Heavenly Italian Beef for Football Games, Parties, and More!
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s been cherished and celebrated by family and friends alike, this Italian Beef recipe is a surefire winner. With its tender, flavorful beef and a zesty kick, it’s perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or even a cozy night in. Simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this dish is a favorite for football games, potlucks, and large parties. Here’s how you can whip up this delightful meal that’s guaranteed to make your taste buds dance!
Ingredients
- 5-6 pounds of trimmed chuck roast
- 1 can (32 ounces) beef broth
- 1 cup beer (choose a mild or your favorite brew)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 jar (16 ounces) pepperoncinis (drain the peppers but keep the juice)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or to taste)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- Rolls and mozzarella cheese slices (for serving, if desired)
Equipment
- 1 large roasting pan with a cover
- 1 oven
Instructions
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Preparation:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature ensures that your beef will cook slowly and become tender while absorbing all the rich flavors.
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Cut the Beef:
- Trim any excess fat from the chuck roast. Cut the roast into 1-inch cubes. This step helps the beef cook evenly and allows the flavors to penetrate each piece.
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Season the Beef:
- Place the beef cubes into a large roasting pan. Generously sprinkle Italian seasoning over the meat, and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. The seasoning will enhance the beef’s natural flavors.
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Prepare the Liquids:
- Drain the pepperoncinis into a strainer set over a bowl. This will catch the juice, which you’ll combine with beef broth and beer. Mix these liquids together to create a flavorful cooking base for the beef.
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Layer and Pour:
- Slice the onion and scatter it over the seasoned beef in the roasting pan. Pour the combined liquid mixture over the beef, ensuring it covers most of the meat. Finally, top with the drained pepperoncinis, arranging them evenly over the surface.
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Cook:
- Cover the roasting pan with its lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for about 4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
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Finish and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the stems from the pepperoncinis. Shred the beef with two forks, mixing it thoroughly with the juices. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can create a slurry with cornstarch and water, then stir it into the cooking liquid, simmering until thickened.
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Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Italian Beef on your favorite rolls with a slice of mozzarella cheese melted on top for a classic and delicious sandwich. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed on its own or over rice for a hearty meal.
Tips and Variations
- For Extra Flavor: You can add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the roasting pan for additional texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Just let it cool, refrigerate, and reheat before serving. The flavors often deepen overnight.
- Freezing: Italian Beef freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240.4
- Fat: 9.3 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4.2 grams
- Cholesterol: 99.8 milligrams
- Sodium: 931.7 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 5.3 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 2.4 grams
- Protein: 33 grams
Whether you’re serving a crowd or just treating yourself, this Italian Beef recipe is sure to be a hit. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it a perfect choice for any occasion, ensuring that everyone will leave the table satisfied. Enjoy! 🍽️🥖🧀
