Simple Italian Beef Sandwiches for Beginners

If you’re craving a comforting and hearty sandwich with bold flavors, this Italian Beef Sandwich recipe is the perfect choice.

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Inspired by a Chicago classic, it features juicy, tender beef that’s slow-cooked with a medley of herbs and spices, then piled high on toasted sub rolls and topped with roasted peppers and tangy giardiniera.

With every bite, you’ll experience a delicious blend of savory, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors.

Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or a weekend lunch, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 3 lbs. boneless beef chuck roast
• 5 tsp. kosher salt, divided
• 2 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. onion powder
• 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 5 cups low-sodium beef broth, divided
• 1 green bell pepper, deseeded and cut into 1-inch strips
• 2 cups chopped giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables)
• 4 French sub rolls, toasted (seeded or unseeded)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over high heat until it starts to shimmer and smoke slightly.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

• Season your beef roast with 4 teaspoons of salt and 2 teaspoons of black pepper.
• Place it in the hot pot and sear for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it’s nicely browned.
• Remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

• Reduce the heat to medium.
• Add the sliced onions and garlic to the pot, seasoning them with 1/2 teaspoon salt.
• Stir frequently and cook for around 5 minutes, or until the onions soften.
• Stir in Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.
• Cook for 1 minute, until the spices are fragrant and the liquid has mostly evaporated.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

• Pour in 1/2 cup of the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate all the flavor.

Step 5: Braise the Beef

• Return the beef and any juices from the plate back to the pot.
• Add the remaining 4 cups of broth, making sure the beef is partially submerged.
• Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender

• Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the oven.
• Bake for 1 hour, then carefully flip the roast.
• Continue baking for another hour, then uncover, flip again, and bake for 30 minutes more.
• Flip the roast one final time and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the meat is very tender and shreds easily with a fork.

Step 7: Shred the Beef

• Remove the beef from the pot and place it in a large bowl.
• Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat using two forks or your hands.
• Return the shredded beef to the pot, mixing it with the cooking liquid (au jus) to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Step 8: Roast the Peppers

• Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Toss the green bell pepper strips with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
• Spread them on the baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, or until they are slightly charred and tender.

Step 9: Prepare the Giardiniera

• In a small bowl, mix the chopped giardiniera with the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil until well combined.

Step 10: Assemble the Sandwiches

• To build your sandwiches, fill each toasted sub roll with a generous portion of shredded beef.
• Top with roasted bell peppers and a spoonful of the giardiniera mixture.
• Serve immediately with the remaining au jus for dipping.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker for this recipe! Follow steps 1-3 in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the broth, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender and shreds easily.

What is giardiniera, and where can I find it?

Giardiniera is a mix of pickled vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, celery, and peppers, often with a bit of spice. You can find it in most grocery stores near the pickles and olives or in the Italian food section.