Description
These Italian Beef Sandwiches feature tender slow-cooked beef infused with Italian herbs and savory spices, topped with melted shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) for a warm and comforting meal. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, this recipe delivers a rich, flavorful experience with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Seasonings
- 2 to 3 lbs beef roast (such as chuck roast)
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, and mixed herbs)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
Sandwich Components
- Sandwich rolls or hoagie buns (4-6, sturdy type)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
- 1/2 cup sweet peppers, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef roast generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly minced garlic to create a flavorful crust. This step helps build the base flavor while the beef cooks slowly.
- Slow Cook the Beef: Place the seasoned beef in a slow cooker or heavy pot. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce and beef broth to keep the meat moist. Cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender enough to shred easily.
- Shred and Simmer: Once the beef is cooked, shred it directly in the cooking liquid using two forks. Simmer the shredded meat for an additional 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors thoroughly.
- Toast the Rolls and Melt Cheese: Slice sandwich rolls or buns and lightly toast them to add crunch. Pile the shredded beef onto each roll and top with shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Place under a broiler or in a hot oven briefly until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.
- Assemble and Serve: Add optional sweet peppers or preferred garnishes on top of the beef and cheese. Serve the sandwiches while warm for the best taste and texture experience.
Notes
- Choose chuck roast or bottom round for the best results when slow cooking and shredding.
- Do not skip adding beef broth to keep the meat juicy and create a delicious sauce.
- Cook the beef slowly at low temperatures to achieve a tender texture.
- Toasting the sandwich rolls adds crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Add shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) at the last moment to enjoy its melty goodness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 to 8 hours (slow cooker low) or 3 to 4 hours (oven slow roast)
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Slow cooking and baking (broiling to melt cheese)
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Italian beef sandwiches, slow cooked beef, family dinner, mozzarella cheese sandwich, easy Italian recipe