Italian Beef Sandwich Recipe | Classic Chicago-Style with Au Jus & Giardiniera

A classic Chicago-style sandwich featuring thinly sliced seasoned roast beef, slow-simmered in rich au jus, and served on a toasted Italian roll with giardiniera or sweet peppers.

The Italian Beef Sandwich is a Chicago favorite, known for its juicy, flavorful roast beef, dipped in savory au jus and topped with spicy giardiniera or sweet peppers. It’s a perfect combination of tender meat, bold seasoning, and crunchy toppings.

Ingredients

For the Roast Beef:

• 3 lbs beef top round or chuck roast
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp dried basil
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder

For the Au Jus (Dipping Broth):

• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf

For the Sandwiches:

• 6 Italian-style rolls (crusty and sturdy, like Turano or Gonnella brand)
• 1 cup spicy giardiniera (Chicago-style pickled vegetables)
• 1 cup sautéed sweet bell peppers (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Roast Beef

1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Rub the beef with olive oil, then season all over with oregano, basil, black pepper, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
3. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, sear the beef on medium-high heat for about 3 minutes per side, until browned.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, then pour in beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, red wine vinegar, sugar, thyme, and bay leaf.
5. Cover and roast for 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 2: Slice the Beef

1. Remove the beef from the pot and let it rest for 15 minutes.
2. Slice as thinly as possible against the grain (use a sharp knife or deli slicer for best results).

Step 3: Simmer the Beef in Au Jus

1. Strain the au jus broth and discard the bay leaf.
2. Return the sliced beef to the pot and let it simmer in the au jus for 15-20 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Slice the Italian rolls and lightly toast them.
2. Load each roll with thinly sliced beef, making sure to scoop up some au jus-soaked meat.
3. Top with spicy giardiniera or sautéed sweet peppers for extra flavor.
4. Dip or drench: For an authentic “wet” sandwich, dip the entire sandwich into the au jus before serving.

Serving Suggestions

🥪 Classic Style: Serve with a side of extra au jus for dipping.
🌶 Extra Heat: Add extra giardiniera for a spicy kick.
🧀 Cheesy Twist: Melt provolone cheese on top for a beef-and-cheese version.

Enjoy your homemade Chicago-Style Italian Beef Sandwich—a true Windy City classic! 🥪🔥