Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches
This slow cooker Italian beef recipe is a quick-prep, high-flavor dinner that delivers classic deli-style taste with only four simple ingredients. Inspired by the famous beef sandwiches popular around entity city, Chicago, illinois us, this version uses tender chuck roast and tangy giardiniera to create juicy, shredded beef that’s perfect for piling onto rolls.
If you’re looking for an easy crockpot beef sandwich, a dump-and-go slow cooker recipe, or a crowd-pleasing game day meal, this one checks every box.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Italian Beef:
Only 4 ingredients minimal shopping & prep
True set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker dinner
Makes tender shredded beef every time
Packed with bold, tangy, peppery flavor
Perfect for sandwich night, parties, and meal prep
Budget-friendly cut of beef turns ultra juicy
Feeds a crowd with very little effort
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
3 to 3½ pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed
1 (16-oz) jar giardiniera (mild or hot), with brine
1 packet dry Italian dressing mix (or Italian seasoning blend)
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
Directions:
Place the chuck roast in the slow cooker (cut into large chunks if very thick for even cooking).
Sprinkle the Italian dressing mix evenly over all sides of the beef.
Pour the entire jar of giardiniera vegetables and brine over the roast.
Add beef broth around the sides to create cooking liquid.
Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until fork-tender.
Remove beef and shred with two forks, discarding large fat pieces.
Skim excess fat from the liquid if desired. Return shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix with the juices and vegetables.
Let it sit on WARM 20–30 minutes so the meat absorbs more flavor.
Serving Ideas:
Serve this crockpot Italian beef:
On toasted hoagie or Italian rolls
Dipped in extra cooking juices (classic style)
Topped with provolone or mozzarella
With extra giardiniera for heat and crunch
Alongside oven fries, roasted potatoes, or salad
Variations for More Traffic + Value
Milder flavor: Use mild giardiniera + extra broth
Spicy Italian beef: Add hot giardiniera or chili flakes
Lower sodium: Use unsalted broth and homemade seasoning
Make-ahead option: Chill overnight, remove solid fat, reheat in juices
