There’s something truly comforting about French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups that takes me back to the cozy kitchen where Mama Lou would gather us around the table. These roll ups, with their tender layers of beef and melty cheese wrapped in warm tortillas, remind me of the evenings when my sister Ouma and I would sneak bites before dinner was even served. It’s a dish that combines the heartiness of a classic French dip sandwich with the fun and convenience of a handheld roll up, perfect for family nights or casual get-togethers. Let me share with you why these roll ups have become a staple in my kitchen and how you can bring a little piece of that nostalgic comfort to your own table.
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Why You’ll Love This French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
Growing up, Mama Lou had a way of turning simple ingredients into magic, and French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are no exception. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for when you want something that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. One of my favorite memories is making these with Ouma on a lazy Sunday afternoon. We’d laugh and chat as we layered the tender roast beef, gooey cheese, and caramelized onions, rolling them tight and dipping each bite into the rich au jus. The combination of savory beef and the soft tortilla creates a satisfying texture that feels indulgent yet homey. Plus, these roll ups are versatile — you can customize them with your favorite cheeses or add a touch of horseradish for a little kick, just like Mama Lou would when she wanted to surprise us.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
- 8 large flour tortillas (10-inch size works best for rolling)
- 2 cups thinly sliced roast beef (leftover or deli-style works great)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (substitute with provolone or mozzarella if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup beef au jus or rich beef broth (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons horseradish sauce for added zing
When I first started making these roll ups, I always thought the au jus had to be complicated — but Mama Lou taught me that a simple mix of beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, seasoned well, can deliver all the depth you need. And if you’re like Ouma, who loves a little extra bite, that horseradish sauce takes these roll ups to the next level.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 350 per roll up
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
These nutrition facts are based on using standard flour tortillas and Swiss cheese. If you use low-fat cheese or whole wheat tortillas, you can adjust the fat and fiber content accordingly. I always remind myself and my readers to enjoy these as part of a balanced meal — maybe paired with a crisp salad or roasted veggies — just like Mama Lou would have wanted.
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Irresistible French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups You Have to Try
Learn how to make delicious French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 large flour tortillas (10-inch size works best for rolling)
- 2 cups thinly sliced roast beef (leftover or deli-style works great)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (substitute with provolone or mozzarella if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup beef au jus or rich beef broth (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons horseradish sauce for added zing
When I first started making these roll ups, I always thought the au jus had to be complicated — but Mama Lou taught me that a simple mix of beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, seasoned well, can deliver all the depth you need. And if you’re like Ouma, who loves a little extra bite, that horseradish sauce takes these roll ups to the next level.
Instructions
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. This step fills the kitchen with the kind of aroma that takes me right back to Mama Lou’s kitchen, where the scent of caramelized onions was a daily delight.
- While the onions cook, warm your beef au jus in a small saucepan. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep it warm on low heat.
- Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Evenly distribute the roast beef slices across each tortilla, then sprinkle the cooked onions on top.
- Generously layer each roll with shredded Swiss cheese. I like to pile it high — Ouma always teased me for being “too cheesy,” but I say, cheese is love!
- Carefully roll each tortilla tightly from one side to the other, making sure the filling stays tucked inside.
- Place the roll ups seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the tortillas are slightly crisp and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing each roll up in half diagonally. This makes them easier to dip and share, a tradition Ouma and I always look forward to.
- Serve hot with the warm au jus on the side for dipping. If you like, add a small dollop of horseradish sauce on the side for a little extra punch.
One tip I learned from Mama Lou is to keep the filling well balanced. Too much beef can make rolling tricky, and too much cheese can get messy. Finding that perfect harmony is part of the joy — a little like balancing flavors in any family recipe handed down with love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. This step fills the kitchen with the kind of aroma that takes me right back to Mama Lou’s kitchen, where the scent of caramelized onions was a daily delight.
- While the onions cook, warm your beef au jus in a small saucepan. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep it warm on low heat.
- Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Evenly distribute the roast beef slices across each tortilla, then sprinkle the cooked onions on top.
- Generously layer each roll with shredded Swiss cheese. I like to pile it high — Ouma always teased me for being “too cheesy,” but I say, cheese is love!
- Carefully roll each tortilla tightly from one side to the other, making sure the filling stays tucked inside.
- Place the roll ups seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the tortillas are slightly crisp and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing each roll up in half diagonally. This makes them easier to dip and share, a tradition Ouma and I always look forward to.
- Serve hot with the warm au jus on the side for dipping. If you like, add a small dollop of horseradish sauce on the side for a little extra punch.
One tip I learned from Mama Lou is to keep the filling well balanced. Too much beef can make rolling tricky, and too much cheese can get messy. Finding that perfect harmony is part of the joy — a little like balancing flavors in any family recipe handed down with love. Learn more: Irresistible Cowboy Butter Dipping Sauce Recipe You Need to Try
Tips for Making the Best French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups
- Use the freshest tortillas you can find for the best texture; store-bought large flour tortillas work well, but homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Don’t skip the caramelized onions — they add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef perfectly.
- If you’re short on time, use thinly sliced deli roast beef, but for that extra touch, leftover roast from Sunday dinner works beautifully.
- To prevent sogginess, make sure your au jus is warm but not boiling when dipping.
- Feel free to experiment with cheese types — Swiss is classic, but provolone or even a sharp cheddar can bring a new dimension.
- For an even crisper tortilla, brush the outside lightly with melted butter before baking.
I remember once when Ouma and I tried adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme to the onions — it was a small twist, but it brought back memories of Mama Lou’s herb garden and made those roll ups even more special. Cooking is always about making these recipes your own.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
French Dip Tortilla Roll Ups are wonderful on their own, but pairing them thoughtfully makes the meal feel complete. When I serve them, I often include a simple mixed green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of roasted root vegetables or crispy sweet potato fries adds texture and color to the plate.
For drinks, a cold glass of iced tea or a light red wine complements the deep flavors of the beef and cheese. And of course, if you’re serving these at a casual gathering, a bowl of extra au jus for dipping — just like Mama Lou’s tradition — keeps everyone coming back for more.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These roll ups are fantastic for meal prep or leftovers. I like to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tortillas soggy.
If you have leftover au jus, store it separately in a sealed jar or container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove and use it to revive the roll ups or even as a flavorful broth for soups.
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 carry a special place in my heart — they’re more than just a meal, they’re a connection to my family, to Mama Lou’s kitchen, and to the laughter-filled afternoons with Ouma. These roll ups are a reminder that food is a language of love, a way to bring people together across generations and create new memories while honoring the old. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your own kitchen rituals, a simple yet soulful dish that warms your heart as much as it fills your belly.
“Cooking with love is an art that never fades — and every bite of these roll ups carries a story worth sharing.”
