Chicago Italian Beef and Pizza: A Culinary Deep Dive into the Windy City’s Most Iconic Eats
Chicago is a city that takes its food very seriously, and two of its most beloved dishes are Italian beef sandwiches and Chicago-style pizza. These aren’t just meals—they’re part of the city’s identity, deeply rooted in history and local culture.
From thinly sliced, slow-cooked beef dripping with au jus to deep-dish pizza packed with layers of cheese, sauce, and crust, Chicago’s food scene is legendary. Whether you’re a lifelong Chicagoan or a visitor looking for an authentic taste of the city, Chicago Italian beef and pizza should be at the top of your must-try list.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
✅ The history and origins of these legendary dishes
✅ How to make authentic Italian beef and deep-dish pizza at home
✅ Where to find the best beef sandwiches and pizza in the city
✅ Pro tips, serving suggestions, and FAQs to enhance your experience
Let’s dig in!
Introduction to Chicago Italian Beef and Pizza
Chicago’s food culture is a melting pot of flavors, history, and tradition. From the stockyards of the early 1900s to today’s bustling food scene, the city has perfected two iconic dishes that are loved across the country—Italian beef and Chicago-style pizza.
What Makes Chicago Italian Beef and Pizza So Special?
What’s the secret behind these two famous dishes? Flavor and tradition.
- Italian beef is slow-roasted, thinly sliced, and dunked in rich au jus, creating an unforgettable combination of tenderness and flavor.
- Chicago pizza comes in two equally legendary styles—the deep-dish variety that’s thick and cheesy and the thin, tavern-style that’s crispy and cut into squares.
Both dishes have stood the test of time, becoming symbols of Chicago’s blue-collar roots and love for bold, satisfying flavors.
The History and Evolution of Chicago’s Food Scene
Chicago’s food culture evolved alongside its immigrant communities. Italians who settled in the city in the early 20th century brought with them a love for bold, meaty, and saucy dishes. This influence led to:
🥩 The creation of Italian beef, a dish that maximized tough, inexpensive cuts of meat by slow-cooking them until tender.
🍕 The rise of Chicago-style pizza, which took traditional pizza recipes and transformed them into deep, indulgent creations.
These dishes became cornerstones of Chicago’s food culture, served at family-owned restaurants, street-side stands, and high-end eateries alike.
Why These Two Dishes Define Chicago Italian Beef and Pizza Culinary Identity
Chicago is fiercely proud of its local foods. You won’t find Chicago Italian beef or authentic deep-dish pizza done the same way anywhere else in the world.
Why? Because Chicagoans take food authenticity seriously. Restaurants follow long-standing traditions, and locals have strong opinions on how these dishes should be eaten (we’ll get into that later!).
These aren’t just meals—they’re a way of life in Chicago. Whether you’re indulging in a soaked, spicy Italian beef sandwich or savoring the deep layers of a buttery deep-dish pizza, you’re tasting a piece of Chicago’s rich history.
## **The History of Italian Beef in Chicago**
No discussion of *Chicago Italian beef and pizza* is complete without diving into the **rich history of Italian beef**. This legendary sandwich has been a staple of the city’s food scene for **nearly a century**, evolving from a humble **working-class meal** to a **national sensation**.
### **The Origins: How Chicago Italian Beef and Pizza Immigrants Shaped the Dish**
The **roots of Italian beef** can be traced back to **early 20th-century Italian immigrants** who settled in Chicago. Many worked in the city’s **booming meatpacking industry**, where they had access to **tough, inexpensive cuts of beef**.
To make the most of these **less tender cuts**, they developed a **slow-roasting technique**, cooking the beef **low and slow** in a flavorful broth until it became **juicy and fall-apart tender**. The meat was then **thinly sliced and served on hearty Italian rolls**, often dipped in **savory au jus** for extra moisture and flavor.
### **Evolution from Street Food to a Chicago Staple**
In the 1930s, **Pasquale Scala**, a local butcher, and **Al Ferreri**, the founder of Chicago’s famous **Al’s #1 Italian Beef**, played a key role in **popularizing Italian beef sandwiches**. They began serving these **juicy, flavor-packed sandwiches** at weddings, banquets, and street-side food stalls.
Word spread fast, and soon, **Chicagoans couldn’t get enough**. By the mid-20th century, Italian beef **became a beloved part of Chicago’s culinary landscape**, with local sandwich shops perfecting their **own versions of the dish**.
### **Key Differences Between Chicago Italian Beef and Pizza and Other Beef Sandwiches**
While many cities have **beef-based sandwiches**, *Chicago Italian beef* stands out for **a few key reasons**:
🥩 **Thinly Sliced, Slow-Cooked Beef** – Unlike Philly cheesesteaks, which use **griddled steak**, Italian beef is **slow-roasted and marinated in flavorful au jus**.
🥖 **Dipped for Extra Flavor** – Some prefer their sandwich **lightly dipped**, while others go for the full **“baptized” soak**, making the bread extra soft and juicy.
🌶 **Topped with Giardiniera or Sweet Peppers** – The classic **Chicago topping debate**: spicy giardiniera for heat or roasted sweet peppers for a milder taste.
This unique combination of **tender beef, flavorful broth, and bold toppings** is what makes *Chicago Italian beef* **so iconic**.
—
## **How to Make Authentic Chicago Italian Beef at Home**
You don’t have to visit **Chicago’s famous beef stands** to enjoy a mouthwatering Italian beef sandwich. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can **recreate this legendary dish at home**!
### **Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Italian Beef**
To make **authentic Chicago-style Italian beef**, you’ll need:
**For the beef:**
– 3 lbs **top sirloin roast** (or **chuck roast** for extra tenderness)
– 4 cups **beef broth** (preferably low sodium)
– 1 tbsp **Worcestershire sauce**
– 2 tsp **garlic powder**
– 1 tsp **onion powder**
– 1 tsp **dried oregano**
– 1 tsp **dried basil**
– ½ tsp **black pepper**
– ½ tsp **red pepper flakes** (optional for heat)
**For the sandwich:**
– 6 **Italian rolls** (soft inside, crispy outside)
– 1 cup **hot giardiniera** (or sweet roasted peppers)
– ¼ cup **butter**, melted (for toasting the rolls)
### **Step-by-Step Cooking Process: Slow Cooking for Maximum Flavor**
1️⃣ **Season & Sear:** Rub the beef with **garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and black pepper**. Sear it in a **hot skillet** for 2-3 minutes per side to lock in flavor.
2️⃣ **Slow Cook the Beef:** Place the **seared beef in a slow cooker**, pour in the **beef broth and Worcestershire sauce**, and let it **cook on low for 8-10 hours** until fork-tender.
3️⃣ **Slice the Beef Paper-Thin:** Once cooked, remove the beef and **let it rest** for 10 minutes. Use a **sharp knife** or meat slicer to cut **ultra-thin slices**.
4️⃣ **Prepare the Au Jus:** Strain the cooking liquid and keep it warm. This **flavorful broth** will be used to **dip the sandwiches**.
### **How to Assemble an Authentic Italian Beef Sandwich**
🥖 **Toast the Rolls:** Lightly **brush the Italian rolls with melted butter** and toast them in a pan or oven until slightly crispy.
🥩 **Pile on the Beef:** Load the **thinly sliced beef** onto the roll, making sure to **stack it generously**.
🫙 **Top It Off:** Add **hot giardiniera for a spicy kick** or **sweet peppers for a milder taste**.
🛑 **To Dip or Not to Dip?** The **Chicago way** is to **dip the entire sandwich in au jus**—but you can also serve the broth on the side for dipping as you eat.
And just like that, you’ve **made an authentic Italian beef sandwich** that could rival **any shop in Chicago!**
—
No highly relevant internal linking opportunities were found on Hightasty.com for this article. However, if you’re looking for more delicious Chicago-style recipes, consider checking out their recipe section for inspiration.
The “Chicago Way” of Eating Italian Beef
If you’re eating Chicago Italian beef and pizza, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it—especially when it comes to Italian beef sandwiches. Chicagoans have strong opinions about how these legendary sandwiches should be enjoyed, and not following the rules might raise a few eyebrows!
Dipped, Dry, or Wet: Choosing Your Style
One of the most heated debates in Chicago’s food culture is how wet your Italian beef should be.
- Dry – The beef is pulled straight from the pot and placed in the roll, with minimal extra juice.
- Wet – The sandwich is lightly dunked in au jus, soaking the bread just enough to add flavor.
- Dipped (Baptized) – The entire sandwich is submerged in the flavorful broth, leaving the bread dripping with rich, meaty goodness.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re eating a fully dipped sandwich, use two hands and lean forward—things are going to get messy, fast!
Sweet or Hot Peppers: The Great Debate
Another major decision when ordering Italian beef is choosing your toppings.
🌶 Hot Peppers (Giardiniera) – A spicy, crunchy mix of pickled peppers, carrots, and celery. If you like heat, this is the way to go!
🫑 Sweet Peppers – Roasted green bell peppers that add a milder, smoky flavor.
Some people swear by one or the other, while true Chicagoans will tell you to go for both for the best of both worlds!
Famous Chicago Restaurants Serving the Best Italian Beef
Looking for authentic Chicago Italian beef? Here are some must-visit spots:
🏆 Al’s #1 Italian Beef – The original Italian beef stand, serving sandwiches since the 1930s.
🏆 Portillo’s – A Chicago institution, known for juicy beef, crispy fries, and chocolate cake shakes.
🏆 Johnnie’s Beef – A local favorite, famous for perfectly seasoned beef and hot giardiniera.
🏆 Mr. Beef – One of Chicago’s oldest and most famous beef joints, featured in the hit TV show The Bear.
No matter which spot you choose, you’re in for one of the best sandwiches of your life!
Chicago’s Famous Deep-Dish Pizza vs. Thin-Crust Tavern-Style
While Chicago Italian beef and pizza are both staples of the city, pizza lovers have a whole different debate to settle: deep-dish or thin-crust?
Chicago is known for two very different styles of pizza, and which one is “the real Chicago pizza” depends on who you ask!
What Makes Chicago-Style Pizza Unique?
Chicago’s pizza culture stands out from the rest of the country because of its bold flavors, buttery crusts, and hearty portions. Whether you’re eating a thick, cheesy deep-dish or a cracker-thin tavern-style pizza, one thing is certain—Chicago doesn’t mess around with pizza.
Deep-Dish vs. Tavern-Style: A Tale of Two Pizzas
🍕 Deep-Dish Pizza – Thick, buttery crust, layers of cheese, sausage, and chunky tomato sauce. Baked in a pan, this pizza is so deep, you need a fork and knife!
🍕 Tavern-Style Thin-Crust – Opposite of deep-dish, this super-thin, crispy pizza is cut into small squares, making it perfect for sharing.
While deep-dish is what Chicago is known for, most locals actually prefer tavern-style!
The Best Pizzerias to Try in Chicago
If you want to try the best Chicago-style pizza, here are some legendary spots:
🏆 Lou Malnati’s – Famous for its buttery crust and rich tomato sauce.
🏆 Giordano’s – Known for stuffed deep-dish pizza, an even thicker version of classic deep-dish.
🏆 Pequod’s – Home of caramelized crust deep-dish, a fan favorite.
🏆 Vito & Nick’s – The best place for authentic tavern-style pizza, crispy and cut into squares.
Whether you go for deep-dish or thin-crust, one thing is for sure—Chicago pizza never disappoints!
## **How to Make Chicago-Style Pizza at Home**
If you can’t make it to Chicago, don’t worry—you can still enjoy *Chicago Italian beef and pizza* right from your own kitchen! While deep-dish pizza requires **a bit of patience**, the result is well worth the effort. Whether you’re making **a classic deep-dish pizza** or trying your hand at **crispy tavern-style thin-crust**, this guide will walk you through the process.
### **Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Dough and Sauce**
The secret to **authentic Chicago-style pizza** starts with the **right dough and sauce**. Here’s what you’ll need:
**For Deep-Dish Dough:**
– 3 ½ cups **all-purpose flour**
– ½ cup **cornmeal** (adds signature crunch)
– 1 ¼ cups **warm water**
– 1 packet **instant yeast**
– 1 tsp **salt**
– ¼ cup **olive oil**
**For Tavern-Style Thin-Crust Dough:**
– 3 cups **all-purpose flour**
– 1 tsp **salt**
– 1 tsp **sugar**
– ½ cup **warm water**
– 2 tbsp **vegetable oil**
#### **For the Sauce:**
– 1 can (28 oz) **crushed tomatoes**
– 1 tsp **dried oregano**
– 1 tsp **dried basil**
– 1 tsp **sugar**
– ½ tsp **salt**
– ½ tsp **garlic powder**
This sauce works for **both deep-dish and thin-crust pizzas**—just adjust the thickness by simmering longer for a thicker consistency.
### **Step-by-Step Guide to Making Deep-Dish Pizza**
1️⃣ **Make the Dough** – Mix the flour, cornmeal, salt, and yeast. Add warm water and olive oil, then knead until smooth. Let it rise for **1-2 hours** until doubled in size.
2️⃣ **Prepare the Pan** – Coat a **deep-dish pizza pan** (or cast-iron skillet) with butter or oil. Press the dough into the pan, **stretching it up the sides**.
3️⃣ **Layer the Cheese First** – Unlike regular pizza, **deep-dish pizza starts with cheese**. Spread **slices of mozzarella** evenly over the dough.
4️⃣ **Add Toppings** – Spread cooked **Italian sausage or pepperoni** over the cheese.
5️⃣ **Top with Sauce** – Pour the tomato sauce **over everything**—the sauce goes on top instead of underneath the cheese!
6️⃣ **Bake at 425°F for 35-40 minutes** until the crust is golden and crispy.
7️⃣ **Let It Rest** – Allow the pizza to cool for **5-10 minutes** before slicing.
### **How to Master the Crispy Tavern-Style Thin Crust**
1️⃣ **Make the Dough** – Combine all ingredients and mix until it forms a firm dough. **No rising needed**—this dough is **thin and crispy!**
2️⃣ **Roll It Out Thin** – Use a rolling pin to stretch the dough **as thin as possible**.
3️⃣ **Top It Right** – Spread a **thin layer of sauce**, then add cheese and toppings **all the way to the edges**.
4️⃣ **Bake Hot and Fast** – Cook at **500°F for 12-15 minutes** until the edges are crispy.
5️⃣ **Cut Into Squares** – Unlike deep-dish, tavern-style pizza is **always cut into small squares**, making it great for sharing!
Now that you know how to make **both types of Chicago-style pizza**, let’s talk about **what to serve alongside them!**
—
## **Pairing Italian Beef and Pizza with Drinks and Sides**
A great meal isn’t complete without **the right sides and drinks**. Whether you’re enjoying a **juicy Italian beef sandwich** or a **hot, cheesy pizza**, pairing it with the **perfect accompaniments** makes the experience even better.
### **What Drinks Go Best with Italian Beef and Pizza?**
Pairing the right drink with *Chicago Italian beef and pizza* enhances the flavors and **balances the richness** of these hearty dishes.
🍵 Green Tea – A warm, soothing cup of green tea provides a light, refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of a hot Italian beef sandwich
🥤 **Classic Sodas** – There’s something about an **ice-cold Coke or root beer** that just **works perfectly with a hot Italian beef sandwich**.
☕ **Espresso or Coffee** – Believe it or not, many **Italian delis in Chicago** serve espresso with Italian beef—it helps **cut through the richness!**
### **Perfect Side Dishes to Complement the Meal**
Every great meal needs **delicious sides**. Here are some must-try options to serve with *Chicago Italian beef and pizza*:
🥗 **Italian Chopped Salad** – A refreshing mix of **romaine, tomatoes, red onion, and parmesan** tossed in a **zesty vinaigrette**.
🍟 **Garlic Parmesan Fries** – Crispy fries coated in **garlic butter and parmesan** pair beautifully with **Italian beef sandwiches**.
🧄 **Cheesy Garlic Bread** – Perfect for **soaking up extra pizza sauce** or **au jus from your Italian beef**.
🥒 **Pickle Spears** – A Chicago tradition—many beef joints **serve a crunchy dill pickle on the side**.
🥩 **Sautéed Peppers and Onions** – A great addition to **both Italian beef sandwiches and deep-dish pizza**.
### **Desserts That Pair Well with Chicago’s Best Eats**
After a **heavy, cheesy meal**, something **sweet** is the perfect way to **end on a high note**.
🍰 **Chicago-Style Cheesecake** – Thick and creamy with a **buttery graham cracker crust**.
🍩 **Zeppole or Cannoli** – Classic **Italian pastries** with **crispy shells and sweet, creamy filling**.
—
Where to Find the Best Chicago Italian Beef and Pizza
Chicago is home to some of the best food joints in the world, and when it comes to Chicago Italian beef and pizza, there are plenty of iconic spots to visit. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy Italian beef sandwich or a deep-dish masterpiece, these places should be at the top of your list!
Top Pizzerias That Serve Authentic Chicago-Style Pizza
Looking for the best deep-dish or thin-crust pizza in Chicago? These are the top pizzerias that never disappoint
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites Off the Beaten Path
Looking for something less touristy? Here are a few under-the-radar spots that locals love:
🍽 Bari Italian Subs – A small, family-owned shop with one of the best Italian beef sandwiches in the city.
🍽 Art of Pizza – A hole-in-the-wall joint that serves both deep-dish and stuffed pizza that rivals the big names.
🍽 Pat’s Pizza – If you’re looking for amazing tavern-style thin-crust, Pat’s has been doing it right since 1950.
Whether you’re in search of authentic Italian beef or a perfect slice of Chicago pizza, these restaurants will give you a true taste of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re new to Chicago Italian beef and pizza, you probably have a few questions. Here are some common FAQs and their answers!
Why is Italian beef so popular in Chicago?
Italian beef is deeply rooted in Chicago’s history. It was created by Italian immigrants in the early 1900s as a way to make tough cuts of beef tender and flavorful. Over time, it became a citywide favorite, thanks to its juicy, savory taste and customizable toppings.
What famous sandwich is from Chicago?
The Italian beef sandwich is one of Chicago’s most famous sandwiches, right up there with the Chicago-style hot dog. The combination of thinly sliced beef, rich au jus, and spicy giardiniera makes it a must-try.
What brand of Italian beef does Portillo’s use?
Portillo’s sources its beef from trusted local suppliers, and while they haven’t disclosed their exact brand, they slow-roast their meat using a classic Italian beef recipe to ensure authentic Chicago flavor.
What is the “Chicago way” of eating Italian beef?
The “Chicago way” means ordering your sandwich dipped in savory au jus, loaded with hot giardiniera or sweet peppers, and eating it over a plate (or leaning forward) to avoid making a mess.
If you want the true Chicago experience, go for a “baptized” beef sandwich—fully dipped and extra juicy!
That wraps up our ultimate guide to Chicago Italian beef and pizza! Would you like a quick summary or any final refinements? 😊