Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

These Instant Pot Italian beef sandwiches are a hearty and satisfying version of the famous Chicago-style classic. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have tender, flavorful beef perfect for piling onto toasted rolls. The Instant Pot locks in flavor and moisture, yielding shredded beef that’s perfect for game day, busy weeknights, or casual get-togethers.

Top the sandwiches with provolone, tangy giardiniera, and pepperoncini peppers, then broil briefly to melt the cheese. Serve with a side of jus for dipping or spoon some directly over the beef for the signature “wet” style.

Italian Beef History and Popularity

The origin of Italian beef sandwiches is often debated, much like many iconic American foods. One popular story credits Al Ferrari, a Chicago street vendor who needed to stretch roasted beef to serve large crowds at events. He sliced the meat thin, seasoned it with “secret spices,” and served it on French bread. In 1938, with help from his sister Frances and brother-in-law Chris Pacelli, Ferrari opened the now-famous Al’s #1 Italian Beef.

Another claim points to Pasquale Scala of the Scala Packing Company. In the 1920s, Scala is said to have developed a similar sandwich using inexpensive cuts of beef, sliced thin and heavily seasoned, to serve in bulk. Regardless of which story is true, the sandwich has become a Chicago staple and remains one of the city’s most beloved street foods.

Ingredient Notes

• Chuck roast or boneless short ribs – Both become incredibly tender and shred easily.
• Garlic – Adds robust flavor to the cooking liquid.
• Beef stock + bouillon – Using both gives the jus extra depth.
• Pepperoncini juice – Brightens the beef and adds mild heat.
• Italian dressing mix – A classic shortcut that brings instant savory seasoning.
• Oregano and basil – Build on the Italian-style flavor.
• Sub rolls – Choose sturdy rolls that can handle juicy beef.
• Giardiniera – Chicago-style giardiniera adds crunch and tang.
• Provolone cheese – Melts beautifully over the warm beef.

Steps to Make Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

1. Cut the beef into large chunks and brown them in the Instant Pot.
2. Pour off excess drippings and add the garlic, stock, bouillon, pepperoncini juice, and seasonings.
3. Seal the lid and pressure cook until the beef is tender enough to shred.
4. Allow the pot to naturally release pressure before opening.
5. Shred the beef with forks.
6. Strain or separate the cooking liquid and return it to the pot to simmer briefly.
7. Assemble the sandwiches with shredded beef, provolone, pepperoncini, and giardiniera.
8. Broil until the cheese melts and serve with extra jus for dipping.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Italian beef. Add crushed red pepper flakes or use hot peppers instead of mild pepperoncini.
• Cheesy melt. Add extra provolone or mozzarella before broiling.
• Italian beef bowls. Serve the shredded beef over rice or roasted potatoes.
• Herby version. Stir in fresh basil or parsley before serving.
• Extra-juicy. Keep more of the cooking liquid and serve the sandwiches “wet.”

What to Serve With Italian Beef Sandwiches

• Ranch potato salad or classic potato and egg salad.
• Tangy coleslaw or creamy slaw.
• Classic macaroni salad.
• French fries or chips.
• Extra pickles or pepperoncini.