Are you craving a delicious and spicy Chicago-style beef sandwich? Look no further! The Windy City is famous for its savory, slow-cooked roast beef sandwiches smothered in a tangy au jus and served on crusty Italian bread. But we’ve taken the classic recipe to the next level by adding some seriously spicy twists. From giardiniera to hot peppers, we’re talking bold flavors that will leave you craving more.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering Chicago beef sandwich recipes that pack a punch. Whether you like your sandwiches classic and simple or loaded with heat, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and get ready to spice up your lunch game with these incredible Chicago-style beef sandwiches!
Classic Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich
Experience the iconic flavors of Chicago with this mouthwatering sandwich, featuring tender beef, savory au jus, and crispy giardiniera. This beloved recipe has been a staple in the Windy City for generations.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs top round or rump roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 crusty sub rolls
– Giardiniera (hot peppers and vegetables) for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Season the beef with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast the beef in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Slice the beef thinly against the grain.
6. Reheat the au jus by combining beef broth, red wine (if using), and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
7. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced beef on sub rolls and serving with hot giardiniera.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Spicy Giardiniera Chicago Beef Sandwich
Get ready to taste the flavors of Chicago with this spicy twist on a classic beef sandwich! Thinly sliced roast beef, crispy giardiniera peppers, and melted provolone cheese come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 Italian-style giardiniera peppers, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon spicy giardiniera seasoning (available at most grocery stores)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 slices provolone cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and spicy giardiniera seasoning.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the roast beef slices.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing 2-3 slices of beef on each hoagie roll, followed by sliced giardiniera peppers and a slice or two of provolone cheese.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicago-Style Beef Sandwich
Get ready to sink your teeth into a juicy, flavorful sandwich that’s reminiscent of the Windy City’s classic style. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef pot roast (such as chuck or round)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Chicago-style giardiniera (or substitute with a spicy pickle relish)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the beef, onion, garlic, giardiniera, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Shred the beef with two forks and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the shredded beef onto the hamburger buns.
5. Top with additional giardiniera, if desired, and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Homemade Au Jus
Experience the classic flavors of Chicago’s iconic beef sandwiches with this simple recipe that combines tender roast beef, crusty bread, and a rich au jus. This hearty sandwich is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb roast beef (such as top round or rump), thinly sliced
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add sliced roast beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, combine beef broth, red wine (if using), and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked roast beef on hoagie rolls. Pour warmed au jus over the beef.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicago-Style Beef and Sausage Combo Sandwich
Experience the classic flavors of Chicago’s famous sandwiches with this mouthwatering combination of tender beef, savory sausage, and crunchy giardiniera. This hearty sandwich is a must-try for anyone looking to taste the real deal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef
– 2 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 1 cup giardiniera (hot pepper relish)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Provolone cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the roast beef into thin strips.
3. Cook sausages in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
4. Butter the hoagie rolls and toast them lightly.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced beef, sausage, and giardiniera on each roll.
6. Add provolone cheese if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicago Beef Sandwich
This recipe brings together the flavors of tender beef, crispy garlic, and rich butter to create a mouthwatering sandwich that’s sure to please. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
3. Place the beef slices on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
4. Meanwhile, toast the buns by grilling them for about 30 seconds.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading the garlic butter on each bun, followed by a slice of beef and some mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Pepperoncini
Experience the bold flavors of Chicago’s famous Italian beef sandwich elevated by the spicy kick of pepperoncini. This recipe combines tender, slow-cooked beef with crispy giardiniera and melted provolone cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or rump roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 Italian-style sandwich rolls
– Provolone cheese, sliced
– Pepperoncini, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the beef with olive oil, garlic, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the beef in a slow cooker or Dutch oven for 8-10 hours, or until tender.
4. Slice the beef thinly against the grain.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced beef on rolls, topping with melted provolone cheese, giardiniera (optional), and pepperoncini.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Cheesy Chicago Beef Sandwich with Provolone
A classic sandwich gets a creamy twist with melted provolone cheese and tender beef. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the roast beef with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
3. Meanwhile, toast the hoagie rolls by grilling them lightly or baking in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise and mustard on each roll, then adding sliced beef, provolone cheese, and parsley.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
Experience the classic flavors of Chicago’s South Side with this mouthwatering sandwich featuring slow-cooked beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese on a crusty roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef (such as top round or rump roast)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– 4 slices of Swiss or Provolone cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, pickle spears, and mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, season beef with salt and pepper. Cook in a separate skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked beef on the roll, topping with caramelized onions, cheese, and any optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including caramelizing time)
Spicy Horseradish Chicago Beef Sandwich
A classic Chicago-style beef sandwich gets a spicy kick from a tangy horseradish sauce, making this a flavorful twist on a city staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as top round or rump roast), cooked to medium-rare
– 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Provolone cheese, sliced
– Coleslaw, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the spicy brown mustard and prepared horseradish.
2. Slice the cooked beef into thin strips against the grain.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of the horseradish-mustard mixture on each hoagie roll, followed by a few slices of beef.
4. Top with provolone cheese and a sprinkle of parsley.
5. Serve immediately, with coleslaw on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooking time for the beef)
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Roasted Peppers
Experience the classic flavors of Chicago’s South Side with this mouthwatering sandwich recipe that combines tender beef, crispy giardiniera, and sweet roasted peppers on a crusty bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef (such as top round or rump)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/4 cup giardiniera (Chicago-style hot pickled vegetable mix)
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
– Mayonnaise or mustard for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Slice the roast beef against the grain into thin strips.
4. Grill or toast the hoagie rolls.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the sliced beef on the roll, followed by roasted peppers, giardiniera, and cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately with mayonnaise or mustard for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicago-Style Beef Dip Sandwich
This classic sandwich recipe combines tender roast beef with a flavorful dip made from melted cheddar cheese and creamy horseradish sauce, served on a soft bun. Perfect for game day gatherings or quick lunches.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add horseradish sauce. Stir until well combined.
4. Slice roast beef into thin strips.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading the cheese dip on each bun, followed by layers of roast beef and parsley.
6. Place sandwiches in oven for 2-3 minutes to melt cheese and warm meat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Hot Giardiniera Relish
Experience the authentic taste of Chicago’s iconic sandwich with this simple recipe featuring tender beef, crispy bread, and a spicy kick from hot giardiniera relish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (such as top round or rump)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 1/2 cup hot giardiniera relish (see note)
– 4 slices of provolone cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the roast beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the beef for about 5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, toast the hoagie rolls by grilling them lightly or baking in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing 1/4 cup of hot giardiniera relish on each roll, followed by 2-3 slices of beef and a sprinkle of shredded provolone cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Note: To make hot giardiniera relish, combine 1 cup of giardiniera peppers (such as banana peppers or sport peppers), 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your sandwich game with this mouthwatering combination of tender beef, crispy giardiniera, and creamy garlic aioli. This recipe is a modern take on the classic Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced top round or rump roast
– 1/4 cup giardiniera (hot peppers, onions, and spices)
– 4 sub rolls
– 1/2 cup garlic aioli (see below for recipe)
– Provolone cheese slices (optional)
Garlic Aioli Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add giardiniera to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Meanwhile, toast sub rolls by grilling or baking for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing beef mixture on toasted rolls, followed by garlic aioli, cheese (if using), and finally another roll half.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Crispy Onion Strings
Experience the classic flavors of Chicago’s iconic beef sandwiches with a crispy twist – caramelized onions transformed into crunchy strings that add texture and flavor to this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), such as ribeye or top round
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: giardiniera (Italian-style hot peppers) for added spice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Cook onions until caramelized (about 20 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, cook beef in a separate skillet with garlic powder and salt to taste.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked beef on hoagie rolls, topping with crispy onion strings, and adding optional giardiniera if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Onions: 20 minutes
– Beef: 5-7 minutes per side (depending on thickness)
– Assembly: 2-3 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Spicy Mustard
Experience the flavors of Chicago’s classic sandwich with a twist! This recipe combines tender beef, crispy giardiniera, and spicy mustard for a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef (such as top round or rump)
– 4 crusty sub rolls
– 1 cup giardiniera (hot peppers and spices)
– 2 tablespoons spicy mustard (such as Dijon or whole-grain)
– Lettuce, tomato, and onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the roast beef into thin strips.
3. Butter the sub rolls on the inside.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the beef, giardiniera, and mustard on each roll.
5. Cook in the panini press for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately with lettuce, tomato, and onion if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Pickled Jalapeños
Experience the classic flavors of Chicago’s iconic beef sandwiches, elevated by the tangy kick of pickled jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (such as top round or eye round)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tbsp yellow mustard
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 8-10 pickled jalapeños, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the roast beef for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
3. Meanwhile, toast the hoagie rolls on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading yellow mustard on each roll, followed by sliced roast beef, mozzarella cheese, parsley, and pickled jalapeños.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Homemade Gravy
Experience the quintessential flavors of Chicago with this mouth-watering sandwich, featuring thinly sliced roast beef, crispy giardiniera, and rich homemade gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb roast beef, thinly sliced
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 1/2 cup giardiniera (hot or mild)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced roast beef; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, toast hoagie rolls in the oven for 5 minutes.
4. To make gravy, whisk together flour and broth in a small bowl. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing beef on toasted rolls, topping with giardiniera, and serving with homemade gravy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of Chicago’s iconic beef sandwiches! This article presents 18 mouthwatering recipes that will spice up your mealtime. From classic Italian-style sandwiches to innovative twists with giardiniera and horseradish, there’s something for every taste bud. Explore slow-cooked beef, homemade au jus, and caramelized onions, or try unique combinations like sausage and provolone. Whether you prefer spicy or savory, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for the perfect Chicago-style beef sandwich.
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