Mouthwatering French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups You Need to Try Today

There’s something so comforting about the idea of a French Dip sandwich—the tender roast beef, the rich au jus for dipping, and that melty cheese all wrapped in a soft roll. Growing up in Monterey, where family meals were a daily celebration, I often found myself craving those hearty, nostalgic flavors but in a quicker, more playful form. That’s how these French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups came to life in my kitchen. They’re a perfect blend of my grandmother Nonna Rosa’s love for rustic simplicity and my mother Elena’s flair for improvisation—rolled into a fun, easy-to-share appetizer or meal that brings everyone together. Let me take you on a little journey, sharing the warmth and stories behind these roll ups, and how you can make them a new favorite in your own home.

Why You’ll Love This French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups

French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are one of those recipes that feel like a hug from the inside out. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but without the fuss, or for family gatherings where you want to serve something that sparks smiles and conversation. What I love most is how these roll ups capture the essence of a classic French Dip sandwich but with a twist that makes them portable, shareable, and wonderfully versatile.

When I was a child, my Nonna Rosa would often say, “Cooking is love made visible,” and these roll ups are exactly that for me. The layers of thinly sliced roast beef, melted provolone, and a touch of horseradish cream wrapped in soft flour tortillas bring together flavors that remind me of holiday dinners and bustling Italian markets. Plus, dipping them into a homemade au jus is like a little celebration in every bite. Whether you’re feeding kids like my daughters Olivia and Isabella, or entertaining friends, these roll ups bring everyone closer around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups

• 8 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
• 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef (use deli-quality or leftover roast)
• 8 slices provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup beef broth (preferably low sodium)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter (for pan-searing)
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Substitution tips: If you prefer a lighter option, you can swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortillas. And if you like a little heat, add a dash of cayenne or chipotle powder to the horseradish sauce.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 380 per 2 roll ups serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg

These numbers are based on typical ingredient brands and serving sizes. I always encourage balancing out these roll ups with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to keep the meal well-rounded and satisfying. Learn more: Sweet and Savory Delight Maple Rosemary Chicken Recipe You Need to Try

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Steps to Create Your French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups

1. In a small saucepan, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer, then reduce to low and keep warm. This will be your dipping au jus. I remember standing by the stove as a kid, watching my Nonna’s broth simmer, filling the kitchen with that cozy aroma—it’s the heart of this dish.
2. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and horseradish to create your horseradish cream. Adjust the amount of horseradish depending on how much bite you like. My mother Elena always said, “Don’t be shy with the horseradish—it wakes up the flavors!”
3. Lay one tortilla flat on your workspace. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the horseradish cream evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Layer on 2-3 slices of roast beef, making sure it covers the tortilla but doesn’t overfill to prevent spilling during rolling.
5. Place one slice of provolone cheese over the beef. The cheese melts beautifully when warmed, tying everything together with that creamy texture my daughters always ask for.
6. Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted and bubbling, place the roll ups seam-side down to seal them. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they’re golden brown and the cheese inside starts to melt. This step gives them a deliciously crispy exterior, a trick I picked up wandering Spanish tapas bars during my travels.
8. Remove the roll ups from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Slice each roll into 2-3 bite-sized pieces if serving as appetizers.
9. Serve immediately with warm au jus for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Making the Best French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups

• Use thinly sliced roast beef to ensure the roll ups stay tender and don’t become too bulky. When I visited Italian markets, I noticed how the vendors always thinly sliced cured meats to create delicate, balanced bites—something I bring home to these roll ups.
• Don’t skip the horseradish cream; it adds a lovely zing that cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese.
• Be gentle but firm when rolling to avoid tearing the tortillas. A light brush of melted butter on the tortillas before rolling can add flavor and help with pliability.
• For extra melty cheese, cover the skillet with a lid during the last minute of cooking.
• If you have leftovers, reheat them gently in a skillet or oven rather than the microwave to keep the tortillas crisp.
• Make the au jus ahead of time and keep it warm while you prepare the roll ups to streamline your cooking process—something I learned from my grandmother’s kitchen, where timing was everything.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are incredibly versatile. I love serving them as a cozy family dinner with a big green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette and roasted fingerling potatoes on the side. For parties, slice them into smaller pieces and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking. My daughters and their friends adore dipping these roll ups into the flavorful au jus—it’s always a hit.

Pairing with a light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing iced tea balances the richness wonderfully. On chilly Monterey evenings, I sometimes add a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup alongside for an extra dose of comfort that feels like a warm embrace from Nonna Rosa herself.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers, store the roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I recommend warming them gently in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through and the cheese is melty again. This keeps the tortillas crispy and prevents them from getting soggy, a little secret I picked up while cooking for my girls and wanting to preserve that freshly made texture.

You can also reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, wrapped in foil to avoid drying out. Keep the au jus warm on the stovetop or reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups?

The main ingredients for French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups?

The total time to make French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups ahead of time?

Yes, French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups?

French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are a tribute to the flavors that shaped my childhood kitchen in Monterey—a blend of my grandmother’s rustic sensibility and my mother’s spontaneous creativity. They’re simple, warm, and packed with the kind of nostalgia that makes you want to gather around the table with loved ones. Cooking these roll ups reminds me of those flour-dusted afternoons kneading dough alongside Nonna Rosa, and the laughter-filled dinners my mother would whip up on a whim.

Whether you’re making them for a cozy family meal or a festive gathering, these roll ups bring a little piece of my heritage to your kitchen. I hope they inspire you to slow down, savor the moment, and share food that feels like home. Buon appetito!