Description

Dive into the flavors of Chicago with this Authentic Italian Beef Recipe! This legendary sandwich features tender, thinly sliced beef simmered in savory au jus, served on crusty Italian bread, and topped with tangy giardiniera or sweet peppers. Perfect for game day, parties, or a hearty dinner, this recipe captures the essence of Chicago street food in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef:

3 pounds beef chuck roast or top sirloin roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
4 cups beef broth
1 cup water
1 packet (1 oz) Italian dressing seasoning mix
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

For Serving:

6–8 Italian rolls or French bread, split and lightly toasted
1 cup giardiniera (Chicago-style pickled vegetables)
1 cup sautéed sweet bell peppers (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Preheat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil.
Season the beef roast with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. This locks in the flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth

In a slow cooker or large pot, combine beef broth, water, Italian dressing seasoning mix, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Place the seared beef in the broth mixture. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours (or on high for 4–5 hours) in a slow cooker, or simmer on the stovetop for 3–4 hours.
Once the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork, remove it from the broth and let it rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Slice and Simmer

Thinly slice the beef against the grain using a sharp knife. Return the sliced beef to the broth and let it simmer for an additional 20–30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Place a generous portion of the beef on a split Italian roll. Spoon some of the au jus over the beef for extra juiciness.
Top with giardiniera for a tangy, spicy kick, or sautéed bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.
Serve with a small bowl of the broth on the side for dipping, if desired.

Notes

For a true Chicago experience, “dip” the entire sandwich briefly into the au jus before serving.
You can make the beef and broth a day ahead for deeper flavor. Just store the beef and broth separately in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 hours (slow cooker) or 3–4 hours (stovetop)
Category: Comfort Food
Method: Slow Cooker or Stovetop
Cuisine: American (Chicago-style)

Nutrition

Calories: 450
Fat: 20
Carbohydrates: 25
Protein: 35