The Italian Beef Sandwich is one of the most iconic sandwiches to come out of Chicago. Known for its tender slow-cooked beef, flavorful broth, and hearty bread, this recipe has earned its place as a favorite among food lovers. Preparing it at home is much simpler than many think, and the result is a sandwich loaded with rich taste, customizable toppings, and a satisfying texture.
What makes this recipe so special is the combination of seasoned beef cooked until fork-tender and served on crusty French bread that can hold up to the juicy filling. The broth, infused with onions, garlic, and Italian herbs, adds depth of flavor that makes every bite enjoyable. For those who like variety, toppings such as giardiniera or provolone cheese give the sandwich a personal touch, allowing you to make it as classic or creative as you prefer.
The beef can be cooked in advance and reheated. Whether served plain with broth or dressed up with cheese and giardiniera, it’s a satisfying option that appeals to many tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Sandwich
There are plenty of reasons why this Italian Beef Sandwich deserves a spot on your table:
- Full of flavor – The slow-cooked beef absorbs the rich broth made with garlic, onion, and Italian spices, creating a savory and well-balanced taste.
- Tender texture – Cooking low and slow ensures the beef shreds easily and stays juicy.
- Customizable – Keep it simple or load it with toppings like spicy giardiniera or melted provolone.
- Perfect for sharing – This recipe makes several sandwiches, making it a great choice for family dinners, parties, or game day spreads.
- Meal-prep friendly – The beef can be made ahead of time, stored, and reheated without losing flavor.
This combination of taste, texture, and flexibility makes the Italian Beef Sandwich a recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare a classic Italian Beef Sandwich at home, you’ll need simple yet flavorful ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance of taste and texture.
For the Beef:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast – this cut is ideal for slow cooking because it becomes tender and shreds easily.
- 1 large onion, sliced – adds natural sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – for bold flavor.
- 4 cups beef broth – creates the rich base for the sandwich.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – a blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary for authentic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – enhances the herb profile.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – for a subtle heat.
- 1 teaspoon salt – adjust to taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground gives the best result.
For Serving:
- 6 to 8 Italian rolls or French bread loaves – sturdy enough to hold the juicy beef.
- Hot giardiniera – a traditional Chicago topping made of pickled vegetables with a spicy kick.
- Provolone cheese slices (optional) – for a melty, creamy layer.
- Banana peppers (optional) – for extra tang and spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare Italian Beef Sandwiches that are packed with flavor and easy to serve:
- Prepare the beef
- Trim excess fat from the beef chuck roast.
- Season all sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the beef
- Place the roast in a slow cooker, Dutch oven, or Instant Pot.
- Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Cover and cook until the beef is tender and shreds easily:
- Slow cooker: 8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high.
- Dutch oven: 3–4 hours at 325°F (160°C).
- Instant Pot: About 60–70 minutes on high pressure with natural release.
- Shred the beef
- Once cooked, remove the roast from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid if needed, then return the shredded beef to the broth to keep it juicy.
- Toast the bread
- Lightly toast the Italian rolls or French bread in the oven for a few minutes.
- This helps the bread hold up better when dipped in broth.
- Assemble the sandwiches
- Load each roll with a generous portion of shredded beef.
- Top with provolone cheese, giardiniera, or banana peppers if desired.
- Serve with broth
- Ladle some of the flavorful beef broth into small bowls for dipping.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Use chuck roast for the most flavorful and tender result.
- For a spicier sandwich, use hot giardiniera or increase red pepper flakes.
- To make it cheesy, melt provolone slices over the beef before serving.
- Serve with French fries or potato wedges for a complete meal.
Authentic Italian Beef Sandwich Recipe
Description
This Italian Beef Sandwich recipe features tender slow-cooked beef, flavorful broth, and classic toppings like giardiniera and provolone cheese. Perfect for family meals, gatherings, or when you want a comforting Chicago-style sandwich at home.Italian beef sandwich, Chicago beef sandwich, homemade Italian beef recipe
Ingredients
For Serving:
Instructions
-
Trim excess fat from the beef chuck roast. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
-
Place beef in a slow cooker, Dutch oven, or Instant Pot. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
-
Cook until the beef is fork-tender:
- Slow Cooker: 8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high.
- Dutch Oven: 3–4 hours at 325°F (160°C).
- Instant Pot: 60–70 minutes on high pressure, natural release.
-
Remove beef, shred with two forks, and return to broth to soak up the flavors.
-
Toast Italian rolls or French bread until lightly crisp.
-
Pile shredded beef onto each roll. Add provolone cheese, giardiniera, or banana peppers if desired.
-
Serve hot with a side of broth for dipping.
