Name: Italian Beef Sandwiches
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3–4 pound chuck roast; 2 packets Italian dressing seasoning mix (not Italian herb seasoning); 16 ounces mild banana peppers, with juice (from a jar); 8 sandwich rolls; 16 slices provolone cheese; Extra banana peppers, for serving

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Italian Beef Sandwiches are a hearty, flavorful meal made with tender, slow-cooked chuck roast that’s infused with zesty banana peppers and Italian dressing seasoning. Piled high on a sandwich roll and topped with melty provolone cheese, these sandwiches are perfect for game day, family dinners, or whenever you want a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is as easy as it is delicious. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you get incredibly juicy, shredded beef that’s loaded with savory flavor. The banana peppers add a bright, tangy kick without making the dish spicy, and the Italian dressing mix brings in classic herb and garlic notes. Top it all off with cheese and extra peppers, and you’ve got a sandwich that’s impossible to resist.

Italian Beef Sandwiches

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chuck roast
Italian dressing seasoning (from packets, not spice jars)
mild banana peppers (including juice)
sandwich rolls
provolone cheese
extra banana peppers (for serving)

Directions

Place the chuck roast into your slow cooker.
Sprinkle the Italian dressing seasoning over the meat.
Pour the entire jar of banana peppers, including the juice, over the roast.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and shreds easily.
Shred the beef using two forks, mixing it into the juices in the slow cooker.
Toast or warm the sandwich rolls, if desired.
Pile the shredded beef onto the rolls, then top each sandwich with 2 slices of provolone cheese.
Add extra banana peppers on top for more flavor and texture.
Optional: Serve with small bowls of cooking juices for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 sandwiches.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours
Total time: 8 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Use hot banana peppers or add crushed red pepper flakes to the slow cooker.
Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, Swiss, or sharp cheddar instead of provolone.
Crispy top: Place assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1–2 minutes to melt and brown the cheese.
Peppers and onions: Sauté sliced bell peppers and onions and add them to the sandwich for extra depth.
Italian au jus: Strain and serve extra cooking juices as a flavorful dipping sauce, similar to a French dip.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:

Store leftover shredded beef in its juices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

Freeze shredded beef (with some of the juice) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a spoonful of the cooking juices to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Chuck roast is ideal for shredding, but brisket or bottom round roast can also work well.

Do I have to use banana peppers?

Banana peppers add a unique tang, but you can substitute with pepperoncini or omit them if preferred.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, the meat actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld. Reheat with some of the juices.

Can I use homemade Italian dressing mix?

Absolutely. Mix together dried herbs like oregano, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of sugar and salt.

What kind of rolls should I use?

Hoagie rolls, sandwich buns, ciabatta, or any sturdy roll that can hold up to juicy beef work great.

Is this dish spicy?

No, the mild banana peppers add flavor without heat. Use hot banana peppers if you want a spicier version.

Can I cook this on high to save time?

Yes, but the texture is best when cooked on low for a longer time.

Should I sear the beef before adding it to the slow cooker?

Searing adds extra flavor but is not necessary in this recipe—it’s designed to be quick and easy.

How do I prevent soggy sandwiches?

Toast the rolls before assembling and drain excess juice from the meat before piling it on.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes. Place everything in a covered Dutch oven and bake at 325°F for 3–4 hours, or until the beef shreds easily.

Conclusion

Italian Beef Sandwiches are a simple, flavorful solution for busy days, parties, or whenever you’re craving a warm, meaty sandwich. With tender shredded beef, zesty banana peppers, and melted provolone tucked into a soft roll, each bite is satisfying and full of bold flavor. Make a batch in your slow cooker and let the aroma fill your kitchen—you’ll be hooked after the first bite.