Giordano’s Italian Beef Air Fryer

Giordano’s Italian Beef Air Fryer

Giordano’s Italian Beef comes out hot, juicy, and ready to pile high on a crispy roll using the air fryer. Paired with crunchy bread and giardiniera, this Chicago classic is easy to recreate at home—no oven, skillet, or stovetop needed. The air fryer crisps the bread while the beef stays tender and dripping with flavorful gravy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Chicago Flavor at Home

Slow-cooked beef in rich au jus with a peppery kick—just like at the restaurant.

Crispy Roll + Juicy Beef

The air fryer gives you that essential contrast of crunchy bread and tender, dripping meat.

No Stove or Oven Needed

Heat everything using just the air fryer and microwave for a fast, no-mess meal.

Customizable Sandwich Style

Make it "wet" or "dry," with or without cheese and giardiniera—your way, every time.

Ingredients

• 1 package Giordano’s Italian Beef with Gravy (frozen)

• Hoagie rolls, French rolls, or Italian sandwich buns

Optional Toppings:

• Spicy or mild giardiniera

• Provolone or mozzarella cheese

• Roasted sweet peppers or sautéed onions

• Au jus (from the beef package) for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Italian Beef

• Remove frozen Italian beef and gravy from packaging

• Heat in microwave-safe container or saucepan until hot (internal temp of 165°F)

  • Microwave: 3–4 minutes, stirring halfway

  • Stovetop: Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes

• Keep beef in gravy to prevent drying out

Step 2: Prep the Bread in the Air Fryer

• Slice sandwich rolls but do not separate fully

• Optional: brush lightly with olive oil or garlic butter

• Place rolls in air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 3–4 minutes to toast

  • For melted cheese: place a slice of provolone on the bread in the last 1–2 minutes

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

• Use tongs to pile hot beef onto toasted bread

• Spoon on some of the warm au jus

• Top with giardiniera or roasted peppers if desired

• Serve immediately, “wet” or “dry” based on preference

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Toast Bread Separately

This prevents it from becoming soggy before serving—toast it, then load it up.

Heat Beef in Gravy to Lock in Moisture

Never air fry the beef directly—it will dry out. Always microwave or heat gently in sauce.

Want It Wet?

Dip the whole sandwich back into the au jus before serving, Chicago-style.

Add Cheese in the Air Fryer

To melt perfectly, add provolone or mozzarella in the last 1–2 minutes of toasting the roll.

What to Serve With Giordano’s Italian Beef

Classic Sides

• Crinkle fries or air-fried potato wedges

• Sweet potato fries or tater tots

• Pickles or dill spears

• Coleslaw or a side salad

Dips and Extras

• Extra au jus for dipping

• Horseradish mayo or garlic aioli

• Mild giardiniera for a mellow crunch

• Spicy sport peppers for extra heat

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover beef in gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

How to Reheat

• Beef: Microwave or simmer gently in gravy

• Bread: Air fry at 350°F for 2–3 minutes

• Assembled sandwich: Wrap in foil and air fry at 350°F for 5–6 minutes

Can You Freeze After Cooking?

Yes—freeze extra cooked beef with gravy for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight and reheat gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Giordano’s Italian Beef Fully Cooked?

Yes—it just needs to be reheated to 165°F and served with the included gravy.

Can I Air Fry the Beef?

No—the beef should be heated in its au jus using a microwave or stovetop to keep it juicy.

Can I Make It a Cheese Beef?

Absolutely! Add provolone or mozzarella in the last minute of toasting the bread in the air fryer.

What’s the Best Way to Serve It?

Classic Chicago style: toasted roll, dripping with au jus, and topped with spicy giardiniera.

Giordano’s Italian Beef air fryer method: crispy roll, juicy beef, and bold Chicago-style flavor in under 10 minutes. Easy sandwich prep with melted cheese, peppers, and rich au jus.