This Italian Beef Sandwich recipe delivers a savory and juicy sandwich that’s packed with flavor. The beef is slow-cooked until tender and then served on a crusty roll with a generous portion of the cooking juices. Perfect for a hearty meal, this sandwich is a Chicago classic that’s sure to satisfy.
Appliances and Special Utensils
Ingredients
- 3-4 lb beef chuck roast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 jar (16 oz) pepperoncini peppers, with juice
- 6-8 crusty Italian rolls
- Provolone cheese slices (optional)
- Giardiniera (optional for serving)
Instructions
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Sear Beef: Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
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Cook Aromatics: In the same pan, add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Transfer the onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
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Prepare Broth: In a bowl, combine the beef broth, water, oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
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Add Pepperoncini: Add the entire jar of pepperoncini peppers, including the juice, to the slow cooker.
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Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
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Shred Beef: Remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use tongs or two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces.
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Combine: Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker, mixing it with the cooking juices and allowing it to sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Assemble Sandwiches: Slice the Italian rolls and, if desired, toast them lightly. Fill each roll with a generous portion of the shredded beef and top with provolone cheese slices and giardiniera if using.
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Serve: Serve the Italian beef sandwiches hot, with a small bowl of the cooking juices for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Italian Beef Sandwiches!