Savory Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches 🇮🇹🥖

Looking for a comforting meal that's easy to prepare? This Slow Cooker Italian Beef recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. The beef becomes incredibly tender as it simmers, soaking up a blend of savory herbs and spices, making it ideal for hearty sandwiches. Melted cheese and a side of flavorful dipping sauce take this dish over the top!

Ingredients

For the beef

• 3 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of onion salt
• 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 package (0.7 ounce) of Italian-style salad dressing mix
• 1 (5-pound) rump roast

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine water, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, onion salt, parsley, garlic powder, bay leaf, and salad dressing mix. Stir until well mixed and bring to a boil.

   🔥 Boiling the mixture first helps to enhance the flavors of the spices. The aroma alone will have you dreaming of Italian cuisine!

2. Place the rump roast in the slow cooker, and pour the hot salad dressing mixture over the top.

3. Cover and cook on Low for 10 to 12 hours, or on High for 4 to 5 hours.

   ⏰ Cooking it low and slow ensures that your meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 190°F for optimal shredding!

4. When finished, remove the bay leaf and shred the meat with a fork.

   🍴 Shredding may seem like a little work, but it allows the flavorful juices to coat every bite perfectly!

Serving Suggestions

Serve the shredded beef on crusty rolls, topped with melted cheese and your favorite peppers! Remember to save some of the cooking liquid for dipping!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra kick! 🔥
• Different Cut: Substitute the rump roast with chuck or brisket for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
• Vegetarian Option: For a plant-based twist, use jackfruit and the same spice mixture to create a similar flavor experience without the meat.

Tips & Tricks

• Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for making ahead! The flavors meld beautifully, and it just gets better over time.
• Leftover Magic: Use any leftover beef in tacos, nachos, or even pasta dishes for a quick and delicious meal.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Get ready to be the star of the barbecue or family feast with this incredible Italian Beef recipe! Buon Appetito! 🍽️