Chicago Italian beef is an iconic sandwich that’s rich in flavor, packed with tender slow-cooked beef, and dripping with a savory, spice-infused au jus. Whether you’re a Chicago native or simply a food lover, this homemade Italian beef recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the Windy City.
What Is a Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich?
Chicago Italian beef is a legendary sandwich that originated in the 1930s and has since become a staple in Chicago’s food scene. It consists of thinly sliced, slow-roasted beef soaked in flavorful au jus, piled onto a sturdy French roll, and topped with either sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicago Italian Beef
To make an authentic Italian beef sandwich at home, you’ll need the right combination of seasonings, a high-quality cut of beef, and fresh bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
For the Beef:
- 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast or top sirloin
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sandwich:
- 6 French rolls or Italian sandwich rolls
- 1 cup hot giardiniera (for spicy lovers)
- 2 bell peppers (green, red, or both), sliced and sautéed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing peppers)
How to Make Chicago Italian Beef
1. Prepare the Beef
- Season the Beef: Pat the beef roast dry and rub it with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Sear the Meat: Heat a large Dutch oven or slow cooker on high and sear the beef for 3–4 minutes per side until browned.
- Sauté Onions & Garlic: Remove the beef and set it aside. Add sliced onions and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened and fragrant.
2. Slow Cook the Beef
- Create the Au Jus: Pour beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and spices into the pot. Stir to combine.
- Slow Cook: Return the beef to the pot, cover, and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender.
- Shred the Beef: Remove the beef, let it rest for 10 minutes, then shred or slice it paper-thin.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
- Toast the Rolls: Lightly toast the French rolls to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Dip the Beef in Au Jus: Dip the sliced beef into the flavorful broth before loading it onto the roll.
- Add Toppings: Top with spicy giardiniera or sautéed bell peppers.
4. Dip or Drench (Chicago Style!)
- “Dry” Style: Minimal au jus for a cleaner eating experience.
- “Wet” Style: Spoon extra au jus over the sandwich.
- “Dipped” Style: Fully submerge the sandwich in the au jus for an authentic, messy, flavor-packed bite!
Tips for the Best Italian Beef
✔ Use the Right Bread: A sturdy French roll holds up best against the juicy beef. Avoid soft bread that will fall apart.
✔ Slice Beef Paper-Thin: Traditional Chicago Italian beef is sliced razor-thin. A meat slicer works best, but a sharp knife and patience will do.
✔ Let the Meat Rest: Allow the beef to rest before slicing to retain its juices.
✔ Adjust the Spice Level: Love heat? Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a spicier giardiniera.
✔ Make It Ahead: Italian beef tastes even better the next day after sitting in the au jus overnight!
How to Store & Reheat
Refrigerator: Store shredded beef in its au jus in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions with some au jus for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm the beef and au jus on the stovetop over low heat, or microwave in short bursts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Difference Between Italian Beef and a Philly Cheesesteak?
Italian beef is slow-cooked in a flavorful broth and served on a roll, often with peppers or giardiniera. A Philly cheesesteak is griddled steak with cheese, typically served with onions.
Can I Use a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes! A slow cooker works perfectly—just cook on low for 8–10 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the “Pressure Cook” setting on high for 60 minutes, followed by a natural release.
What’s the Best Cut of Beef for Italian Beef?
Top sirloin, chuck roast, or bottom round roast all work well. The key is slow-cooking to achieve tender, juicy meat.
Final Thoughts
Making Chicago Italian beef at home is easier than you think, and the results are just as delicious as what you’d get in the heart of the city. With tender, juicy beef and a bold, flavorful au jus, this sandwich is pure comfort food. Whether you prefer it dry, wet, or dipped, one thing’s for sure—you won’t be able to stop at just one!
Try this recipe today and bring the authentic taste of Chicago right to your kitchen!
