This portillo’s italian beef recipe recreates the iconic Chicago sandwich at home. Juicy, slow-cooked beef, rich seasoned jus, and crusty Italian rolls come together for a bold, comforting meal that tastes like it came straight from a classic beef stand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep, savory flavor that improves as it cooks slowly
Tender beef that shreds easily and stays juicy
Simple ingredients you can find anywhere
Perfect for sandwiches, parties, or family dinners

Ingredients

1.4 kg (3 lb) beef chuck roast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
750 ml (3 cups) beef broth
1 cup water
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 bay leaf
6–8 Italian rolls
Giardiniera or sliced hot peppers (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides.

Remove the beef and add sliced onions. Cook until soft and lightly golden.
Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Return the beef to the pot and pour in beef broth and water.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and all dried spices. Add bay leaf.

Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then cover with a lid.
Reduce heat to low and cook for 3 to 4 hours, turning once.
Remove beef and shred it using two forks while warm.
Return shredded beef to the pot and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.

Slice Italian rolls and dip them briefly in the hot jus.
Pile beef onto rolls and top with giardiniera if desired.
Serve immediately while hot and juicy.

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Helpful Tips

Slice or shred beef while hot for easier handling
Let beef rest in the jus before serving for extra flavor
Dip rolls quickly to avoid sogginess
Taste the broth and adjust salt before serving

Variations

Use a slow cooker for hands-off cooking
Add sliced bell peppers for a sweeter flavor
Make it mild by skipping red pepper flakes
Serve over rice instead of bread

Storage & Reheating

Store beef and broth together in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until hot.

What to Serve With It

French fries or potato wedges
Simple green salad
Pickles or coleslaw
Roasted vegetables

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Boiling instead of simmering the beef
Skipping the browning step
Over-soaking the bread
Under-seasoning the broth

Conclusion

This portillo’s italian beef recipe delivers bold Chicago flavor in a simple, home-friendly way. Slow cooking creates tender beef and rich jus every time. Once you try it, this sandwich will become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

FAQ

What is an Italian beef sandwich?

An Italian beef sandwich is a classic Chicago-style dish. It has thinly sliced roast beef on a French roll, dipped in au jus. It’s known for its tender meat, rich flavor, and toppings like sweet peppers or hot giardiniera.

What cut of beef works best for italian beef sandwich?

Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.

How do you keep a hot italian beef sandwich juicy?

Always store and serve the beef in its cooking broth.

Can I make this chicago beef recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day after flavors develop.

How to make italian beef less spicy?

Reduce red pepper flakes and skip hot giardiniera.

How is Portillo’s Italian beef different from other beef sandwiches?

Portillo’s Italian beef stands out for its unique seasoning blend and slow-cooked meat. The restaurant’s special spice mix and cooking method make the meat moist and flavorful. This sets it apart from other beef sandwiches.

What cut of beef works best for Italian beef?

Top round, chuck roast, and sirloin tip are the top choices for Italian beef. These cuts are tender when slow-cooked and absorb seasonings well. Top round is a favorite because it’s lean yet flavorful.

Can I make Portillo’s Italian beef at home?

Yes, you can make Portillo’s Italian beef at home. You’ll need a slow cooker, quality beef, Italian seasonings, and French rolls. Following a detailed recipe and paying attention to cooking times and temperatures is key.

What are the different ways to serve an Italian beef sandwich?

Italian beef sandwiches can be served in three ways: dry, wet, and dipped. Each style offers a different level of moisture and flavor. You can customize the sandwich to your liking.

How long can I store leftover Italian beef?

Cooked Italian beef can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, use low heat and add some au jus to prevent drying out.

What are traditional toppings for an Italian beef sandwich?

Traditional toppings include sweet peppers and hot giardiniera. Sweet peppers add a mild flavor, while hot giardiniera adds spice. Some like to add provolone cheese or mix sweet and hot peppers for more flavor.

What type of bread is used for an authentic Italian beef sandwich?

An authentic Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich uses a sturdy French roll. The bread should be crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. It holds the meat and toppings without getting soggy.

Is giardiniera difficult to make at home?

Making giardiniera at home is relatively simple. You’ll need fresh vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, celery, and jalapeños. Add vinegar, oil, and spices, then marinate them to develop a tangy, spicy flavor.

Can I make a vegetarian version of an Italian beef sandwich?

Yes, you can make vegetarian versions of Italian beef using jackfruit, seitan, or plant-based meat substitutes. Season them like the original and cook with au jus to mimic the texture and flavor.

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portillo’s italian beef recipe: How to Make It Perfect

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