Traeger Italian Beef Sandwiches are a smoky, savory twist on the classic Chicago-style sandwich. Slow-cooked beef is infused with rich Italian seasoning and the deep flavor of wood smoke, then piled high on a toasted roll with spicy giardiniera and savory au jus for dipping. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or just craving a hearty, satisfying meal, this Traeger-smoked Italian beef will not disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoky and flavorful – The Traeger grill imparts a deep, smoky flavor to the beef, elevating the classic Italian beef sandwich.
Tender and juicy – Slow cooking ensures the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Perfect for meal prep – You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Customizable – Adjust the seasoning, spice level, and toppings to suit your taste.
Restaurant-quality at home – No need to head to Chicago; make the best Italian beef sandwich right in your backyard.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Beef chuck roast
Beef broth
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Salt
Worcestershire sauce
Giardiniera (spicy or mild)
Hoagie rolls
Provolone cheese (optional)
Butter (for toasting rolls)

Directions

Preheat the Traeger – Set your Traeger grill to 225°F and allow it to preheat.
Season the beef – Rub the chuck roast with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Smoke the beef – Place the beef on the Traeger grill and smoke for 3-4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Slow cook with broth – Transfer the beef to a foil pan, add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, cover tightly with foil, and continue cooking at 300°F for another 2-3 hours until fork-tender.
Shred the beef – Remove the beef from the broth, shred it using two forks, and return it to the juices to soak up the flavor.
Toast the rolls – Butter and toast the hoagie rolls on the grill for a few minutes until golden brown.
Assemble the sandwiches – Load each roll with shredded beef, top with giardiniera, and add provolone cheese if desired.
Serve with au jus – Strain the cooking juices and serve as a dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8 sandwiches
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick – Use hot giardiniera and add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Cheesy Melt – Top with provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar and melt under the broiler.
Garlic Butter Rolls – Brush the hoagie rolls with garlic butter before toasting.
Extra Smoky – Use hickory or mesquite wood pellets for a bolder smoke flavor.
Low-Carb Option – Serve the shredded beef over cauliflower rice or in a lettuce wrap instead of a roll.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover beef in an airtight container with the juices for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container with some broth for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat with a bit of broth or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I keep the beef from drying out?

Keeping the beef in its cooking juices helps retain moisture. Reheat with extra broth to maintain tenderness.

What’s the best cut of beef for Italian beef?

Chuck roast is ideal because it has enough fat and connective tissue to become tender when slow-cooked.

Can I make this recipe without a Traeger?

Yes! You can use a slow cooker or oven. Roast the beef at 275°F for 4-5 hours until tender.

What type of wood pellets should I use?

Hickory, oak, or mesquite pellets add a deep, smoky flavor that complements the beef.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors develop even more overnight, making it a great make-ahead meal.

What’s the difference between Italian beef and French dip?

Italian beef is seasoned with Italian spices and typically served with giardiniera, while French dip has a simpler, beefy au jus.

What bread works best for Italian beef sandwiches?

Soft, sturdy hoagie rolls or French rolls hold up well to the juicy beef and dipping sauce.

How spicy is giardiniera?

It depends on the variety. Mild giardiniera is tangy and slightly spicy, while hot versions pack a real punch.

Can I use pre-sliced deli beef?

You can, but it won’t have the same tender, juicy texture as slow-cooked shredded beef.

How do I make this a full meal?

Serve with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Traeger Italian Beef Sandwiches take the classic Chicago favorite to the next level with rich, smoky flavor and tender, juicy beef. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Try different variations and enjoy the best homemade Italian beef sandwiches with your own twist!