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Authentic Chicago Italian Beef

Authentic Chicago Italian Beef: Juicy & Legendary Sandwich


  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Authentic Chicago Italian Beef recipe features slow-cooked, ultra-tender beef simmered in a deeply seasoned au jus, then piled onto crusty rolls with peppers. Juicy, messy, and packed with bold flavor, it delivers classic Chicago sandwich-shop taste right at home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.41.8 kg beef chuck roast or top round
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Italian sandwich rolls
  • Giardiniera (mild or hot)
  • Roasted green bell peppers, sliced

Instructions

  1. Pat beef dry and rub with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, black pepper, and salt. Rest for 15 minutes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven and sear beef on all sides until deeply browned.
  3. Add garlic, beef broth, water, and red pepper flakes. Scrape up browned bits.
  4. Cover and simmer on low for 3–4 hours, turning occasionally, until very tender.
  5. Remove beef, rest briefly, then slice thinly or shred. Return to broth and simmer 20–30 minutes.
  6. Pile beef onto rolls, spoon over au jus, and top with peppers or giardiniera.

Notes

  • Adjust seasoning according to taste.
  • Let the beef rest before slicing for easier handling.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Chicago Italian Beef, Italian Sandwich, Slow Cooked Beef