Description
These Quick Chicago Beef Sandwiches offer a flavorful, hearty meal with tender beef sirloin simmered in a zesty Italian dressing and au jus, served on toasted hoagie rolls and topped with tangy giardiniera. This recipe is perfect for a fast, satisfying dinner that packs the classic taste of Chicago’s famous beef sandwiches in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Sauce
- 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
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 aside.
- Prepare the Au Jus: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Then, pour in the beef broth, Italian dressing, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the Beef: Return the browned beef to the skillet with the simmering sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook gently for 5-7 minutes so the beef absorbs the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Prepare the Rolls: While the beef simmers, slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise and place them under the broiler. Toast for a few minutes until they are golden and crispy, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Pile the tender beef mixture onto the toasted rolls. Top generously with giardiniera to add a bright, zesty crunch.
- Serve: Serve the sandwiches immediately, spooning extra au jus over the beef and offering additional au jus on the side for dipping. Enjoy the classic Chicago beef sandwich experience at home.
Notes
- Use thinly sliced beef sirloin for quick cooking and tenderness; chuck roast works well too but slice thin.
- The giardiniera adds a spicy, pickled contrast crucial for authentic flavor.
- You can adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for a milder sandwich.
- Broiling the rolls instead of toasting in a pan gives an authentic crispiness and prevents sogginess.
- Leftover au jus can be refrigerated and reheated for dipping later.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
