19 Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich Recipe Try These Culinary Delights!
Published on: Mar 14, 2024
When it comes to iconic sandwiches, the Chicago Italian beef sandwich is one that stands out from the rest. Originating in the early 1900s, this sandwich has become a staple in Chicago cuisine and has gained popularity across the country. The combination of tender, thinly sliced beef, juicy peppers, and savory au jus sauce on a crusty roll creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. If you're ready to try your hand at making this beloved sandwich at home, follow this Chicago Italian beef sandwich recipe for a delicious and authentic taste of the Windy City.
The first on our list is a classic Chicago favorite - the Italian Beef Sandwich. This hearty sandwich is made with thinly sliced beef that has been slow-cooked in Italian seasoning and served on a crusty roll.
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Short on time? This Instant Pot version of the Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich will have dinner on the table in no time. The pressure cooker helps tenderize the beef and infuse it with the flavors of the Italian seasoning and peppers.
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Instant Pot Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Top Round Roast, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper
This recipe is inspired by the famous Chicago steakhouse owned by former Chicago Bears coach, Mike Ditka. The beef is marinated overnight in a flavorful blend of Italian herbs and spices before being slow-cooked to perfection.
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Ditka’s Italian Beef Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Rump Roast, Garlic, Kosher Salt, Freshly Ground Black
For a simpler take on the Italian Beef Sandwich, try this recipe that uses just a handful of ingredients but still packs a punch in flavor. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without too much effort.
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This recipe takes the classic Italian Beef Sandwich and gives it a Chicago twist. The addition of sweet bell peppers and Giardiniera (a spicy pickled vegetable mix) adds a burst of flavor and texture to the sandwich.
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Here’s another take on the Chicago Style Italian Beef Sandwich that uses a different cut of beef - flank steak. The result is a tender and flavorful sandwich that is perfect for feeding a crowd.
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This traditional Italian dish features thin slices of beef stuffed with a flavorful filling and then slow-cooked in a delicious tomato sauce. It may take a bit more effort, but the end result is well worth it.
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For a simpler version of the Chicago Style Italian Beef, this recipe uses just a handful of ingredients and can be made in the Instant Pot for a quick and easy dinner.
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This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you when you get home. The beef is slow-cooked in a flavorful Italian seasoning blend and served on crusty rolls for a satisfying meal.
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Crock pot Italian Beef Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Roast, Red Bell Pepper, Seasoning, Sandwiches, Butter
This slow cooker version of the Chicago Style Italian Beef Sandwich is a no-fuss recipe that requires minimal prep time. The result is tender and juicy beef that is perfect for piling on crusty rolls.
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Chicago Style Italian Beef Slow Cooker Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Boneless Beef Roast, Ground Black Pepper, Dried
This recipe takes a different approach to the Italian Beef Sandwich by using a beef chuck roast and cooking it in a flavorful broth until it is fall-apart tender. Serve it on a crusty roll for a satisfying meal.
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This sandwich is a twist on the classic Italian Beef, with the addition of hot pepper rings for extra flavor and a kick of heat. Serve it on a crusty roll for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Italian Hot Beef Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Prime Rib, Onion, Green Pepper, Mushrooms, Mozzarella
These homemade meatballs are a delicious addition to any Italian meal. Serve them on their own with a side of pasta, or make them into a meatball sub by placing them on a crusty roll and topping with marinara sauce and cheese.
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If you prefer your meatballs on the larger side, try this recipe that uses a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor. These great big meatballs are perfect for making into a meatball sub or serving with pasta.
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Italian Meatballs {Great Big Italian Meatballs}
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Egg, Fresh Bread Crumbs
This mouth-watering sandwich is loaded with juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal. Serve it on a crusty roll for a classic Italian sandwich.
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What Makes the Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich Unique?
The Chicago Italian beef sandwich is a sandwich like no other. What sets it apart from other sandwiches is the use of thinly sliced beef that is slow-roasted in flavorful herbs and spices, resulting in a tender and juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth. It is then piled onto a crusty Italian roll and topped with giardiniera, a mix of pickled vegetables, and sweet or hot peppers for an added kick of flavor. But what truly makes this sandwich stand out is the addition of the au jus sauce. This savory broth is made from the juices of the slow-cooked beef and is used for dipping or pouring over the sandwich, creating a delicious and messy eating experience.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Beef
One of the most important elements of a Chicago Italian beef sandwich is the beef itself. It is recommended to use a lean and tender cut of beef, such as top sirloin or eye of round. The beef is then seasoned with a blend of Italian herbs and spices, including oregano, thyme, and garlic. It is important to let the beef marinate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.
The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Beef
The key to achieving a perfectly cooked Chicago Italian beef sandwich is to cook the beef low and slow. This allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender. Once cooked, the beef can be thinly sliced, making it easier to pile onto the sandwich and creating a more enjoyable eating experience.
Giardiniera: The Perfect Topping
Giardiniera is a crucial component of a Chicago Italian beef sandwich. This pickled vegetable mix adds a tangy and slightly spicy element to the sandwich, balancing out the richness of the beef and au jus sauce. You can use either hot or sweet giardiniera, depending on your preference, or even a mix of both for a perfect combination of flavors.
Making the Au Jus Sauce
The au jus sauce is what ties the whole sandwich together. It is made from the juices of the slow-cooked beef, along with beef broth and additional herbs and spices. The key to a flavorful au jus sauce is to let it simmer and reduce for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify. This sauce can be poured over the sandwich or used for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
In conclusion, the Chicago Italian beef sandwich is a true masterpiece that combines simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a sandwich that is loved by many. With this Chicago Italian beef sandwich recipe, you can bring a taste of Chicago into your own kitchen and enjoy this iconic sandwich anytime you want. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of a Chicago Italian beef sandwich.
