This Quick Chicago Beef Sandwiches version of the iconic Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich brings together tender, seasoned beef, tangy giardiniera, and a savory au jus for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these sandwiches pack bold flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Authentic Flavors: Captures the essence of a classic Chicago Italian beef sandwich without the fuss.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your preferences.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Great for Dipping: The au jus elevates every bite, making it irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb beef sirloin or chuck roast, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup Italian dressing (preferably zesty)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
1/2 cup giardiniera (pickled vegetable mix)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Cook the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Prepare the Au Jus:
In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
Add the beef broth, Italian dressing, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and bring to a simmer.
Return the cooked beef to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the beef to absorb the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Rolls:
Slice the hoagie rolls and toast them under the broiler or in a toaster oven until golden and crispy.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Pile the beef mixture onto the toasted rolls, spooning a bit of the au jus onto the beef.
Top with a generous amount of giardiniera.
Serve:
Serve the sandwiches immediately with extra au jus on the side for dipping.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: Makes 4 sandwiches
Variations
Cheesy Twist: Add provolone or mozzarella cheese for a gooey addition.
Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms and vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
Bread Choice: Substitute hoagie rolls with baguettes or ciabatta for a different texture.
Herbaceous Flavor: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the beef mixture separately from the rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Toast the rolls before assembling the sandwiches.
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FAQs
What kind of beef works best for this recipe?
I prefer beef sirloin or chuck roast because they cook quickly and absorb the flavors beautifully.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
Is giardiniera necessary?
While it’s a traditional topping for Chicago-style sandwiches, you can skip it or replace it with your favorite pickled vegetables.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free rolls and ensure that the Worcestershire sauce and Italian dressing you use are gluten-free.
Can I freeze the beef mixture?
Yes, the beef mixture freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Conclusion
These quick Chicago beef sandwiches are a flavorful, hearty dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, zesty giardiniera, and a savory au jus, every bite delivers a taste of the Windy City’s culinary charm. Whether you’re serving this for a casual family meal or a game-day treat, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
📖 Recipe:
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Quick Chicago Beef Sandwiches
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
Description
Quick and easy Chicago beef sandwiches featuring tender beef, tangy giardiniera, and savory au jus. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, bringing authentic flavors straight to your table.
Ingredients
1 lb beef sirloin or chuck roast, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup Italian dressing (zesty preferred)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
1/2 cup giardiniera (pickled vegetable mix)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Au Jus:
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add beef broth, Italian dressing, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer.
- Return beef to skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Rolls:
- Slice hoagie rolls and toast under the broiler until golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Layer beef mixture onto toasted rolls.
- Top with giardiniera and spoon au jus over the beef.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with extra au jus for dipping.
Notes
For extra flavor, add provolone or mozzarella cheese.
Customize spice levels with more red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
Store beef mixture separately from rolls to keep sandwiches fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 sandwiches
- Calories: 320 kcal
