Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

While chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and how it breaks down during slow cooking, you could substitute bottom round, rump roast, or brisket. Just be aware that leaner cuts might not be quite as tender or flavorful, so you may want to add a bit more oil to the cooking liquid.

My beef isn't shredding easily. What did I do wrong?

If your beef isn't shredding easily, it likely needs more time to cook. Contrary to what you might think, tough meat after slow cooking usually means it's undercooked, not overcooked. Return it to the oven/slow cooker and check again in 30-minute intervals.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level depends entirely on the giardiniera you choose. They range from mild to hot, so select according to your heat preference. You can always serve extra giardiniera on the side so everyone can adjust to their liking.

Can I make this recipe without giardiniera?

While giardiniera adds authentic flavor, you can substitute with a mix of pickled vegetables or even pepperoncini peppers. The tangy, vinegary component balances the rich beef, so try to include something with that profile.

Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe

This mouthwatering Italian Beef Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food that brings Chicago street food right to your kitchen! Tender, juicy beef slowly cooked with aromatic herbs and spices, piled high on a crusty roll, and topped with tangy giardiniera – it’s a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or anytime you’re craving something truly satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fork-Tender Meat: The slow cooking process transforms an affordable chuck roast into melt-in-your-mouth, shredded beef that’s packed with flavor.
Set It and Forget It: Whether you choose the oven, slow cooker, or Instant Pot method, this recipe does most of the work for you while you go about your day.
Crowd-Pleaser: These sandwiches are guaranteed to impress everyone from picky eaters to foodies. They’re perfect for family dinners or feeding a hungry game day crowd.
Authentic Flavors: The herb blend and giardiniera create that classic Chicago-style Italian beef taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chuck Roast: The star of the show, this cut becomes incredibly tender when cooked low and slow, breaking down into succulent, shreddable beef.
Beef Broth: Creates the savory base for your meat to braise in, infusing flavor throughout the cooking process.
Giardiniera: This Chicago-style Italian pepper mix adds brightness, acidity, and a kick of heat to cut through the richness of the meat. The oils from the mixture also enhance the flavor profile.
Dried Herbs: Oregano, basil, and parsley create that classic Italian flavor profile that makes these sandwiches irresistible.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These provide depth and savory notes throughout the meat without the texture of fresh garlic and onion.
Sugar: Just a touch balances the acidity and enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
Fresh Onion: Slices of yellow onion practically melt into the meat as it cooks, adding sweetness and complexity.
Hoagie Rolls: The vessel for all this deliciousness! The best rolls have a slightly crusty exterior and soft interior to soak up those amazing juices.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Spice Level Adjustments

Not a fan of heat? Use mild giardiniera or even substitute with roasted bell peppers for a milder sandwich. Love things spicy? Add some red pepper flakes or hot giardiniera to kick things up.

Cheese It Up

While purists might disagree, a slice of provolone or mozzarella melted over the hot beef takes these sandwiches to another level of deliciousness.

Green Pepper Addition

Sliced green bell peppers cooked with the onions add another layer of traditional Italian beef flavor.

French Dip Style

Strain and serve the cooking liquid on the side as an au jus for dipping.

How to Make Italian Beef Sandwiches

Step 1: Sear the Meat

Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over high heat. Sear the chuck roast on all sides until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step creates a flavorful crust that will enhance the final dish.

Step 2: Add Flavoring Components

Remove the pot from heat and layer sliced onions on top of the roast. Pour in beef broth and half of the giardiniera with its juices. This liquid bath will tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Step 3: Season Generously

In a small bowl, combine oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the roast. The herb blend will create that classic Italian beef profile.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer to a preheated 350°F oven. Let it cook for 3 hours, or until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 202°F and shreds easily with a fork. This slow cooking process breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 5: Shred and Serve

Once the meat is fall-apart tender, shred it using two forks, allowing it to soak in the flavorful juices. Serve on hoagie rolls (toasted or untoasted) and top with the remaining giardiniera for that perfect tangy crunch.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the meat before slow cooking adds tremendous depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction.
Patience Pays Off: The magic happens at an internal temperature of 202°F. If your meat isn’t easily shreddable, let it cook a bit longer.
Save the Jus: The cooking liquid is liquid gold! Serve the sandwiches “wet” by dipping the assembled sandwich in the jus, or serve it on the side for dipping.
Slice Against the Grain: If you prefer slicing instead of shredding, always cut perpendicular to the muscle fibers for maximum tenderness.
Double the Batch: This beef freezes beautifully, so consider making extra for quick future meals.

How to Serve

Classic Presentation

Serve these sandwiches “dry” (just the meat on a roll), “wet” (the roll dipped in jus), or “dipped” (the entire sandwich quickly dunked in jus). Top with extra giardiniera for the authentic experience.

Side Dishes

Pair with crispy french fries, pasta salad, or a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to complete the meal.

Beverage Pairings

These hearty sandwiches go perfectly with a cold beer, an Italian soda, or even a glass of Chianti if you’re feeling fancy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the shredded beef with its juices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor actually improves overnight as the herbs and spices continue to meld.

Freezing

This beef freezes beautifully! Portion the meat with some of the cooking liquid in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for quick future meals.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the beef slowly in a saucepan with some of the cooking liquid until warmed through. Assemble sandwiches just before serving to prevent soggy rolls.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

While chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and how it breaks down during slow cooking, you could substitute bottom round, rump roast, or brisket. Just be aware that leaner cuts might not be quite as tender or flavorful, so you may want to add a bit more oil to the cooking liquid.
My beef isn’t shredding easily. What did I do wrong?

If your beef isn’t shredding easily, it likely needs more time to cook. Contrary to what you might think, tough meat after slow cooking usually means it’s undercooked, not overcooked. Return it to the oven/slow cooker and check again in 30-minute intervals.
How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level depends entirely on the giardiniera you choose. They range from mild to hot, so select according to your heat preference. You can always serve extra giardiniera on the side so everyone can adjust to their liking.
Can I make this recipe without giardiniera?

While giardiniera adds authentic flavor, you can substitute with a mix of pickled vegetables or even pepperoncini peppers. The tangy, vinegary component balances the rich beef, so try to include something with that profile.

Final Thoughts

These Italian Beef Sandwiches bring a taste of Chicago right to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of tender, herb-infused beef and tangy, crunchy giardiniera creates a sandwich experience that’s simply unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time. Give it a try this weekend – your taste buds will thank you!