Italian Beef Sandwichesare tender, cheesy, and slightly spicy for a delicious meal that’s quick and easy! This simple sandwich recipe is perfect for picnics, a busy weeknight, or a party!

top view of Italian Beef Sandwiches topped with melted cheese

It is easy to think of the crock pot as more of a winter tool. But don’t be afraid to bust it out for warmer weather too.It’s so easy to put something in the crock pot and then forget about it until dinner. Italian beef sandwiches are a great meal if you are going to be gone all day or if you have a busy evening andwon’t have much timeto prep in the kitchen.

I love that this is made in the crockpot! No need to turn on the oven and it practically makes itself. Just dump all for the ingredients and let it cook. Sides are easy too… corn on the cob,quick refrigerator pickles, or watermelon are perfect for this quick and easy meal.

cooked and shredded Italian Beef meat in a slow cooker

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal Effort: With the use of a slow cooker, this recipe requires minimal hands-on time. Just set it and forget it until it’s time to assemble the sandwiches.
Customizable Heat Level: You can adjust the spiciness of the dish by adding more or fewer pepperoncini.
Easy to Pair: These sandwiches pair well with lots of sides, such ascoleslaw,potato salad, or a simple greensalad.

Ingredients

Beef Roast:buy whatever is on sale – chuck, rump roast, etc.
Pepperoncinis:deli sliced or whole
Beef Broth
Salt and Pepper
Sandwich Buns
Your Favorite White Cheese:Mozzarella, Provolone, Swiss, or White Cheddar
Optional: extra pepperoncinis for serving

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities

Overhead view of five Italian Beef Sandwiches on a baking sheet.

How to Make Italian Beef Sandwiches

Step #1.Trim any visible fat from the roast then place it in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt and pepper then add half the jar of pepperonicini. Pour in the beef broth.

Step #3.Shred the meat with two forks and remove any fatty pieces. Slice the pepper and stir into the beef.

Step #2.Cook on low 7-8 hours.

Step #4.Serve on toasted buns, and top with cheese. Place under the broiler for a minute or two to melt cheese, if desired.

Recipe FAQs

What is the best cut of meat for Italian beef sandwiches?

I prefer a chuck roast or a rump roast because it holds up well in a slow cooker. However, my go-to is to purchase whatever is on sale.

Should I trim the fat off of the roast before cooking?

I like to trim any visible fat from the roast before adding it to the slow cooker. Others debate that the fat adds flavor but I personally don’t love eating a sandwich with bits of fat in it.

Why is this sandwich called Italian beef?

The Italian beef sandwich comes from Chicago in the 1930s. It was considered to be a working mans lunch. Italian immigrants would also serve this sandwich at weddings because the meat was inexpensive and could feed a crowd on a budget.

Where can I buy pepperoncinis?

You will be able to find pepperoncini at most grocery stores in the aisle that houses sandwich condiments like pickles and banana peppers. Just a tip- you are not looking for pickled banana peppers – Look for specifically on the jar for the word pepperoncini. These also can vary in heat so if you want a more mild pepper look for that on the jar.

What kind of roll should I serve Italian Beef on?

I like to serve Italian beef on a sturdy bread. Something along the lines of Italian or French bread. You don’t want too soft of a roll because you want the bread to be able to hold up all of the fixings. I either make my own sandwich buns or grab some from the bakery.

an Italian Beef Sandwich halves on a white plate

Expert Tips

Toasting the buns is optional but the little bit of crispness add a really nice texture AND helps the bread hold up to the sturdy filling better.
If you like the filling to be saucier like a French dip,skim the fat from the liquid left in the slow cooker, then return the shredded meat to it for 15-30 minutes before serving to let it soak in some of the juices, then serve.
You can adjust the level of spiciness by changing the amount of pepperoncini you add.Add fewer to make it less spicy. Add more and/or some liquid from the jar to make it more spicy.