or thirds and serve warm with au jus for dipping.
