Get ready to elevate your Sunday dinner with a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience! Our Sunday Slow Cooker Italian Beef is a hearty, flavorful delight that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender, juicy beef infused with zesty Italian spices, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker while you go about your day. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress without the stress. Ready to discover the secret to the ultimate comfort food? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to make your Sundays unforgettable!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 1 can beef broth (15 oz)
- 1 jar pepperoncini peppers (16 oz)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hoagie rolls for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Take the 3 pounds of beef chuck roast and trim any excess fat if necessary. This will help reduce the grease in your final dish.
- Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the seasoned beef chuck roast for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it develops a nice brown crust. This step is optional but adds depth of flavor to the final dish.
- Once the beef is seared, transfer it to your slow cooker. Make sure to place it in the center of the cooker for even cooking.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of Italian dressing mix evenly over the beef roast. This will infuse the meat with a robust Italian flavor as it cooks.
- Next, pour the can of beef broth (15 oz) over the roast. This will help keep the meat moist and provide a flavorful base for the dish.
- Open the jar of pepperoncini peppers and add them to the slow cooker, including some of the juice for added flavor. This will give the dish a slight tang and spice.
- Slice the bell pepper and scatter the slices over the top of the roast in the slow cooker. The bell pepper will add sweetness and texture to the dish.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. The long, slow cooking process will make the beef tender and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After 8 hours, check the beef for doneness. It should be fork-tender and easy to shred. If it’s not quite there, you can let it cook for an additional hour.
- Once the beef is cooked, use two forks to shred the meat right in the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices and vegetables. This will ensure every bite is flavorful.
- To serve, take a hoagie roll and fill it generously with the shredded Italian beef mixture. You can add extra pepperoncini or some of the cooking juices for additional flavor.
- Enjoy your Sunday Slow Cooker Italian Beef sandwiches with your favorite sides, such as a salad or chips!
Tips
- Sear for Flavor: Although searing the beef chuck roast is optional, taking the time to brown the meat first adds a rich depth of flavor that enhances the final dish. Don’t skip this step if you want that extra layer of taste!
- Layering Ingredients: When adding the ingredients to the slow cooker, layer them strategically. Place the beef in the center, followed by the Italian dressing mix, broth, and then the peppers. This ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a bit more heat, add extra pepperoncini peppers or even a splash of hot sauce to the slow cooker. Adjust according to your spice tolerance for a personalized touch!
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the beef rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more succulent.
- Serve with Style: For an extra special touch, toast your hoagie rolls before filling them with the shredded beef. A crispy exterior paired with the tender meat creates a delightful textural contrast.
- Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them, then pop everything in the slow cooker in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.
- Leftover Magic: If you have any leftovers, they make fantastic sandwiches or can be used as a topping for nachos, pasta, or even pizzas. Get creative and enjoy the flavors in new ways!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
