Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe

Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food—tender, shredded beef slow-cooked in a flavorful broth with Italian herbs and spices, served on crusty rolls, and topped with melted cheese and tangy giardiniera. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker, which transforms a tough roast into juicy, fall-apart beef after hours of simmering in a rich, aromatic broth. Perfect for a family dinner, game day, or even a casual gathering, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit!

Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these mouthwatering Italian beef sandwiches, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions.

this Recipe

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What Are Italian Beef Sandwiches?

Italian Beef Sandwiches are a Chicago classic that feature thinly sliced or shredded beef that’s been slow-cooked in a savory broth with Italian seasonings. The beef is typically served on a hoagie or Italian roll, topped with giardiniera (a mix of pickled vegetables), and sometimes provolone or mozzarella cheese. The bread is often dipped or "dunked" in the beef's juices, making it wonderfully flavorful and slightly soggy (in the best possible way!). This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

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Ingredients List for Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious, juicy sandwiches:

• 3-4 pound chuck roast (or top round roast)
• 1 packet (1 ounce) dry Italian dressing mix (or homemade, see below)
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
• ½ cup pepperoncini peppers (sliced, with juice)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning (or 1 teaspoon each of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 small onion (sliced, optional)
• 6-8 hoagie rolls or Italian rolls
• Provolone cheese (or mozzarella, optional)
• Giardiniera (for topping, optional)

Homemade Italian Dressing Mix (Optional):

If you want to make your own Italian dressing mix, combine:

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Substitutions and Variations

These Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches are versatile, and you can easily adapt them to suit your preferences. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Meat: While chuck roast is ideal for this recipe because it becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked, you can use top round, brisket, or even pork shoulder as alternatives.
• Cheese: Provolone is the most common cheese used for Italian beef sandwiches, but mozzarella or fontina are also great choices. You can skip the cheese if you prefer a more traditional version.
• Peppers: Pepperoncini peppers add a slight tangy kick, but you can substitute banana peppers for a milder flavor. You can also add roasted bell peppers or jalapeños for extra spice.
• Broth: Beef broth is traditional, but you can use chicken or vegetable broth if needed. You can also add a splash of beer or red wine for extra depth of flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, replace the beef with shredded jackfruit or use portobello mushrooms, and substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Sear the Beef (Optional)

If you have time, searing the beef before slow-cooking adds extra flavor. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the roast with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once seared, transfer the roast to your slow cooker.

2. Add the Seasonings

In the slow cooker, sprinkle the Italian dressing mix (or homemade Italian seasoning) over the beef. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and pepperoncini peppers with a bit of their juice (about ¼ cup). You can also add sliced onions for extra flavor if desired.

3. Slow Cook the Beef

Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 8-10 hours or on High for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will become.

4. Shred the Beef

Once the beef is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it into the juices. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb more flavor.

5. Prepare the Sandwiches

Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Slice the hoagie rolls and, if desired, lightly toast them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Load each roll with a generous portion of shredded beef. If you’re using cheese, place a slice of provolone or mozzarella on top of the beef and broil for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Add Toppings and Serve

Top the sandwiches with giardiniera for a tangy, crunchy kick. You can also add more pepperoncini peppers or a drizzle of the beef’s juices (au jus) for extra flavor. Serve the sandwiches hot, with extra au jus on the side for dipping.

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How to Make Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Searing the Beef (Optional but Recommended)

Searing the roast before slow-cooking helps lock in the beef’s juices and adds extra flavor. It’s not necessary, but if you have time, it’s worth the extra step for a more flavorful final dish.

Step 2: Slow Cooking for Maximum Tenderness

Slow-cooking the beef for a long time (8-10 hours on Low) ensures that it becomes incredibly tender and easy to shred. If you’re short on time, cooking it on High for 4-5 hours will still yield delicious results, but Low is ideal for the best texture.

Step 3: Shredding and Juicing

After slow-cooking, shred the beef and return it to the slow cooker to soak up the flavorful juices. This step is key to making the beef even more tender and juicy, so don’t skip it!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Searing Step: While not essential, searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth of flavor. It’s an extra step that’s worth it if you have time.
2. Not Cooking Long Enough: For the most tender, fall-apart beef, make sure to cook the roast long enough—at least 8 hours on Low or 4 hours on High.
3. Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Make sure there’s enough space in the slow cooker for the beef to cook evenly. If your roast is too large for your slow cooker, consider cutting it into two pieces.
4. Not Shredding the Beef in the Juices: Once shredded, let the beef sit in the cooking juices for a few minutes to absorb more flavor. This keeps the beef moist and enhances the overall taste.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Italian Beef Sandwiches are hearty and flavorful on their own, but you can elevate the meal with the right sides and garnishes.

How to Serve Italian Beef Sandwiches

• With Dipping Sauce: Serve the sandwiches with a small bowl of the cooking juices (au jus) on the side for dipping. The flavorful broth adds another layer of deliciousness.
• Sides: Pair the sandwiches with crispy French fries, potato wedges, or a simple side salad to balance out the richness. Coleslaw, pickles, or a tangy Italian pasta salad are also great options.
• Toppings: In addition to giardiniera, you can add more pepperoncini peppers, sautéed onions, roasted bell peppers, or even a dollop of horseradish sauce for extra heat.

Presentation Ideas for Italian Beef Sandwiches

• Classic Chicago-Style: Serve the sandwiches on a classic hoagie roll with melted provolone cheese, topped with spicy giardiniera, and dunked in the au jus.
• Cheese Lover's Delight: For a cheesy variation, add an extra layer of provolone or mozzarella, broil the sandwiches until bubbly, and serve them open-faced with a garnish of fresh parsley or basil.
• Family-Style: Serve the shredded beef, hoagie rolls, and toppings buffet-style so everyone can build their own sandwiches just the way they like.

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Italian Beef Sandwich Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef a day ahead and reheat it in the slow cooker. The flavors only get better as they sit, making this dish perfect for meal prepping or parties.
• Freeze the Leftovers: Leftover beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply store the shredded beef with some of the juices in an airtight container, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Au Jus on the Side: If you love dipping your sandwich in au jus, reserve extra cooking liquid and strain it into a separate bowl. Serve it warm on the side for dipping.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?

Yes! To make this recipe in an Instant Pot, sear the beef using the Sauté function, then add the rest of the ingredients and cook on High Pressure for 60-70 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes before shredding the beef.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, while chuck roast is the best option for tenderness, you can also use top round roast, brisket, or even pork shoulder for a different flavor and texture.

What type of bread works best for Italian Beef Sandwiches?

Sturdy, crusty bread like hoagie rolls, French baguettes, or Italian sub rolls work best. You want a bread that can hold up to the juicy beef and toppings without getting too soggy.

Can I freeze the cooked beef?

Yes, you can freeze the shredded beef with some of the cooking juices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.

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Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches are the perfect mix of tender, juicy beef and bold Italian flavors, all packed into a crusty roll and topped with cheese and tangy giardiniera. With minimal prep and the help of your slow cooker, this recipe is both easy and incredibly satisfying—ideal for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy nights. Whether you’re enjoying them for dinner, at a tailgate, or for a party, these sandwiches are guaranteed to impress. So, grab your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to savor every bite of this classic comfort food!

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