If you are looking for a delicious crowd-pleaser that’s packed with bold flavors and tender meat, the Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe is exactly what you need in your meal rotation. This recipe transforms a simple beef chuck roast into juicy, melt-in-your-mouth sandwiches infused with the tangy kick of pepperoncini and a perfect blend of Italian-inspired seasonings. Whether you’re preparing for game day, a family dinner, or just craving something hearty and satisfying, these sandwiches are effortless to make and will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two side-by-side photos on a white marbled surface. On the left, a white plate holds a single raw steak with deep red color and white marbling of fat visible throughout the meat. There are an onion and green bell pepper placed nearby on the marble surface. On the right, a metal pan contains the same steak now cooked with a brownish color, showing a slightly crispy texture on top and some juice pooling around the steak. The pan is shiny and round, emphasizing the cooked texture of the meat inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe is in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every item plays a crucial role: from the tender chuck roast providing hearty richness, to the pepperoncini peppers adding a zesty vinegar punch, and the fresh garlic and onions layering in those deep, savory notes that make Italian beef so iconic.

3 lbs beef chuck roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, becoming tender and shredding easily for the sandwiches.
Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the beef and balances the tangy peppers.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the meat.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the beef for a deeply caramelized crust.
1 yellow onion, sliced: Contributes sweetness and moisture to the beef as it cooks.
1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a mild pepperiness and vibrant color.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the beef with that classic aromatic Italian flavor.
8 whole pepperoncini peppers: The star ingredient providing a tangy, slightly spicy kick.
1/2 cup pepperoncini juice: Brings a bright acidity that tenderizes and flavors the beef.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Introduces umami depth and balancing saltiness.
1 cup beef broth: Keeps the beef moist and flavorful during pressure cooking.
6 hoagie rolls: Perfectly sturdy to hold the juicy beef without getting soggy.
4 tablespoons salted butter: Merged with garlic to brush the rolls for a golden, flavorful crust.
2 garlic cloves, grated: Fresh garlic punch for the butter spread.
8 slices provolone cheese, cut in half: Melts beautifully over the beef for creamy richness.
1/2 cup giardiniera, chopped: Crunchy, spicy pickled veggies that cut through the richness.
1/4 cup hot banana peppers: Adds a fiery finish on top for those who like extra heat.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Beef

Start by seasoning your chuck roast generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Using the ‘saute’ function on your Instant Pot, heat the olive oil until it shimmers, and carefully add the roast. Sear each side for 4 to 5 minutes until you get a rich golden-brown crust. This step is crucial for locking in flavor and adding that irresistible savory depth that makes the beef special.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Liquids

Once the beef is beautifully browned, layer in the sliced yellow onion, green bell pepper, minced garlic, and the whole pepperoncini peppers right on top. Pour in the pepperoncini juice, soy sauce, and beef broth to create a flavorful braising liquid that will infuse the meat throughout cooking.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Beef

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure for 1 hour. When the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally to keep the beef tender and juicy. This helps break down the connective tissues, making the meat fall-apart perfect.

Step 4: Shred the Beef and Reserve Juices

Carefully open the lid and transfer the roast to a cutting board. Shred the beef with two forks, then return it to the pot along with the juices. Reserve 1 to 2 cups of the savory broth for dipping your sandwiches later. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter and Assemble

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a small saucepan, gently melt the salted butter and simmer with grated garlic until fragrant and the raw edge disappears. Slice the hoagie rolls if not pre-sliced, then pile on generous layers of shredded beef, provolone slices, and chopped giardiniera.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Serve

Brush the sandwiches thoroughly with garlic butter on all sides, then arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake for 7 to 8 minutes, just until the rolls turn golden-brown and the cheese melts into gooey perfection. Once out of the oven, crown each sandwich with the hot banana peppers and serve with the reserved beef jus for dipping. This final step transforms these sandwiches into a spectacular, savory experience.

How to Serve Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe

The image shows two metal pots placed side by side on a white marbled surface. The left pot contains raw meat topped with green chili peppers, yellow peppers, and sliced white onion rings, creating a mix of brown, green, yellow, and white colors in a layered arrangement. The right pot holds cooked, shredded brown meat in a rich brown liquid with small pieces of green vegetables mixed in, giving a textured and tender appearance to the dish. The metal pots have a shiny finish that contrasts with the food inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your Italian beef sandwiches with hot banana peppers adds a punch of heat that perfectly balances the savory, tangy richness of the meat. You can also add extra giardiniera or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of freshness and color. These little touches bring the sandwich from great to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

Because these sandwiches are so flavorful and filling, pair them with simple sides like crisp green salads, baked potato wedges, or even classic coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. If you want to keep up with the Italian flair, a side of roasted vegetables or a light pasta salad would complement the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the beef as a platter for family-style gatherings with crusty Italian bread beside a warm pot of au jus for dipping. Another idea is to load the shredded beef onto toasted crostini with provolone and giardiniera for elegant appetizers that capture the essence of the Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe in bite-sized form.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian beef can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the beef separated from the bread to avoid sogginess, and store the dipping jus alongside to revive the flavor when ready to enjoy again.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, shredded beef freezes beautifully. Place the meat and its cooking juices in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat your frozen or refrigerated beef slowly in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of the reserved au jus or beef broth to keep it moist. This prevents drying out and keeps the shredded beef juicy and tender, just like the first time you made this Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, while chuck roast is ideal for shredding due to its marbling and tenderness, you can also use brisket or a bottom round roast. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly if needed to achieve the same tender texture.

Is it necessary to use pepperoncini juice in the recipe?

Pepperoncini juice is essential for giving the beef that signature tangy, slightly spicy flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with a mix of vinegar and a bit of mild hot sauce, but it won’t be quite the same classic taste.

Can I make these sandwiches without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can slow cook the beef in a slow cooker for about 8 hours on low or braise it in the oven at 300°F for 3 to 4 hours covered. The key is low and slow cooking for tender, flavorful meat.

What type of bread works best for these sandwiches?

Hearty hoagie rolls or Italian sandwich rolls are best because they are sturdy enough to hold the moist beef and toppings without turning soggy. You want rolls that toast nicely and have a slightly chewy texture.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Increase the amount of hot banana peppers, add extra crushed red pepper flakes into the beef cooking liquid, or top with spicy giardiniera. Just adjust to your personal heat preference to keep the balance of flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe is one of those magical dishes that tastes like it took hours of effort but really comes together in a flash. With juicy, tender beef, layers of bold Italian flavors, and that glorious melty cheese, these sandwiches are destined to become your new go-to. Gather your friends or family, whip up this recipe, and watch everyone fall in love bite after bite. Trust me, once you try it, this sandwich will be a permanent favorite in your kitchen!

Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need