Ingredients
- Beef:
- 3–4 lb chuck roast or top round
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Au Jus:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup pepperoncini brine (from a jar of pepperoncini)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2–3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 bay leaf
- Other:
- Crusty Italian rolls or French bread
- Giardiniera (pickled Italian vegetables) or sweet roasted peppers (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef roast on all sides until browned.
- Season the Beef: Combine oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the seared beef.
- Make the Au Jus: Add beef broth, pepperoncini brine, Italian seasoning, smashed garlic, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
- Slow Cook: Cover the pot and cook in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
- Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the pot and let it rest for 15 minutes. Shred the beef against the grain using two forks.
- Strain the Au Jus: Strain the cooking liquid (au jus) through a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice the Italian rolls or French bread. Dip the bread in the au jus (for a “dipped” sandwich), or ladle au jus over the shredded beef once it’s on the bread (for a “wet” sandwich). Top with giardiniera or sweet peppers, if desired.
Notes
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the beef overnight in the dry rub.
- The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the roast. The beef should be easily shredded with a fork.
- You can use a slow cooker instead of the oven. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Leftover au jus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later use
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Main Dish/Sandwiches
- Method: Braising/Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American (Chicago Italian-American)
Keywords: Italian beef, Chicago Italian beef, beef sandwich, au jus, giardiniera, slow cooker, braised beef