Description
These Italian Beef Sandwiches feature tender, slow-cooked chuck roast infused with aromatic herbs and Italian dressing mix, served on toasted hoagie rolls with optional giardiniera and melted cheese for a flavorful, hearty meal perfect for gatherings or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Seasonings
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix (about 1 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers with juice
For Serving
- 6 hoagie rolls or sandwich buns
- 1 cup giardiniera (optional, for topping)
- 6 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat and Sear: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef roast with salt and black pepper. Sear the beef on all sides until nicely browned to develop a rich crust and enhance flavor.
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker. Add dried oregano, basil, onion powder, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), Italian dressing mix, beef broth, and pepperoncini peppers with their juice around and over the roast.
- Slow Cook the Beef: Cover the slow cooker and cook the beef on the low setting for 8 hours, or until the meat is very tender and shreds easily with forks.
- Shred and Soak: Using two forks, shred the beef directly in the slow cooker. Stir it back into the juices to soak up all the flavorful broth. Allow it to sit on the warm setting for an additional 15 to 30 minutes to absorb more flavor.
- Prepare Rolls and Assemble: Toast the hoagie rolls if desired for added texture. Fill each roll generously with the shredded beef mixture. Top with giardiniera and/or slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese if you like.
- Serve: Serve the sandwiches hot, with extra juice (au jus) on the side for dipping to enhance every bite.
Notes
- For added spice, include the optional crushed red pepper flakes.
- Giardiniera adds a tangy, spicy crunch, but can be omitted if preferred.
- Cheese can be melted over the beef under a broiler for a warm, gooey topping.
- Use pepperoncini juice to add acidity and depth to the slow cooker broth.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
