Hot Beef Sandwich
Tender, slow-cooked beef, shredded and piled high on a soft roll, then smothered in its own rich, savory gravy. This classic diner-style sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 160 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Season and Sear the Beef
- b.Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with 1 teaspoon of salt and 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper.
- c.Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- d.Carefully place the roast in the pot and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms. Do not overcrowd the pan. Once seared, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Create Gravy Base
- b.Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
- c.Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- d.Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. This will form a paste (roux).
- 3
Step 3
- a.Deglaze and Simmer
- b.Slowly pour in about one cup of the beef broth, whisking constantly to break up any lumps and create a smooth base.
- c.Gradually whisk in the remaining beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, bay leaf, and the remaining 0.5 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Slow Cook the Beef
- b.Return the seared beef to the pot, along with any accumulated juices from the plate. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the roast.
- c.Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is fall-apart tender when prodded with a fork.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Shred Beef and Finish Gravy
- b.Carefully transfer the cooked beef to a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- c.Remove and discard the bay leaf from the pot. Skim any excess fat from the surface of the gravy if desired.
- d.Return the shredded beef to the gravy in the pot. Stir to combine and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing the beef to absorb the flavorful gravy.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Assemble the Sandwiches
- b.While the beef simmers, split the hoagie rolls. If desired, spread butter on the cut sides and toast them in a hot pan or under a broiler until golden brown.
- c.Using tongs, pile a generous amount of the shredded beef onto the bottom half of each roll. Spoon extra gravy over the meat.
- d.Place the top half of the roll on and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best results, use a well-marbled cut like chuck roast, brisket, or round roast. The fat renders during slow cooking, making the meat incredibly tender and flavorful.
- 2Don't skip searing the beef. This step builds a deep, savory flavor base (the Maillard reaction) for the entire dish.
- 3Use a sturdy, high-quality roll like a hoagie, kaiser, or ciabatta that can hold up to the juicy beef and gravy without falling apart.
- 4Toasting the buns with a little butter adds flavor and creates a barrier to prevent them from getting soggy too quickly.
- 5This recipe is perfect for making ahead. The flavor of the beef and gravy deepens overnight. Gently reheat on the stove before serving.
- 6For a thicker gravy, make a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water and whisk it into the simmering liquid during the final 10 minutes of cooking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño along with the onions for a touch of heat.
Vegetable BoostVegetable Boost
Sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms or one sliced bell pepper with the onions for added flavor and texture.
Italian StyleItalian Style
Substitute the thyme and bay leaf with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil. Serve on a crusty Italian roll with melted provolone cheese.
BBQ TwistBBQ Twist
Stir in 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce along with the Worcestershire sauce for a tangy, smoky flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair, growth, and overall function. A single serving of this sandwich provides a significant portion of your daily protein needs.
Rich in Iron
This dish is a great source of heme iron, a type of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia, helping to maintain energy levels and cognitive function.
B-Vitamin Powerhouse
Beef provides essential B vitamins, including B12, niacin, and B6. These vitamins are vital for converting food into energy, supporting brain health, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Frequently asked questions
Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which becomes incredibly tender and flavorful after slow cooking. Other good options include bottom round roast or brisket.