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You are here: Home / Recipes / Main Dish / Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches

Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches

November 3, 2024

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Jump to Recipe
Three image collage of slow cooker Italian beef showing how it's made and Italian Beef Sandwiches. Center color block with text overlay.

Irresistible Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches are quick and easy to make! Juicy, tender, flavorful Italian Beef made right in your slow cooker with just a handful of ingredients. Great for game day or an easy weeknight dinner!

Make beef recipes to try: Ground Beef Casserole, Chili Mac and Cheese and Salisbury Steak!

Italian Beef Sandwich sitting on wood cutting board with a basket of chips behind it.

Italian Beef

This simple Italian Beef recipe is serious comfort food and you are going to love how easy it is to make! This easy slow-cooker dish brings together tender beef, tangy peppers and Provolone cheese, all piled high on a crusty roll. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with bold Italian flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Slow-cooked to perfection, these Italian Beef sandwiches are as delicious as they are versatile. The prep is so quick and easy. The beef gets seasoned and then popped in the slow cooker and topped with tomato sauce. Next comes the sliced bell peppers, onions and pepperoncinis. The pepperoncinis have a little bit of spice but even if you’re not a fan of spicy recipes, you don’t really want to leave them out as they add a lot of flavor. Then it’s the slow cookers turn to turn that beef into melt in your mouth tender and flavor Italian Beef.

I like to toast up some crusty sandwich rolls, load it up with the Italian beef, add some more pepperoncinis – if you like it spicy – and then top with some Provolone cheese. I throw it all in a warm oven until the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey – so good! Heaven you guys. This Italian Beef is just ridiculously good and so perfect for weeknights, game day gatherings, or cozy family dinners

Two halves of a Italian Beef sandwich stacked on top of each other with the melted Provolone cheese and pepperoncinis showing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hands-Off Cooking: With just a bit of prep (really less than 10 minutes), you can let the slow cooker handle all the hard work. No need to stand over the stove or worry about timing – simply set it and forget it. This makes it ideal for busy days when you want a flavorful dinner without constant supervision.
  • Perfect for Crowds: Italian Beef sandwiches are a fantastic choice for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s game day, a casual get-together, or a family meal, these sandwiches are guaranteed to be a hit.
  • Flavor Bomb: The combination of slow-cooked beef, tangy pepperoncini, sweet bell peppers, onions and creamy Provolone cheese creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.

How To Make Italian Beef

Craving a hearty, flavorful sandwich? This Italian Beef sandwich is loaded with tender, juicy beef, tangy peppers and gooey Provolone cheese, all piled high on a toasted roll. Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a simple, crowd-pleasing meal!

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Let’s take a quick look at how to make this Italian Beef recipe and, as always, you can find the full, printable recipe in the recipe card at the end of this post.

Slow Cooker Italian Beef

  1. Mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Trim excess fat from the roast and season each side with about one-third of the seasoning mixture.
  2. Place the seasoned roast in the slow cooker.
  3. Pour the tomato sauce over the top.
  4. Add the sliced green bell peppers and onions.
  5. Add pepperoncinis and sprinkle the remaining third of the seasoning over the vegetables and drizzle with the reserved 3 tablespoons of pepperoncini liquid.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours, or on high for 5-6 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
  7. Using two forks, shred the beef in the slow cooker—it should be very tender and fall apart easily.
  8. Mix well with the peppers and onions.
Eight image collage showing how to make italian beef in the slow cooker.

Assemble Italian Beef Sandwiches

  1. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, scoop the beef mixture onto the bottom half of each sandwich roll,
  2. Top each sandwich with additional pepperoncini if desired.
  3. Top with slices of Provolone cheese.
  4. Place the sandwiches in the oven for a few minutes, just until the cheese melts and the roll is toasted.
Four image collage showing how to make Italian Beef Sandwiches.

Storage Information

  • Freezing: Italian Beef freezes beautifully. Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop before serving.
  • Make Ahead: This Italian Beef is even better the next day! The flavors really meld together and intensify. Prep and cook in advance, then reheat for easy serving. I like to serve this straight out of the slow cooker. Set to warm and serve the toppings and rolls on the side.
  • Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Variations to Try

  • Add a few extra pepperoncini or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
  • Swap Provolone for mozzarella or any other Italian cheese for a twist on flavor.
  • Add fresh basil or oregano at the end for an extra layer of Italian flavor.

Instant Pot Italian Beef

You can make this recipe in an Instant Pot! Use the sauté setting to brown the beef first for extra flavor. Then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes. Once done, quick release, shred the beef and assemble the sandwiches as directed.

How long should I cook my Italian Beef?

You basically want to cook the beef until it is fall-apart tender. Now, you can go low and slow for 10+ hours or put this on high for 5+ hours. Your call.

What type of roll works best for Italian Beef sandwiches?

Crusty rolls like Italian sandwich rolls, ciabatta, or French baguettes work best. These sturdier breads hold up to the juicy beef mixture and won’t get soggy as quickly as softer rolls.

What other toppings can I add to the Italian Beef sandwiches?

Some people enjoy adding giardiniera, sliced olives or sautéed mushrooms. Customize the sandwiches with your favorite toppings!

Serve With These Sides

These sandwiches are amazing on their own but even better with a tasty side:

  • Oven Fries
  • Coleslaw
  • Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad
  • Italian Pasta Salad
  • Italian Wedding Soup

Trish’s Tips

  • We had leftovers since I made this just for us and we’re a family of four. If you’re in the same situation, the Italian Beef is excellent on top of a baked potato or served with rice. Makes for an even easier dinner later on in the week.
  • The recipe calls for a 4 pound chuck roast but really, anywhere from 3 to 5 pounds will work great.
  • I used Provolone cheese but a shredded Italian blend would also be delicious.
  • This recipe is great for meal planning! Make a batch ahead of time and store in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and assemble for an easy, delicious dinner that’s as good as fresh.
  • A sturdy, crusty roll helps absorb the delicious juices without getting soggy.
  • Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the beef mixture to prevent sogginess in the sandwich.
  • Take time to shred the beef thoroughly well for even bites packed with flavor.
  • For a Chicago-style Italian Beef experience, serve the sandwiches “wet” by dipping each roll into the leftover cooking juices (au jus) before adding the beef. This makes each bite extra juicy and flavorful. You can serve a small bowl of au jus on the side for dipping instead if you prefer.
Italian Beef Sandwich recipesitting on wood cutting board with a basket of chips behind it.

More Slow Cooker Recipes

  1. Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
  2. Crockpot Chili
  3. Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites
  4. Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
  5. Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans
Italian Beef Sandwich sitting on wood cutting board with a basket of chips behind it.
Print Pin
4.98 from 42 votes

Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches

Irresistible Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches are quick and easy to make! Juicy, tender, flavorful Italian Beef made right in your slow cooker with just a handful of ingredients. Pepproncinis, provolone cheese and melt-in-your-mouth beef makes the best Italian Beef Sandwiches. Great for game day or an easy weeknight dinner!
Course Entree
Cuisine American
Keyword Italian beef, italian beef recipe, italian beef sandwiches, slow cooker italian beef
Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time 10 hours hours
Total Time 10 hours hours 10 minutes minutes
Servings 10 sandwiches
Calories 662kcal
Author Trish – Mom On Timeout

Ingredients

  • 4 pound boneless beef chuck pot roast 3 to 5 pounds will work
  • 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 15 ounces tomato sauce
  • 2 green bell peppers thinly sliced
  • 2 yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 12 ounces jar sliced pepperoncini (plus more for serving)
  • 10 crusty sandwich rolls split and toasted
  • 20 slices Provolone cheese

Instructions

  • Lightly spray the insert of a 6- or 7-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Trim excess fat from the roast and season each side with about one-third of the seasoning mixture.
    2 teaspoons fine sea salt, 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 4 pound boneless beef chuck pot roast
  • Place the seasoned roast in the slow cooker. Pour the tomato sauce over the top, then add the sliced green bell peppers, onions and pepperoncini (make sure to drain it). Sprinkle the remaining third of the seasoning over the vegetables and drizzle with the reserved pepperoncini liquid.
    15 ounces tomato sauce, 2 green bell peppers, 2 yellow onions, 12 ounces jar sliced pepperoncini
  • Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours, or on high for 5-6 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
  • Once the beef is done, preheat your oven to 250°F. Open up the rolls slightly and toast for just a few minutes.
    10 crusty sandwich rolls
  • Using two forks, shred the beef in the slow cooker—it should be very tender and fall apart easily. Mix well with the peppers and onions.
  • Using tongs or a slotted spoon, scoop the beef mixture onto the bottom half of each sandwich roll, letting excess liquid drain away to prevent soggy sandwiches.
    10 crusty sandwich rolls
  • Top each sandwich with additional pepperoncini if desired and slices of Provolone cheese. Place the sandwiches in the oven for a few minutes, just until the cheese melts.
    20 slices Provolone cheese
  • Serve the sandwiches immediately, with extra pepperoncini on the side if you like. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

Storage Information
Freezing: Italian Beef freezes beautifully. Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop before serving.
Make Ahead: This Italian Beef is even better the next day! The flavors really meld together and intensify. Prep and cook in advance, then reheat for easy serving. I like to serve this straight out of the slow cooker. Set to warm and serve the toppings and rolls on the side.
Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For a Chicago-style Italian Beef experience, serve the sandwiches “wet” by dipping each roll into the leftover cooking juices (au jus) before adding the beef. This makes each bite extra juicy and flavorful. You can serve a small bowl of au jus on the side for dipping instead if you prefer.

Some people enjoy adding giardiniera, sliced olives or sautéed mushrooms. Customize the sandwiches with your favorite toppings!

Nutrition

Calories: 662kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 52g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 151mg | Sodium: 1406mg | Potassium: 1015mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 754IU | Vitamin C: 52mg | Calcium: 398mg | Iron: 7mg

Originally published August 20, 2017.

  • 19944

By Trish - Mom On Timeout November 3, 2024 Beef, Beef Recipes, Entree, Main Dish, Method, Recipes, Sandwiches and Burgers, Slow Cooker, Slow Cooker

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Comments

  1. Sherri says

    October 18, 2019 at 4:48 AM

    I have to agree. This recipe is a keeper. My husband eat two sandwiches that night.

    Reply
    • Trish - Mom On Timeout says

      October 18, 2019 at 10:00 AM

      So awesome, thank you!

      Reply
  2. Ginny Borik says

    September 11, 2019 at 1:41 PM

    I’ve also used the leftovers for some pretty awesome Nachos too. YUMMMM!!

    Reply
    • Trish - Mom On Timeout says

      November 16, 2019 at 7:22 AM

      Ooooh! Great idea Ginny!

      Reply
  3. Bryan says

    June 26, 2019 at 9:15 PM

    I used two cans of fire roasted tomato with garlic instead of the tomato sauce and seared the roast on a 500 degree cast iron pan for two minutes a side and it was amazing. Great recipe, thanks for the idea!

    Reply
  4. irene slorp says

    March 23, 2019 at 2:44 PM

    My husband is totally hooked on this recipe. Did not change any of the ingredients or the amount. What I did wrong was to have the tomato sauce on top of everything. Great taste but next time and there will a next time will follow exactly, I mean step by step. I too did the crusty rolls and the provolone cheese. My husband add to his sandwich some horseradish. Now on to mashed potatoes and the rest of the dish.
    Love your recipes.

    Reply
    • Trish - Mom On Timeout says

      November 16, 2019 at 7:21 AM

      Thanks so much Irene!

      Reply
  5. Nece says

    March 12, 2019 at 6:02 PM

    This is absolutely delicious! It’s now in our rotation of dinners! This is a very hearty meal and is enough for 2 dinners and lunch for us. This will easily be a dinner for 4 or 5 and still have a couple of lunches leftover. It’s so easy to make and it tastes as good as it smells! We’ve made it twice now and absolutely love it!

    Reply
    • Trish - Mom On Timeout says

      March 17, 2019 at 5:42 PM

      We’re planning on making it this week! So glad you love it Nece!

      Reply
  6. Melissa says

    January 20, 2019 at 11:00 AM

    I’ve made this several times. From dinner just for my family to making it in bulk and feeding hungry college students in my office, everyone absolutely loves it. Thank you for the recipe!

    Reply
  7. Stephanie says

    January 19, 2019 at 12:32 AM

    Looks fabulous

    Reply
  8. Sue says

    January 18, 2019 at 10:54 PM

    This looks so amazing, going to make it on Sunday, I have made similar but this looks so good cannot wait to make it.

    Reply
  9. Lynn says

    January 9, 2019 at 1:57 PM

    Has anyone tried this in the instapot?

    Reply
  10. Michelle Butler says

    December 9, 2018 at 3:35 PM

    Made this for the first time today. Great recipe, Trish! Only thing I changed was to use one green pepper rather than two. So easy and full of flavor! I only had a 3 lb roast, so after 10 hrs of slow cooking; I shredded the meat and drained most of the cooking juice out (saved it for sandwich dipping later), then l let the meat cook in the crock pot without the lid for another hour so it wouldn’t be so soggy for the sandwiches. Turned out perfect! This recipe is a keeper,

    I did want to point out one thing for correction in your directions. In step 4, it states to “…season each side with roughly one-third of the seasonings.” i’m assuming you meant 2/3 of the seasonings since step 8 says to “sprinkle the remaining third of the seasoning…”

    Reply
  11. Steven says

    December 8, 2018 at 6:41 AM

    I am making it now I didn’t have any tomato sauce so I used Italian spaghetti sauce eight hours to go yummy

    Reply
  12. Cindy says

    November 2, 2018 at 12:18 PM

    Love this recipe! I use red/yellow/orange peppers instead of green – I don’t like green peppers. I make this often.

    Reply
    • Trish - Mom On Timeout says

      November 2, 2018 at 5:49 PM

      I’m with you Cindy – I totally prefer the red, yellow and orange. Thanks and have a great weekend!

      Reply
  13. Sandy Bentien says

    October 15, 2018 at 12:02 PM

    Made this last night and it is a keeper!!! My roast was quite large so I adjusted the amount of ingredients I thought to make it work. I did not have green bell peppers so I used red & yellow. I cooked on high for 3 hours and than another 4 on low. It came out PERFECT!!!! Thank you for this easy, delicious recipe!

    Reply
  14. Kellie says

    September 28, 2018 at 3:19 PM

    Could you use the insta pot instead?

    Reply
  15. Susan D. says

    September 18, 2018 at 3:14 PM

    I have this recipe saved and I am getting ready to make it again. I wouldn’t change a thing!! We absolutely love it! The smell in the house while you’re making it is amazing!! The first time we made it was on Halloween and everyone who came to our door commented on how wonderful it smelled. Since then we make it regularly!!

    Reply
    • Trish - Mom On Timeout says

      September 19, 2018 at 8:47 AM

      That makes me so happy Susan! And seriously, a great idea for Halloween. I may do that myself this year!

      Reply
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Hi, I’m Trish!

Welcome to Mom On Timeout where I’m serving up real food for real families! Dinners, desserts, and everything in between!
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