Name: Italian Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-484998H25M27S
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 pounds chuck roast or top round beef; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup pepperoncini peppers with juice; 6-8 hoagie or Italian rolls; Giardiniera (optional, for topping); Sweet bell peppers, sliced and sautéed (optional, for topping)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Beef recipe is perfect for anyone who loves tender, flavorful meat with a bit of a spicy, tangy kick. It’s great for feeding a crowd, ideal for game day, or simply when you’re craving a hearty, comforting sandwich. Plus, you can make it ahead of time and it only gets better as it soaks in the flavorful broth. The recipe is also highly customizable, so you can adjust the spice level and toppings to your liking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chuck roast or top round beef
Beef broth
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Oregano
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Pepperoncini peppers with juice
Hoagie or Italian rolls
Giardiniera (optional for topping)
Sweet bell peppers (optional for topping)

Directions

Season the beef roast generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Place the beef in a slow cooker or a large Dutch oven.
Add beef broth and some pepperoncini peppers with a bit of their juice.
Cook on low for 8–10 hours (or in a 300°F oven for about 3 hours) until the beef is very tender and easily shreds.
Remove the beef from the broth, shred it with two forks, and return it to the juices to soak.
Lightly toast the rolls if desired.
Load the rolls with the juicy beef and top with giardiniera or sautéed sweet peppers if using.
Serve with extra broth (au jus) on the side or dip the entire sandwich for an authentic “wet” version.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 servings and takes approximately 8–10 hours to cook in a slow cooker or about 3 hours in the oven, with about 20 minutes of prep time.

Variations

Spicy Version: Use extra red pepper flakes and spicy giardiniera for a fiery kick.
Cheesy Version: Add provolone or mozzarella cheese on top before serving.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the beef in a bowl with broth instead of in bread.
Short-Cut Version: Use deli-sliced roast beef simmered quickly in seasoned broth for a faster version.
Vegetable-Heavy: Load up with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms along with the beef.

storage/reheating

Store the beef and broth together in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, making sure to keep the beef in the broth to maintain its juiciness. You can also freeze the meat and broth for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What cut of meat is best for Italian Beef?

Chuck roast or top round are ideal cuts because they become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.

Can I make Italian Beef in advance?

Yes, it actually tastes even better after sitting in the broth overnight.

Do I have to use giardiniera?

No, but giardiniera adds a tangy, spicy crunch that complements the rich beef beautifully.

How do I make it less spicy?

Skip the red pepper flakes and use mild giardiniera or just sweet peppers.

Can I cook Italian Beef in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for about 90 minutes with a natural release.

What’s the difference between “dry” and “wet” sandwiches?

A “dry” sandwich has the beef drained of most broth; a “wet” sandwich is dipped in the au jus before serving.

How can I thicken the broth?

For a thicker broth, you can simmer it on the stovetop uncovered for a few minutes after removing the beef.

What kind of bread is best?

Hearty, sturdy Italian rolls or hoagie rolls work best to hold up to the juicy beef.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, provolone or mozzarella cheese melts beautifully over the hot beef.

Is it necessary to toast the bread?

Toasting is optional but helps prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.

Conclusion

Italian Beef is the ultimate comfort food, offering tender, flavorful meat soaked in delicious broth and packed into a hearty roll. Whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or traditional, this recipe is flexible enough to satisfy any craving. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or casual weekends, Italian Beef is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.