Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering Italian culinary adventure that will have your family begging for seconds! These Italian Shredded Beef Sandwiches are not just a meal, they're a flavor explosion that combines tender, slow-cooked beef with rich marinara sauce, all nestled in a perfectly toasted hoagie roll. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or craving a hearty weekend meal, this recipe promises restaurant-quality sandwiches that are surprisingly simple to make right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 hoagie rolls
- Provolone cheese, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the beef chuck roast by patting it dry with paper towels and generously seasoning all sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef roast on all sides until a deep golden-brown crust forms, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the seared roast to a slow cooker or large Dutch oven.
- In the same skillet, sauté sliced onions and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce over the beef, and add the sautéed onions and garlic around the roast.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6 hours, or until the beef is extremely tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the roast from the liquid and shred the meat using two forks, discarding any large fatty pieces.
- Return the shredded beef to the sauce and mix thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Slice hoagie rolls and lightly toast them if desired.
- Fill each roll generously with the shredded beef and sauce.
- Optional: Top with provolone cheese and place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Italian Shredded Beef Sandwiches immediately.
Tips
- Choose the right cut: A chuck roast is ideal for this recipe due to its marbling and ability to become incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
- Searing is crucial: Don't skip the searing step! This locks in flavors and creates a delicious golden-brown crust that adds depth to the entire dish.
- Low and slow is the key: Cooking the beef on low heat for 6 hours ensures the meat becomes fall-apart tender and absorbs all the marinara sauce's rich flavors.
- Cheese options: While provolone is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavor profiles.
- Make ahead friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. The shredded beef can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated easily.
- Bread matters: Lightly toasting the hoagie rolls adds a wonderful texture and prevents them from getting soggy from the sauce.
- Customize your sandwich: Add extra toppings like pickled peppers, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to make the recipe your own.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg