Description
These Quick Chicago Beef Sandwiches offer a deliciously hearty and zesty twist on the classic Italian beef. Thinly sliced beef sirloin or chuck roast is seared and simmered in a flavorful au jus made with beef broth, Italian dressing, Worcestershire sauce, and aromatic spices. Served on toasted hoagie rolls and topped with tangy giardiniera, this sandwich is perfect for a satisfying meal in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Au Jus
- 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)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sandwich Assembly
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
- 1/2 cup giardiniera (pickled vegetable mix)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- Prepare the Au Jus: In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add the beef broth, Italian dressing, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the browned beef to the skillet with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Rolls: Slice the hoagie rolls open and place them under the broiler. Toast them for a few minutes until they are golden brown and crispy, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Layer the simmered beef and onions onto the toasted rolls generously.
- Add Giardiniera and Au Jus: Top the meat with the tangy giardiniera, then spoon some of the flavorful au jus over the beef inside each sandwich.
- Serve: Serve the sandwiches immediately with extra au jus on the side for dipping, enhancing every bite with rich, savory goodness.
Notes
- For best results, slice the beef very thinly to ensure quick cooking and tenderness.
- Giardiniera adds authentic Chicago flavor; substitute with pickled pepperoncini or pickled banana peppers if unavailable.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spiciness according to your preference.
- Use zesty Italian dressing to add a tangy kick to the au jus.
- Leftover sandwiches can be reheated covered in a skillet to retain moisture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
