Italian Beef at Home: Chicago’s Iconic Sandwich for Less

The Italian beef sandwich is a Chicago institution. It’s a messy, delicious, and uniquely Chicagoan creation that’s beloved by locals and visitors alike. But you don’t have to go to a fancy sandwich shop to enjoy this iconic sandwich. With this recipe, you can make an authentic and delicious Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich at home for a fraction of the price.

The Recipe

This recipe uses a slow cooker to create a tender and flavorful beef that’s perfect for sandwiches.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 (3-4 lb) chuck roast
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup Italian dressing
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Italian rolls
  • Sweet peppers, hot giardiniera, and mozzarella cheese for topping

• Instructions:

  1. Place the chuck roast in a slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the beef broth, Italian dressing, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the roast.
  3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours.
  4. Once the beef is tender, shred it with two forks.
  5. To assemble the sandwiches, pile the shredded beef on an Italian roll and top with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips

• Slice it Thin: For the most authentic Italian beef experience, slice the beef as thinly as possible.
• The Dip: The key to a great Italian beef sandwich is the “gravy” (the seasoned beef broth). You can either dip the entire sandwich in the gravy for a “wet” sandwich, or you can spoon a little bit of the gravy over the meat for a “juicy” sandwich.
• Order Like a Pro: If you’re ordering an Italian beef sandwich in Chicago, you’ll want to know the lingo. “Hot” means with hot giardiniera, “sweet” means with sweet peppers, and “dipped” means the entire sandwich is dipped in the gravy.

With this recipe, you can enjoy a taste of Chicago in your own home. So gather your ingredients, fire up the slow cooker, and get ready for a delicious and authentic Italian beef sandwich.