Braised Beef Sandwiches Recipe
Tender, juicy braised beef piled onto toasted bread and topped with your favorite condiments—these Braised Beef Sandwiches are a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Braised Beef:
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast (or brisket)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional; substitute with additional broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches:
- 6 hoagie rolls, ciabatta buns, or your favorite sandwich bread
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella)
- 1 cup sautéed onions or caramelized onions (optional)
- 1 cup arugula or spinach (optional)
- Horseradish sauce, mustard, or mayonnaise for spreading
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 3–4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the sliced onions and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
3. Braise the Beef
- Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
- Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 3–4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
4. Shred the Beef
- Remove the beef from the pot and shred it with two forks.
- Skim excess fat from the braising liquid. Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir to coat in the flavorful juices.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Toast the hoagie rolls or buns until golden brown.
- Layer the shredded beef onto the bread. Top with shredded cheese, sautéed onions, arugula, or any desired toppings.
- Spread horseradish sauce, mustard, or mayo on the top bun.
6. Serve
- Serve the sandwiches warm with a side of chips, coleslaw, or a simple salad.
Tips
- Make Ahead: The beef can be cooked a day in advance. Store it in the braising liquid and reheat gently on the stovetop before assembling sandwiches.
- Slow Cooker Option: Sear the beef and sauté the onions, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add the broth, wine, and seasonings, and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–6 hours.
- Cheese Melt: After assembling, pop the sandwiches under the broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
Enjoy these hearty, flavorful sandwiches—they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family! Let me know if you’d like a variation, like a BBQ version or Italian-style twist. 😊
