Tender Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches: A Simple Weeknight Dinner Recipe

Easy Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwich Recipe

Italian beef is a classic crowd-pleaser that delivers melt-in-your-mouth, juicy shredded beef every time you fire up your slow cooker for a hearty sandwich or comforting dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Beef Recipe

Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, shredded roast bathed in a zesty blend of Italian seasonings—perfect for making sandwiches, topping tacos, or serving over rice. This slow cooker italian beef recipe guarantees fork-tender, juicy results with minimal effort. It’s the ultimate comfort food hack for busy weeknights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients for Tender Italian Beef

• 3 lbs beef chuck roast (trimmed of excess fat)
• 3 cups water
• 1 (1 oz) package Italian salad dressing mix
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp onion salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 10 hoagie rolls or slider buns, for serving
• Optional: sliced provolone cheese, Giardiniera peppers, chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Italian Beef

1. Mix the broth: In a medium saucepan, combine water, Italian seasoning mix, oregano, basil, parsley, onion salt, garlic powder, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, stirring until well blended.
2. Prep the roast: Place the chuck roast in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the hot seasoned broth over the meat, ensuring it’s mostly submerged.
3. Slow cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds.
4. Shred and soak: Remove the roast, shred with two forks, and return the beef to the slow cooker. Let it soak in the juices for 10 more minutes.
5. Build your sandwiches: Pile warm, juicy beef onto rolls. Top with provolone cheese, Giardiniera peppers, or your favorite sandwich fixings for an extra flavor boost.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Cheesy twist: Add a slice of provolone or mozzarella to melt over hot beef.
• Spice level: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.
• Mega-flavor boost: Swap water for beef broth or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
• Meal prep hack: Store shredded beef and au jus separately; reheat together for ultimate juiciness.

Start serving these sandwiches tonight and enjoy your italian beef masterpiece!