Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Italian Beef

Italian Beef Sandwiches

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Elizabeth Rider
  • Prep Time: 10 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 5-7 Hours
  • Total Time: 7 Hours+ (Varies)
  • Yield: 8 Sandwiches
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Braise / Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Italian Beef Sandwich Recipe is juicy, tender, and packed with bold flavor from pepperoncini, giardiniera, and Italian spices. Made in the slow cooker for easy, hands-off cooking, it’s the ultimate comfort food for cozy nights or casual gatherings. Serve on crusty rolls with melty provolone for a crave-worthy sandwich that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. This recipe makes 6–8 sandwiches (depending on size of buns and portion)


Ingredients

Units
  • 3-4 lb chuck roast (up to 5 lbs)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, plus 1/4 cup of the brine (juice) from the jar
  • 2 heaping tablespoons giardiniera, plus more for serving
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1 teaspoon granulated onion
  • 1 Tablespoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Sandwich buns, for serving
  • Provolone slices, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the beef: Trim excess fat and cut roast into chunks if desired. (Cutting the roast into 4 large chunks helps if cook faster.) Place in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. (Optional) Sear: For extra flavor, sear the beef on all sides in a hot skillet with avocado oil. Then transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. Season & add liquids: Sprinkle beef with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic, and onion. Pour beef broth over. Top with pepperoncini, brine, and giardiniera.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on high for 5–6 hours (or 7–8 if whole) or on low for 7–8 hours (up to 9 hours if whole), until beef shreds easily.
  5. Shred: Shred the beef right in the slow cooker and mix to soak up all the juices.
  6. Assemble sandwiches: Toast sandwich buns and melt a slice of provolone on each. Pile on the shredded beef, add extra giardiniera or pepperoncini if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate leftover Italian beef in an airtight container for up to 4 days.