Irresistible Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches: Slow Cooker Comfort Food

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Looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion? These Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches are slow-cooked to tender, juicy perfection with Italian spices and tangy peppers, then topped with gooey cheese on toasty rolls.

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Whether it’s game day or a busy weeknight, this hands-off recipe will become your go-to for easy, satisfying comfort food.

Emma Franklin

Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches

These Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches are slow-cooked to juicy perfection with Italian spices, tangy peppers, and topped with gooey cheese on toasty rolls, the ultimate hands-off comfort food for game day or busy nights.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 8 sandwiches
Course: Main Course, Sandwich
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 510
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds beef roast (chuck roast recommended)
  • 16 oz jar Chicago-style Giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables)
  • 16 oz jar sliced Pepperoncini peppers
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 8-12 sturdy French or hoagie rolls
  • 8-12 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese

Equipment

  • slow cooker (crockpot)
  • forks (for shredding beef)
  • baking sheet (for broiling sandwiches)
  • oven (for broiling)
  • knife (for slicing rolls)

Method
 

  1. Place the beef roast in the slow cooker.
  2. Pour the Giardiniera, Pepperoncinis, beef broth, and seasonings over the meat. Stir lightly to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
  4. Remove the beef and shred with two forks, then return the shredded meat to the juices in the crockpot.
  5. Pile shredded beef on the rolls, top with cheese slices.
  6. Broil sandwiches for about 1 minute until cheese melts and bread is slightly toasted.
  7. Optional: Dunk sandwiches in the flavorful au jus for extra deliciousness.

Nutrition

Calories: 510kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 38gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 1620mgPotassium: 720mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 240mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Use sturdy sandwich rolls so they don’t fall apart. Let the beef rest before shredding to keep it juicy. Freeze leftovers with some cooking juices to prevent dryness. Try variations with sautéed onions, mushrooms, or different cheeses like sharp provolone or fontina.

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Why You’ll Love Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Juicy, tender beef roast cooked low and slow

Flavorful Italian seasonings mixed with Giardiniera and Pepperoncini

Gooey melted mozzarella or provolone cheese topping

Easy prep : just 5 minutes to start, then set and forget

Perfect for feeding a crowd or batch cooking for the week

Ingredients for Tender Crockpot Italian Beef

  • 3 pounds beef roast (chuck roast works great)
  • 1 (16 oz) jar Chicago-style Giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables)
  • 1 (16 oz) jar sliced Pepperoncini peppers
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 8-12 sturdy French or hoagie rolls
  • 8-12 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese

How to Make Italian Beef Sandwiches in Your Crockpot

  • Place the beef roast in the slow cooker.
  • Pour the Giardiniera, Pepperoncinis, beef broth, and seasonings over the meat. Stir lightly to combine.
  • Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
  • Remove the beef and shred with two forks, then return the shredded meat to the juices in the crockpot.
  • Pile shredded beef on the rolls, top with cheese slices.
  • Broil sandwiches for about 1 minute until cheese melts and bread is slightly toasted.
  • Optional: Dunk sandwiches in the flavorful au jus for extra deliciousness.
  • Practical Tips for the Best Crockpot Italian Beef
    Use sturdy sandwich rolls to hold all the juicy meat and toppings without falling apart.
  • If short on time, use pre-mixed au jus seasoning with Italian herbs.
  • Let the beef rest for a few minutes before shredding to keep juices locked in.
  • Freeze leftovers with some juice to reheat later without drying out the meat.

Bonus Ideas to Customize Your Italian Beef Sandwiches

  • Add sautéed onions or mushrooms inside for extra savory layers.
  • Use turkey bacon or smoked chicken strips as a smoky topping alternative.
  • Serve with a side of crispy oven fries or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or sharp provolone for varied flavor.

Pin this recipe now for your next cozy dinner or game day feast! Share with friends who love easy slow cooker meals, and try making these flavorful Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches this week!