Description

Italian beef sandwiches are a classic comfort food, but making them at home can often seem like a daunting task. With this Slow Cooker Italian Beef recipe, you can achieve tender, juicy beef that’s packed with rich, savory flavors—all without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the beef to marinate in a delicious blend of Italian herbs and spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual get-together, this dish is versatile enough to serve in sandwiches or alongside your favorite sides

Ingredients

• 3-4 lb beef chuck roast
• 1 packet Italian dressing mix
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 jar (16 oz) pepperoncini peppers, drained and sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 8 hoagie rolls or sandwich buns
• Provolone cheese (optional, for serving)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Season the Roast: Start by seasoning your chuck roast with the Italian dressing mix, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Rub the spices all over the beef to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat during the slow cooking process.

Place in Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chuck roast into the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Liquid and Vegetables
Add the Liquid: Pour the beef broth and water over the roast, ensuring the meat is submerged in the liquid. This will help keep the beef moist as it cooks and develop a rich broth.

Add the Vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and sliced pepperoncini to the slow cooker. These vegetables will cook alongside the beef, infusing the dish with additional flavor and creating a savory, slightly tangy broth.

Step 3: Cook the Beef
Slow Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and can be easily shredded. The longer the beef cooks, the more tender it will become, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Shred the Beef
Shred the Meat: Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Return to the Slow Cooker: After shredding, return the beef to the slow cooker and stir it into the flavorful broth and vegetables. Let it sit in the slow cooker for an additional 20-30 minutes on warm to allow the beef to absorb even more of the savory juices.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Prepare the Rolls: Toast the hoagie rolls or sandwich buns under the broiler for a few minutes until lightly golden and crispy.

Assemble: Pile the shredded Italian beef onto the toasted rolls, spooning some of the juicy vegetables and broth over the top for added flavor. If desired, top with provolone cheese and place the sandwiches under the broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve Hot: Serve the Italian beef sandwiches hot, with the option to dip them into the remaining broth (au jus) from the slow cooker for an extra burst of flavor

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips:
Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, leave some of the seeds from the pepperoncini peppers or add extra crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Prep in Advance: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook the beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef in the slow cooker or on the stovetop with some of the reserved broth.

Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: Provolone, mozzarella, or even pepper jack cheese can be added to the sandwiches for a gooey, melted finish.

Freeze Leftovers: Leftover Italian beef freezes well. Simply store the shredded beef in an airtight container with some broth to keep it moist. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat.

Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Italian Beef is a must-try for anyone who loves tender, flavorful beef sandwiches. The slow cooking process ensures the beef absorbs all the savory spices and tangy pepperoncini, making each bite juicy and packed with flavor. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these sandwiches are guaranteed to impress. Plus, with the convenience of the slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without the hassle of constant monitoring. Enjoy this simple, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!