Savory Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches
Indulge in the hearty flavors of our Savory Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches. This recipe features a tender, shredded beef roast marinated in a tangy blend of Italian dressing and brown sugar, creating a mouthwatering filling perfect for lunch or a satisfying snack. The slow cooking process transforms the beef into a succulent treat, while the warm buns perfectly complement the rich flavors. Ideal for gatherings or a comforting family meal, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its robust taste and ease of preparation. Share these delicious sandwiches with loved ones and enjoy the simplicity of a meal made with love.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless beef roast
3-4 lb (trimmed of fat)
Brown sugar
1/4 cup (packed)
Italian dressing
16 ounces (bottle)
Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons (none)
Hamburger buns
12 (split)
Instructions
1
Begin by spraying the inside of a 3- to 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2
If the beef roast is tied with strings or netting, carefully remove them to ensure even cooking.
3
Place the trimmed beef roast into the slow cooker, ensuring it sits flat for best results.
4
Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the top of the roast, allowing the sweetness to infuse the meat.
5
Pour the entire bottle of Italian dressing over the beef, ensuring it is well-coated for maximum flavor.
6
Cover the slow cooker and set it to the Low heat setting. Cook for 10 to 12 hours, allowing the beef to become tender and flavorful.
7
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
8
Using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat.
9
Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and add the Italian seasoning, mixing thoroughly to combine the flavors.
10
When ready to serve, use a slotted spoon to fill each hamburger bun with approximately 1/3 cup of the tangy beef mixture.
11
Serving suggestion: drizzle with additional cooking juices for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Slow Cooker Italian Beef?
It is a hearty dish featuring tender shredded beef roast marinated in a tangy blend of Italian dressing and brown sugar.
What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
A 3-4 lb boneless beef roast is recommended for this recipe.
How long does it take to cook in the slow cooker?
The beef should be cooked on the Low heat setting for 10 to 12 hours.
What size slow cooker is needed?
A 3- to 4-quart slow cooker is the ideal size for this recipe.
Should I trim the fat from the beef?
Yes, the beef roast should be trimmed of fat before being placed in the slow cooker.
Do I need to remove strings or netting from the roast?
Yes, carefully remove any strings or netting to ensure the beef cooks evenly.
How much brown sugar is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar.
What type of dressing is required?
A 16-ounce bottle of Italian dressing is used to coat the beef.
When should I add the Italian seasoning?
Add the Italian seasoning after the beef has been cooked and shredded, then mix thoroughly.
How many sandwiches does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make approximately 12 sandwiches.
How do I shred the beef?
Once cooked, place the beef on a cutting board and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
What kind of buns are recommended?
The recipe suggests using 12 split hamburger buns.
How do I prevent the beef from sticking to the slow cooker?
Spray the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray before adding the ingredients.
How much beef mixture goes into each bun?
Each bun should be filled with approximately 1/3 cup of the shredded beef mixture.
Can I add extra flavor when serving?
Yes, you can drizzle the sandwiches with additional cooking juices for an extra burst of flavor.
What is the heat setting for the slow cooker?
The slow cooker should be set to the Low heat setting.
Is this recipe suitable for gatherings?
Yes, it is ideal for gatherings or a comforting family meal due to its ease of preparation.
Should I use a slotted spoon for serving?
Yes, a slotted spoon helps you fill the buns without making them too soggy from excess liquid.
What should I do with excess fat found during shredding?
Any excess fat should be discarded while you are shredding the meat with forks.
Can I substitute the Italian seasoning?
While Italian seasoning is recommended, you could use a blend of dried oregano and basil if needed.
Does the roast need to be flat in the cooker?
Yes, ensuring the roast sits flat helps achieve the best cooking results.
Is the brown sugar essential?
The brown sugar provides a sweetness that balances the tanginess of the Italian dressing.
How is the dressing applied?
Pour the entire 16-ounce bottle over the roast to ensure it is well-coated.
Is this a spicy dish?
No, it is a savory and tangy dish, but the spice level depends on the specific brand of Italian dressing used.
How much Italian seasoning is needed?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning.
Can I use frozen beef?
It is best to use a thawed roast to ensure it cooks safely and evenly within the 10-12 hour window.
What is the preparation for the brown sugar?
The brown sugar should be packed when measured and then sprinkled evenly over the roast.
Is this recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, it is very simple, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal active preparation time.
Should the buns be toasted?
The recipe mentions split buns, but you can toast them if you prefer a crunchier texture.
Can I make this in a larger slow cooker?
Yes, though a 3-4 quart size is standard, a larger one will work as long as the liquid covers the bottom.