When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, Italian Beef stands out as a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a comforting Sunday dinner, this dish offers tender, flavorful beef that pairs wonderfully with crusty rolls and melted cheese. Whether you’re preparing for a large party or looking for a versatile meal that can be easily frozen for later, this Italian Beef recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Savory Italian Beef
- 4 to 5 pounds (1.8 to 2.3 kilograms) beef chuck roast
- 8 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) red pepper flakes
- 1 jar (approximately 12 ounces / 340 grams) pepperoncini peppers
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) beef base paste
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) water
How to Prepare Savory Italian Beef
- Prepare the Beef Roast: Begin by cutting small slits into the beef chuck roast. Insert the garlic cloves into each slit to infuse the meat with rich garlic flavor. Place the seasoned roast into a large roasting pan or baking dish.
- Mix the Seasonings: In a separate bowl, combine the dried Italian seasoning, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes. Thoroughly rub this seasoning mixture all over the beef roast, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
- Add Pepperoncini Peppers: Distribute the pepperoncini peppers evenly over the top of the seasoned roast. These peppers will add a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the dish as it cooks.
- Prepare the Beef Baste: In a small bowl, mix the beef base paste with 2 cups of water until well combined. This mixture will create a flavorful broth that keeps the beef moist and enhances its taste.
- Pour the Baste Over the Roast: Pour the beef baste mixture over the prepared roast in the baking dish, ensuring that the meat is partially submerged in the liquid.
- Bake the Beef: Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil or a lid to retain moisture. Place the pan in a preheated oven set to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius). Bake for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the Beef: Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, allowing it to absorb more of the flavorful juices.
- Chill and Separate the Broth: Carefully pour the remaining broth from the baking dish into a separate container and let it cool. Once chilled, skim off any excess fat from the top of the broth. Reheat the skimmed broth gently before serving to use as a dip for the Italian Beef sandwiches.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Place a generous portion of the shredded beef onto crusty rolls. Top each sandwich with slices of smoky provolone and mozzarella cheese, allowing the cheese to melt slightly from the heat of the beef.
- Serve with Au Jus: Serve the Italian Beef sandwiches warm, accompanied by the reheated au jus for dipping. The combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, and savory broth creates an irresistible sandwich experience.
This Savory Italian Beef recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. The slow-baked beef becomes incredibly tender, infused with the robust flavors of garlic, Italian seasoning, and tangy pepperoncini peppers. Whether you’re serving it for a festive gathering or enjoying a hearty meal at home, this Italian Beef is versatile and easy to prepare. Its ability to be made ahead and frozen makes it an excellent option for busy days or unexpected guests. Embrace the rich, savory goodness of this Italian Beef and elevate your dining experience with every delicious bite.
