Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa Recipe: A Flavorful and Family-Friendly Meal for Any Occasion
If you’re looking for a delicious, easy, and crowd-pleasing meal, this Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa recipe is a must-try! Perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls, this tender shredded beef is packed with smoky, spicy flavors that will elevate your dinner table. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making this a go-to for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re feeding yourself, your family, or hosting friends for game day, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast (or brisket)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving
Preparation:
- Season the Beef: Start by rubbing your beef with a pinch of salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. Make sure to coat it evenly to lock in those bold flavors.
- Layer the Slow Cooker: Add the chopped onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce to the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seasoned beef on top, then pour in the lime juice, orange juice, and beef broth. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover your slow cooker and cook the beef on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. When it’s done, the beef should shred easily with a fork.
- Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker to soak up all the flavorful juices. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Time Involved:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 7-8 hours (slow cooker method) or 4-5 hours (quick method)
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your beef barbacoa on soft tortillas for tacos or warm flour tortillas for burritos. You can also layer it over rice for a satisfying bowl meal. Add fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite salsa to take the flavor up a notch.
Side Dish Ideas:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy, flavorful rice with a hint of tomato.
- Black Beans: Seasoned with cumin and lime, a perfect complement.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, peppers, and onions grilled with a bit of olive oil and salt.
- Guacamole and Chips: The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the smoky beef.
Tips for Beginners:
- Don’t Skip the Spice Blend: The chipotle peppers and adobo sauce are essential for giving this dish that rich, smoky flavor, so don’t skip them!
- Make Ahead: The beef barbacoa can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully—just make sure to freeze it in airtight containers.
- Adjust Heat Level: If you prefer a milder version, use just one chipotle pepper or omit it entirely and add a little more lime juice for brightness.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Barbacoa Recipe
Cooking with a slow cooker makes meal planning and preparation a breeze. This beef barbacoa allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with family and friends. The versatility of the dish means you can create different meals throughout the week, keeping things fresh and exciting for everyone at the table.
Feeling inspired? You’ll find even more mouthwatering slow cooker recipes in “35 Slow Cooker Beef Recipes” by Jean Pardue. It’s perfect for busy home cooks who want to create delicious and easy meals for any occasion.
Get a copy at Amazon here and start cooking your next family favorite today!
More Than a Meal!
This Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to create memorable moments around the dinner table. With minimal prep and big flavors, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your meal planning. Enjoy the convenience of the slow cooker and savor the delicious results with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
