Chicago Beef Crock Pot Recipe
This Chicago Beef Crock Pot recipe makes it easy to create the classic Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich at home. Using a chuck roast, Italian seasoning, pepperoncini peppers, giardiniera, and beef broth, the beef is slow-cooked until tender, then shredded and served on hoagie buns with melted provolone cheese. A comforting dish with deep flavor, it’s perfect for casual meals or gatherings.
Equipment
- Crock Pot Slow Cooker
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Can Opener for giardiniera and pepperoncini
- Tongs or Forks for shredding beef
- Serving Platters or Hoagie Buns
Ingredients
Chicago Beef Crock Pot:
- 3 lb chuck roast
- 1 Oz packet Italian dressing seasoning mix
- 1 Tbsp dried oregano
- 1 Tbsp dried basil
- 1 Tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 Tsp black pepper
- 1 cup reduced-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 1 cup drained giardiniera
- Hoagie buns
- Provolone cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the chuck roast into large chunks (optional for faster cooking), and drain the giardiniera and pepperoncini peppers.
Layer the Crock Pot:
- Place the chuck roast at the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle the Italian dressing seasoning mix, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and black pepper evenly over the meat.
Add Liquids and Peppers:
- Pour in the beef broth, then add the pepperoncini peppers and giardiniera on top of the roast.
Cook the Beef:
- Cover and cook on low for 9-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
Shred the Beef:
- Remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the crock pot and stir well.
Simmer:
- Let the shredded beef simmer in the juices for an additional 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve:
- Serve the Chicago beef on toasted hoagie buns with melted provolone cheese, and top with extra giardiniera or pepperoncini for added flavor. Enjoy!c
Notes
- Beef Cut: While chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking, you can also use top round or brisket. Just be sure to trim any excess fat for a leaner dish.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to match your taste. You can add extra garlic, onion powder, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Cooking Time: If you're short on time, you can use the high setting on the slow cooker (4-5 hours), but for the best flavor and tenderness, the low setting (9-10 hours) is recommended.
- Make it Spicy: For an extra kick, include more pepperoncini or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also use spicy giardiniera.
- Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a little beef broth to maintain moisture.
- Serving Options: Serve your Chicago beef on toasted hoagie buns with provolone cheese for the classic sandwich. For a low-carb version, try serving it over cauliflower rice or with roasted vegetables.