Are you ready for a taste adventure? Look no further than the iconic Chicago beef sandwich, a staple of the Windy City’s culinary scene. Thinly sliced roast beef, served in a crusty roll and smothered in savory au jus, is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. But why settle for just one way to enjoy this beloved dish when you can try 20 different variations? From classic Italian-style sandwiches to spicy twists and cheesy additions, we’ve got you covered with our list of 20 savory Chicago beef sandwich recipes.
From slow cooker recipes that make meal prep a breeze to homemade au jus and caramelized onions, each recipe on our list offers something unique and delicious. Whether you’re a Chicago native or just looking for a taste of the city’s famous flavors, these sandwiches are sure to hit the spot.
Classic Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich
A hearty sandwich that’s a staple of Chicago’s Italian-American cuisine, featuring tender and flavorful beef, rich au jus, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or rump roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 4 crusty Italian bread rolls
– Provolone cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the beef, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the beef in a large Dutch oven or roasting pan and roast for 3-1/2 hours, or until tender.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain.
7. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced beef on bread rolls, topping with au jus (see below) and melted provolone cheese.
Au Jus:
1. Reserve 1 cup of the roast’s cooking liquid.
2. Simmer the liquid over low heat until reduced to a rich, syrupy consistency.
3. Serve warm alongside sandwiches.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 hours (roasting), 10 minutes (assembling)
Spicy Giardiniera Chicago Beef Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with this mouth-numbingly spicy take on the classic Chicago beef sandwich, featuring giardiniera’s bold flavors and crunchy texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef
– 4-6 Italian-style giardiniera peppers (such as hot banana peppers), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: provolone or mozzarella cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together giardiniera peppers and olive oil. Brush mixture onto roast beef slices.
3. Grill or cook beef to desired level of doneness (rare-medium rare works well).
4. Meanwhile, butter hoagie rolls lightly.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked beef on the rolls, followed by additional giardiniera peppers if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Slow Cooker Chicago-Style Beef Sandwich
Savor the classic flavors of a Chicago-style beef sandwich with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a crowd or a family gathering, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds beef top round or rump roast
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• Sliced sport peppers, for garnish (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Place the beef on top of the onions and add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Slice the cooked beef thinly against the grain.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced beef onto hamburger buns.
7. Garnish with sport peppers and parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Homemade Au Jus
Savor the flavors of Chicago’s classic beef sandwich, elevated by a rich and tangy homemade au jus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced top round or rump roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Provolone or cheddar cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add beef slices, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
5. Slice beef against the grain; assemble sandwiches with au jus spooned over the top. Add cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (au jus) + assembly time
Cheesy Chicago Beef Sandwich with Provolone
Savor the flavors of the Windy City with this mouthwatering sandwich featuring thinly sliced roast beef, melted provolone cheese, and crunchy giardiniera.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. thinly sliced roast beef (such as Italian-style or top round)
– 4-6 slices Provolone cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Giardiniera (hot pepper relish), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the roast beef with olive oil and season with salt, if desired.
3. Grill the roast beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
4. Meanwhile, toast the hoagie rolls by grilling them for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of roast beef on each roll, followed by a slice or two of Provolone cheese.
6. Top with giardiniera and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Sweet Peppers
Experience the classic flavors of a Chicago-style beef sandwich with the added sweetness of roasted peppers. This simple recipe combines tender roast beef, crispy giardiniera, and melted cheese on a toasted bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 sweet bell peppers, any color
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Giardiniera ( Chicago-style pickled vegetable mix), drained
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Slice the roast beef against the grain into thin strips.
4. Grill or broil the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until caramelized.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading giardiniera on the bun, followed by a layer of cheese, roasted peppers, and beef.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicago Beef Sandwich
A classic sandwich gets a flavorful boost with this Garlic Butter Chicago Beef recipe. Tender roast beef, crispy giardiniera peppers, and melted provolone cheese all come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef
– 2 tbsp garlic butter (see note)
– 4 slices of Italian bread
– 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup giardiniera peppers, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice with garlic butter.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of roast beef on each bread slice, followed by shredded provolone cheese and chopped giardiniera peppers.
4. Top with another bread slice (buttered side up).
5. Cook in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
Experience the classic flavors of Chicago’s famous beef sandwiches with this easy-to-make recipe, featuring tender roast beef, sweet caramelized onions, and melted cheddar cheese on a crusty bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 hamburger buns
– 4 slices cheddar cheese
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, season roast beef with salt. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing roasted beef onto the bun, followed by caramelized onions, cheese, lettuce, and tomato (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Hot Giardiniera
Experience the bold flavors of Chicago’s classic sandwich with this recipe that combines tender beef, crispy giardiniera, and melted cheese on a crusty bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 Italian-style sandwich rolls
– 2 cups hot giardiniera (available at most grocery stores or online)
– 4 slices provolone cheese
– Lettuce, tomato, and onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the roast beef into thin strips and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
3. Meanwhile, toast the sandwich rolls by placing them on the preheated griddle or in a toaster.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the cooked beef onto the toasted rolls, followed by a slice of provolone cheese and a spoonful of hot giardiniera.
5. Add lettuce, tomato, and onion if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Roasted Garlic Mayo
Savor the bold flavors of Chicago’s classic sandwich by combining tender beef, roasted garlic mayonnaise, and crispy giardiniera.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as top round or rump), cut into strips
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup roasted garlic puree (see note)
– 1 cup giardiniera (Italian-style hot pepper relish)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic: Wrap cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook beef strips to desired doneness. Drain excess fat.
4. Toast hamburger buns on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading roasted garlic mayonnaise on toasted buns, topping with cooked beef, and finishing with giardiniera.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including roasting time)
Chicago Beef Sandwich on a Toasted French Roll
A classic Chicago-style sandwich that combines tender beef with melted cheese and crispy roll, this recipe is a must-try for any sandwich lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– 2 tablespoons of mustard (such as Dijon or yellow mustard)
– 2 French rolls, toasted
– Optional toppings: sautéed onions, bell peppers, and/or hot giardiniera
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Slice the roast beef into thin strips and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake the beef for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, toast the French rolls by placing them on the oven rack for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mustard on each toasted roll, then adding a slice of Swiss cheese and a few slices of roast beef.
6. Add any desired toppings, such as sautéed onions or bell peppers, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Spicy Mustard
A classic Chicago-style sandwich gets a spicy kick with this recipe. Thinly sliced roast beef, crispy giardiniera, and melted provolone cheese come together on a crusty sub roll, all held together by a tangy and spicy mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 sub rolls
– 1/2 cup giardiniera (hot or mild)
– 8 slices of provolone cheese
– 1 tablespoon Spicy Mustard (see below for recipe)
– Lettuce and tomato, optional
Spicy Mustard Recipe:
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
Instructions:
1. Preheat broiler.
2. Slice roast beef into thin strips and place on sub rolls.
3. Top with giardiniera, provolone cheese, and Spicy Mustard.
4. Place sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and mustard is warm.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Melted Mozzarella
Experience the classic flavors of Chicago’s South Side with this mouthwatering sandwich. Thinly sliced roast beef, melted mozzarella cheese, and crunchy giardiniera come together to create a flavor combination that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 Italian-style sub rolls
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup giardiniera (Chicago-style hot peppers)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the roast beef into thin strips.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of roast beef on each roll, followed by a spoonful of giardiniera.
4. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Top each sandwich with 2-3 slices of mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Crispy Onion Strings
Savor the flavors of Chicago’s classic street food with this mouthwatering sandwich, featuring tender beef, crispy onions, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef (such as Top Round or Chuck)
– 4 crusty Italian-style bread rolls
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized and crispy, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, slice the roast beef into thin strips.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of beef onto each bread roll, followed by some crispy onion strings, and finishing with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
5. Drizzle Worcestershire sauce over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including onion cooking time)
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Homemade Gravy
This classic sandwich recipe from Chicago’s Italian-American tradition features tender roast beef, crispy giardiniera peppers, and a rich homemade gravy on a crusty roll. Serve it up for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb top round roast beef
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 1 cup giardiniera peppers (sweet or hot)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Roast the beef in a slow cooker or oven for 3-4 hours, until tender.
3. Slice the roast beef thinly against the grain.
4. Grill the giardiniera peppers until crispy.
5. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually whisk in beef broth, bringing to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced beef on hoagie rolls, topping with giardiniera peppers, and spooning homemade gravy over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (including slow cooking time)
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Pickled Jalapeños
A classic Chicago-style sandwich gets a spicy twist with the addition of pickled jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef (such as prime rib or top round)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons horseradish sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, sliced
– Lettuce and tomato, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Slice the roast beef against the grain into thin strips.
3. Place the beef on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and warm in the oven for 10-15 minutes.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading horseradish sauce on the bottom half of each hoagie roll, followed by a layer of beef, cheese, pickled jalapeños, and finally the top half of the roll.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with lettuce and tomato if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Horseradish Sauce
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Horseradish Sauce Recipe
A classic Chicago-style sandwich gets a spicy kick with this recipe that combines tender beef, crispy giardiniera, and creamy horseradish sauce on a crusty roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
– 4 Italian-style sub rolls
– 1/2 cup giardiniera (hot pepper mix)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 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 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
4. Meanwhile, toast the sub rolls on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Spread a layer of cream cheese on each roll, followed by a few slices of grilled beef.
6. Top with giardiniera and drizzle with horseradish sauce (mix softened cream cheese with prepared horseradish).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Fresh Basil
A classic Midwestern favorite gets a fresh twist with the addition of sweet and aromatic basil. This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (such as prime rib or top round)
– 4 crusty sub rolls
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Provolone cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In the skillet, cook the roast beef slices for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the sub rolls by placing them on the skillet or griddle for about 30 seconds, or until lightly toasted.
4. Spread a layer of olive oil on each roll, followed by a sprinkle of minced garlic.
5. Add the sliced roast beef to the rolls, followed by a spoonful of chopped basil.
6. Top with provolone cheese slices (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Roasted Red Peppers
A classic Chicago-style sandwich gets a flavorful twist with the addition of sweet and smoky roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian beef, sliced thin
– 4 crusty sub rolls
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup au jus (beef broth or store-bought)
– Provolone cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chopped red peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, cook the Italian beef in au jus according to package instructions.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced beef onto sub rolls, followed by roasted red peppers and provolone cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Garlic Aioli
Chicago Beef Sandwich with Garlic Aioli
This classic sandwich is a staple of Chicago’s street food scene, featuring tender thinly sliced roast beef piled high on a crusty roll and slathered in creamy garlic aioli.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Slice the roast beef thinly against the grain.
- To make the aioli, combine mayonnaise, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
- Pile the sliced beef onto the hoagie rolls.
- Spread 1-2 tablespoons of the garlic aioli on top of the beef.
Summary
Get ready to sink your teeth into the ultimate Chicago beef sandwich experience! This article brings you 20 mouth-watering recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic combinations to spicy twists, these sandwiches are perfect for every occasion – whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration. Discover how to elevate the iconic Italian beef sandwich with giardiniera, slow cooker recipes, and creative takes like cheese, sweet peppers, and caramelized onions. Whether you’re a Chicago native or just a fan of this iconic dish, these recipes are sure to become your new go-to for satisfying your cravings.
