Few dishes are as deeply embedded in Chicago’s food culture as the Italian Beef Sandwich. This iconic dish, rooted in Italian-American history, features slow-roasted beef soaked in a flavorful au jus and served on a crusty roll with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a game-day treat, this homemade Italian Beef recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients for Authentic Italian Beef

To achieve the best flavors, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients. Below is a comprehensive list:

For the beef:

3-4 pounds boneless chuck roast or top sirloin

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon salt

1 tablespoon black pepper

1 teaspoon optional crushed red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon onion powder

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon sugar

For the Au Jus (gravy):

4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)

1 cup water

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 bay leaf.

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon black pepper

For serving:

Crusty Italian roll or French bread

Sweet bell pepper (roasted or fried)

Spicy giardiniera (Chicago-style pickled vegetables)

Melt provolone cheese (optional)

Step-by-step instructions for making Italian beef

Prepare the beef.

Start by trimming the excess fat from your chuck roast or sirloin. Pat the meat dry using paper towels. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until it forms a deep brown crust. This step locks in the flavors.

Make the flavorful Au Jus

When the beef is browned, remove it and set aside. Within the same pot, add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, beef broth, water, and spices. Scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the saucepan and bring to a boil. These bits are key to the rich flavor of the au jus.

Slow cook the beef.

Make sure the meat is well submerged in the liquid before adding it back to the saucepan.. Cover with a lid and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and shreddable. You can also use a slow cooker on LOW for 8-10 hours for even better results.

Shred the beef.

Once the beef is fork-tender, remove from the pot and shred it into thin strips using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the au jus, allowing the flavors to soak in for another 30 minutes.

Roast or grill the peppers.

While the beef is resting, prepare the sweet bell peppers by cutting them into strips and roasting them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil until tender.

Assemble the Italian Beef Sandwich.

To assemble the sandwich, slice Italian rolls or French bread lengthwise. Pile a generous amount of Italian beef on the roll, and ladle some au jus over the top. Top with roasted sweet peppers and spicy giardiniera for an authentic Chicago-style flavor.

Dipping Options

For an extra juicy sandwich, serve with a side of au jus for dipping. Some people prefer to “wet” their sandwich by completely submerging the entire sandwich in the flavorful broth before serving.

Tips for the Best Italian Beef

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

The best cuts for Italian beef are chuck roast or top sirloin, as they have the right balance of fat and lean meat, ensuring tenderness and flavor.

Slow cooking is key.

For the most tender Italian beef, cook the meat on the stovetop for at least 3-4 hours or in a slow cooker for 8-10 hours.

Don’t Skip the Au Jus.

The au jus (gravy) is what really makes Italian beef stand out. Make sure you season it well and let the meat soak in it after you slice it.

Bread Matters

Use authentic Italian rolls or crusty French bread that can hold up against the juicy beef and au jus.

Customize with Cheese

For a savory variation, top the sandwich with melted provolone cheese or mozzarella.

Serving Tips

Italian beef sandwiches are best served with classic Chicago-style sides:

French fries or onion rings

Potato salad or coleslaw

Pickle spears.

Classic Italian Pasta Salad

Storing and Reheating Italian Beef

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Italian beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For best results, keep the au jus separate.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, place the shredded beef in a freezer-safe bag with some of the au jus. It will last up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if necessary. The risotto can also be microwaved in 30-second increments while stirring.

Final Thoughts

Making authentic beef at home is easier than you think. With simple ingredients, slow cooking, and flavorful au jus, you’ll have a sandwich that rivals Chicago’s finest eateries. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or game day, this recipe delivers on flavor and tradition.

FAQs About Italian Beef Recipe?