Introduction

A true Midwestern delicacy, the Illinois Italian Beef Sandwich is a masterpiece of thinly sliced, marinated roast beef, grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill. Using the power of high-temperature searing, we lock in every ounce of flavor and juice, creating tender, juicy beef layered onto a crusty Italian roll and topped with zesty giardiniera or sweet peppers. This sandwich is ideal for cookouts, game day, or any time you crave an incredibly delicious bite!

Ingredients

• 3 lbs beef top sirloin or beef chuck roast
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 Italian-style rolls
• 1 cup sweet peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup giardiniera (spicy or mild)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
3. Let the grill preheat for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

1. In a bowl, mix the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the beef in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.

Step 3: Sear and Cook the Beef

1. Place the marinated beef on the center grill grate and sear each side for 2-3 minutes for a deep, caramelized crust.
2. Move the beef to the outer flat griddle cooktop and cook until the internal temperature reaches 15°F below your desired doneness.
3. Remove the beef from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Grill the Peppers and Rolls

1. Add butter to the flat cooktop and grill the sweet peppers until soft and slightly charred.
2. Toast the Italian rolls on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Thinly slice the rested beef and dip in the reserved beef broth.
2. Layer the beef onto the toasted rolls.
3. Top with giardiniera and grilled sweet peppers.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Let the beef rest before slicing to retain its juices.
• For an extra juicy sandwich, briefly dip the entire roll in the beef broth.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Balance flavors by using mild or spicy giardiniera based on preference.
• Always remove the meat from the grill 15°F before desired doneness.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade and use a spicy giardiniera for extra heat.
2. Classic Chicago Style: Dunk the fully assembled sandwich in au jus before serving.
3. Cheesy Delight: Melt provolone or mozzarella cheese over the sliced beef before assembling.
4. Garlic Butter Infused: Brush the Italian rolls with garlic butter before toasting.
5. Mushroom & Onion Medley: Sauté mushrooms and onions on the flat cooktop and add them as toppings.

Conclusion

The Illinois Italian Beef Sandwich is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that captures the flavors and traditions of the Midwest. By utilizing the Arteflame grill, we achieve that unmatched sear and tenderness, ensuring every bite is loaded with bold, savory goodness. Fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and indulge in one of the best sandwiches ever created.

Best Pairings

• Sweet potato fries grilled on the Arteflame
• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
• Ice-cold beer or a classic soda
• Chocolate chip cookies for dessert