Name: Slow Cooker Italian Beef Subs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs chuck roast; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning mix; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup pepperoncini peppers with 2 tbsp juice; 6 hoagie rolls or sub sandwich buns; 6 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese (optional)

Slow Cooker Italian Beef Subs are a mouthwatering combination of tender shredded beef, zesty pepperoncini, and Italian spices, all piled onto crusty rolls and often topped with melty provolone or mozzarella cheese. I love how effortlessly the slow cooker brings out bold, savory flavors, making it the perfect hands-off meal for busy days. Slow Cooker Italian Beef Subs

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple yet delivers a deep, complex flavor that tastes like I’ve been in the kitchen all day. The beef becomes fall-apart tender, soaking up all the Italian seasonings and pepper juices. It’s the kind of recipe I rely on when I want comfort food with minimal effort. Plus, it’s crowd-pleasing—perfect for game days, gatherings, or an easy weeknight dinner with leftovers for lunch.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chuck roast
Italian seasoning mix
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Beef broth
Pepperoncini peppers (with some juice)
Hoagie rolls or sub sandwich buns
Provolone or mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)

Directions

I start by placing the chuck roast in the slow cooker.
I sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the meat.
I pour in the beef broth and add the pepperoncini peppers along with a splash of the juice for that signature tangy kick.
I cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
Once cooked, I shred the beef right in the slow cooker and mix it with the juices.
I toast the hoagie rolls, pile on the hot shredded beef, and top with cheese if I’m using it.
I often place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese and crisp up the bread.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours (on low) or 4–5 hours (on high)
Total time: Approximately 8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add sliced onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for more veggie flavor.
If I want extra heat, I use hot pepperoncini or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
I’ve tried it with giardiniera for a Chicago-style twist—it’s fantastic.
For a low-carb version, I skip the bun and serve the beef in lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice.
I swap the cheese occasionally for spicy pepper jack or smoked gouda for a different vibe.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I warm the beef in a saucepan over low heat or microwave it with a splash of broth to keep it juicy.
This also freezes well—I keep it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make this recipe spicier?

I like to add more pepperoncini or a spoonful of their juice, and sometimes I’ll throw in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to boost the heat.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, I’ve used rump roast or bottom round roast in place of chuck roast, though chuck remains the most tender and flavorful option.

What kind of bread works best for these subs?

I prefer crusty hoagie rolls or French bread—they hold up well to the juicy beef and don’t get soggy too quickly.

Do I need to sear the meat before slow cooking?

I usually don’t, but searing the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker does add a deeper flavor if I have extra time.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make the beef a day ahead—the flavors deepen overnight, and it reheats beautifully.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Italian Beef Subs are a delicious, no-fuss meal that I keep coming back to. The combination of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors tucked into a warm roll hits all the right notes. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every time with minimal effort and maximum comfort.