Italian Beef Sandwiches

Italian Beef Sandwiches are a delicious and hearty dish that brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to your meal. Originating from Chicago, this sandwich features tender, shredded beef soaked in Italian spices and topped with tangy banana peppers and melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a game day snack, these sandwiches are sure to please everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s easy to make in a slow cooker, allowing you to prep it in the morning and come home to a delicious meal. The flavors meld beautifully as the beef cooks slowly, and it’s a great way to use a chuck roast. Plus, serving it on sandwich rolls with cheese and peppers makes it a fun and interactive meal everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Italian Beef Sandwiches

Making Italian Beef Sandwiches is simple and straightforward. Here’s what you need and how to do it.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pound chuck roast
• 2 packets Italian dressing seasoning (see notes)
• 16 ounces mild banana peppers (from a jar)
• 8 sandwich rolls
• 16 slices provolone cheese
• Extra banana peppers (for serving)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chuck roast, Italian dressing seasoning, and banana peppers (with juice) into a slow cooker.
2. Cook the Beef: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The meat is done when it is tender and can be easily shredded. If it’s still tough, continue cooking until it becomes tender.
3. Shred the Meat: Once the beef is done, use two forks to shred the meat right in the slow cooker.
4. Serve the Sandwiches: Take some of the juice from the crockpot and put it into small bowls for dipping. Place the shredded beef onto the sandwich rolls.
5. Add the Toppings: Top each sandwich with slices of provolone cheese and extra banana peppers, if desired.

How to Serve Italian Beef Sandwiches

Serve these sandwiches hot and ready to eat. Offer bowls of the cooking juice for dipping, which adds extra flavor. You can also provide a side of chips, pickles, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Italian Beef Sandwiches

If you have leftovers, store the shredded beef separately from the sandwich rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef in the microwave or on the stove before making new sandwiches. If you wish to freeze any leftovers, store the meat in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Italian Beef Sandwiches

• Trim excess fat from the chuck roast for a leaner sandwich.
• Don’t skip the banana pepper juice! It adds a nice tang and flavor to the beef.
• If you like your sandwiches spicy, try using hot banana peppers instead of mild.
• You can add sautéed onions and bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Variation (If Any)

For a different twist, you can substitute the provolone cheese with mozzarella or even a spicy pepper jack cheese. If you want a lighter option, serve the shredded beef over a salad instead of in a sandwich.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
   Yes, you can use brisket or round roast, but chuck roast is the most common and flavorful choice.

2. What can I serve with Italian Beef Sandwiches?
   They go well with potato chips, coleslaw, or even a light pasta salad.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes! Cook the beef the day before, and simply reheat it when you are ready to serve.

4. Is this recipe spicy?
   The recipe is mild, but using hot banana peppers will give it some heat if you prefer.