Simple Hot Roast Beef Sandwiches With Mushroom Au Jus

The scent of simmering beef broth, mingling with earthy mushrooms and a hint of garlic, instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She wasn’t a fancy chef, but her ability to create comforting, flavorful meals out of simple ingredients was legendary. This recipe, inspired by a craving for that same kind of comforting simplicity, evokes those warm memories with every bite. There’s something undeniably satisfying about tender roast beef, melty Swiss cheese, and that rich, savory au jus that makes this sandwich an instant classic.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: 8 sandwiches
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 lb roast beef, sandwich meat (thinly sliced deli style)
• 1 loaf bakery Italian bread (or any other style bread you choose)
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 32 ounces beef broth, divided
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon McCormick garlic and herb seasoning
• 1/8 cup minced onion
• 4 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Small bowl
• Cookie sheet
• Knife
• Cutting board

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the mushroom base. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they soften and release their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.

2. While the mushrooms are sautéing, season them generously with garlic powder, McCormick garlic and herb seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.

3. Introduce the broth and aromatics. Add the beef broth (reserving 1/2 cup for later), Worcestershire sauce, and minced onion to the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

4. Prepare the thickening agent. In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved 1/2 cup of beef broth and the cornstarch until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.

5. Thicken the au jus. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet with the mushroom and broth mixture. Stir continuously and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

6. Infuse the beef. Add the roast beef to the skillet with the simmering mushroom au jus. Cover the skillet and let the beef simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors and become tender.

7. Prepare the bread. While the beef is simmering, slice the Italian bread into 8 equal pieces. If the loaf is not already split sandwich-style, cut each piece horizontally to create top and bottom slices. You should now have 16 slices of bread.

8. Assemble the sandwiches. Place the bread slices on a cookie sheet. On 8 of the slices (the bottom slices), evenly distribute about 4 or 5 pieces of roast beef on each. Then, spoon the mushroom mixture evenly over the roast beef on each sandwich.

9. Add the cheese. Top each sandwich with a slice of Swiss cheese.

10. Broil until golden and melted. Place the cookie sheet with the assembled sandwiches in the oven and broil them until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is lightly toasted, about 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

11. Serve immediately. Remove the sandwiches from the oven and serve them immediately with a side of the remaining au jus for dipping.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an even richer flavor, consider using a combination of different types of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms.

• If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add a clove of minced garlic to the skillet along with the mushrooms.

• To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, toast it lightly before adding the roast beef and mushroom mixture.

• If you don’t have Swiss cheese, you can substitute it with provolone, mozzarella, or any other cheese that melts well.

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom au jus.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these delicious hot roast beef sandwiches immediately while they are still warm and the cheese is melted and gooey. The au jus is best served warm as well, providing a flavorful dipping sauce for each bite.

Leftover roast beef and mushroom au jus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bread, however, is best enjoyed fresh. When reheating, you can reheat the beef and au jus in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. It’s best to assemble a fresh sandwich when ready to eat to avoid a soggy bread.

The au jus can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	376.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	165g	44%
Total Fat	18.4 g	28%
Saturated Fat	7.5 g	37%
Cholesterol	67.1 mg	22%
Sodium	1267.2 mg	52%
Total Carbohydrate	23.8 g	7%
Dietary Fiber	1.2 g	5%
Sugars	2 g	7%
Protein	29.6 g	59%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the au jus.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the roast beef with portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar and herbs.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
• Bread Choice: Try using ciabatta rolls, French rolls, or even sourdough bread for a unique twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make the au jus ahead of time?
A: Yes, the au jus can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. Reheat gently before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent the bread from getting soggy?
A: Toast the bread slices lightly before assembling the sandwiches. This creates a barrier that helps prevent the bread from absorbing too much moisture from the au jus.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! While roast beef is traditional, you can substitute it with thinly sliced turkey, ham, or even pulled pork.

Q: How do I make sure the cheese melts evenly?
A: Ensure the cheese slices are evenly distributed over the roast beef and mushrooms. Broiling the sandwiches on a lower rack in the oven can also help the cheese melt more evenly without burning the bread.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the au jus?
A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the au jus for added flavor and texture. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms at the beginning of the recipe.

Final Thoughts

These Simple Hot Roast Beef Sandwiches with Mushroom Au Jus are more than just a meal; they’re a comforting experience that brings people together. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make this recipe your own. Whether you’re craving a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try, share your feedback, and perhaps pair it with a crisp salad or a hearty bowl of soup for the perfect meal. Enjoy!