chicago italian beef sandwich recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
chicago italian beef sandwich recipe
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The Best chicago italian beef sandwich recipe

I have been making this Chicago Italian beef sandwich recipe for years and it is always a hit with my family. The slow cooked beef is so tender and full of flavor, and the giardiniera adds the perfect kick. My kids love when I make these for dinner because they can build their own sandwiches. It is also a great meal for game day or a casual get together with friends. The beef is a good source of protein and iron, and using lean cuts keeps it relatively healthy.

This recipe is all about that savory, juicy beef. You season a chuck roast with Italian spices and roast it low and slow until it shreds easily. Then you slice it thin and pile it high on a sturdy roll. The key is to dip the whole sandwich in the cooking juices, or au jus, for that classic wet Chicago style. It is messy but so worth it. I always serve it with extra hot giardiniera on the side for anyone who wants more spice.

Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich

Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich

4.7 from 689 votes

A classic Chicago Italian beef sandwich with tender, slow roasted beef, savory au jus, and spicy giardiniera. This recipe is easy to make at home and perfect for a hearty meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef

3-4 pound chuck roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
4 cups beef broth
1 cup water
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Sandwiches

8 Italian rolls or hoagie buns
1 cup giardiniera, drained
Provolone cheese slices (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.
2Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the roast.
3In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Rub this spice mixture all over the roast.
4Place the roast in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven. Pour the beef broth, water, and Worcestershire sauce around the roast. Cover tightly with foil or a lid.
5Roast for 3.5 to 4 hours, or until the meat is very tender and shreds easily with a fork. The internal temperature should be at least 190 degrees F.
6Remove the roast from the pan and let it rest for 15 minutes. Strain the cooking liquid through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl. This is your au jus.
7Slice the beef as thin as possible using a sharp knife or electric knife. Return the sliced beef to the au jus.
8To assemble the sandwiches, split the rolls and place them on a baking sheet. If using provolone, place a slice on each roll. Toast the rolls under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
9Using tongs, pile a generous amount of the beef onto each roll. Top with giardiniera. Serve with a small bowl of the warm au jus for dipping.

🔧Equipment

Large roasting pan or Dutch oven
Aluminum foil
Meat thermometer
Sharp knife or electric knife
Large bowl
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a sliced onion and a few cloves of garlic to the roasting pan. The beef can be made a day ahead and refrigerated in the au jus. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Watch Video Of How Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich Works

This Chicago Italian beef sandwich recipe is one of my favorites because it is so simple to put together but tastes like something from a real deli. It always gets rave reviews from my family and friends, and it is perfect for any occasion from a weeknight dinner to a big game day party. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as we do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich

1. What cut of beef is best for Italian beef sandwiches?

Chuck roast is the best choice. It has great flavor and becomes very tender when slow cooked. You can also use bottom round or sirloin tip, but chuck is my go to.

2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, absolutely. Follow the same steps for seasoning and searing the meat, then place it in a slow cooker with the broth and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or high for 5 to 6 hours until tender.

3. What is giardiniera and can I skip it?

Giardiniera is a pickled vegetable relish, usually made with carrots, celery, and peppers. It adds a tangy, spicy crunch that is essential to a true Chicago Italian beef. You can skip it, but the sandwich wont have that classic flavor.

4. How do I get the beef super thin like the deli?

The key is to let the meat rest and then use a very sharp knife. An electric knife works great too. For the best results, you can chill the cooked roast for an hour in the fridge to firm it up, which makes slicing much easier.

5. Can I freeze the leftover beef?

Yes, this freezes well. Store the sliced beef in an airtight container with enough au jus to cover it. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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