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How to Make Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Perfectly

Picture this: the smell of tender, slow-cooked beef wafting through your home, wrapping you in warmth like a favorite blanket. It’s no wonder slow cooker shredded beef is trending right now. With everyone on TikTok and Pinterest sharing their cozy meal ideas, people are drawn to this delicious, hands-off approach to cooking.

This dish is a cozy hug in food form, combining juicy beef with a medley of spices and savory broth. It’s as easy as tossing a few simple ingredients into your slow cooker and letting time do the magic. Think of it like your grandma’s comforting pot roast, but way quicker. Full details in the blog!

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SLOW COOKER SHREDDED BEEF centered hero view, clean and uncluttered

Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Irresistibly Easy Recipe


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  • Author: Emily cook
  • Total Time: 8 hours

Description

Enjoy slow cooker shredded beef in Italian Shredded Beef Crockpot and Mexican Shredded Beef Slow Cooker styles. This easy recipe is perfect for Crockpot Shredded Beef BBQ Sandwiches and Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Meal Prep. Tender and flavorful, it’s ideal for keto and low carb meals too.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pound beef roast such as bottom round or chuck
  • 2 tablespoons cumin
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar optional
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 15 ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes
  • 12 ounces beer such as porter or IPA
  • cilantro optional garnish

Instructions

  1. Combine the cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, dried oregano, brown sugar if using, and chili flakes in the slow cooker base. Place the beef roast on top and rub the spices evenly all over.
  2. Spread the sliced onion over the roast and pour in the diced tomatoes and beer.
  3. Set the slow cooker on Low and let it cook for 8 hours.
  4. Use two forks to shred the beef before serving and add cilantro as a garnish if desired.

Notes

  • Recipe can easily be doubled for larger roasts
  • Shredded beef is delicious on its own or can be used throughout the week in fajitas, quesadillas, soups and more
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Method: Slow Cooker

Nutrition

  • Calories: 347kcal
  • Sugar: 2.7g
  • Sodium: 629mg
  • Fat: 11.4g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8.5g
  • Fiber: 0.9g
  • Protein: 48.4g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

Why It’s a Family Favorite

Oh, where do I even begin? This cozy slow cooker shredded beef is the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table. It’s so tender and flavorful, it just melts in your mouth! The rich aroma of perfectly seasoned beef slowly bubbling away is bound to transport you to a world where dinner is the highlight of the day.

Slow cooker shredded beef ingredients laid out, clean and uncluttered

Not to mention, it’s as easy as pie (or should I say, as easy as toss-and-wait). Tossing a few ingredients in your slow cooker in the morning means you can come home to a hearty meal without any fuss. This meal is perfect for a cozy family gathering or just to impress yourself after a hectic workday. Plus, the leftovers can be repurposed into so many delightful dishes throughout the week! It’s like culinary magic!

Key Ingredients & Tools

Let’s talk about what you need to whip up this deliciousness! The ingredients are simple yet pack an incredible punch of flavor. Here’s the breakdown:

  • 3-pound beef roast: I recommend using bottom round or chuck for that tender, shreddable goodness.
  • Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, dried oregano, brown sugar (if you’re feeling adventurous!), and chili flakes add an amazing depth of flavor.
  • 15-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: These bring a lovely sweetness and smokiness.
  • 12 ounces of beer: A porter or IPA really does the trick here it tenderizes the meat wonderfully and adds a nuanced taste.
  • 1 large onion: Sliced and scattered on top, it adds sweetness as it caramelizes during cooking.

And don’t forget your trusty slow cooker the real star of the show! If you have two forks for shredding, that’s all you need to perfect your meal.

Simple Steps to Make It

  1. Mix the spices: In the base of your slow cooker, blend together the cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, oregano, brown sugar, and chili flakes.
  2. Season the beef: Place the beef roast on top of the spice mix and rub it evenly on all sides. Get those hands messy it’ll be worth it!
  3. Add the onions and tomatoes: Scatter the sliced onions over the roast, followed by the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Pour that beer over it all, too!
  4. Slow cook: Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for about 8 hours.
  5. Shred the beef: When it’s time, use two forks to shred the beef right in that delicious sauce. You can garnish with cilantro if you like for a fresh kick.

Easy Customizations

Your kitchen, your rules! This shredded beef is incredibly versatile, and there are a few easy swaps you can make. Here’s some food for thought:

SwapUse This Instead
Type of MeatUse a pork roast or chicken for a different flavor!
AlcoholSubstitute the beer with beef broth for a gluten-free option.
Spice LevelAdjust chili flakes or add fresh jalapeños to turn up the heat!
Cooking TimeCooking on high for 4 hours works too if you’re in a hurry.

Feel free to add bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies. This is your meal, so let your creativity shine!

How to Serve & Store

This dish is so adaptable! You can serve your shredded beef on a cozy bun for a classic BBQ sandwich, pile it into tacos, or even toss it into some yummy enchiladas. It’s always delicious!

Storage TipDuration
RefrigeratorStore in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
FreezerCan be frozen for up to 3 months – just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
ReheatingWarm it up on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave easy peasy!

So, go ahead, make this cozy slow cooker shredded beef, and watch how it becomes a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine. Cooking never felt so easy, or so delicious!

Expert Says

Slow cooker shredded beef not only offers a convenient meal prep option but also benefits from low and slow cooking, breaking down collagen in tougher cuts of meat. This process enhances flavor and tenderness, ensuring a rich and satisfying dish perfect for sandwiches or tacos.

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!

The Journey to Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Perfection

After countless attempts, I finally turned my slow cooker shredded beef into a family favorite. From forgetting to season it to discovering the joys of adding coffee for depth, each misstep was a lesson that led to a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece that warms our hearts and fills our bellies.

FAQs ( Slow Cooker Shredded Beef )

What cut of beef is best for slow cooking?

The best cuts for slow cooking are chuck roast, brisket, or round roast. Chuck roast is particularly ideal because the marbling allows for tenderness during the long cooking process, making your dish flavorful and juicy.

How long to cook shredded beef in a slow cooker?

This recipe typically requires 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Be patient with low cooking, as it tends to result in a more tender and flavorful outcome for your dish.

How do I season the beef for this recipe?

Season the beef generously with salt and pepper, along with your choice of spices, like garlic powder or paprika. You can add a store-bought BBQ sauce or homemade seasoning mixture for extra flavor if desired.

Can I make this meal ahead and freeze it?

Absolutely! Allow the shredded beef to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

This meal pairs excellently with rice, mashed potatoes, or in a sandwich. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw to balance the rich flavors.

Slow cooker shredded beef served, clean and uncluttered_pin

Conclusion

You’ll love how this Crockpot Shredded Beef BBQ Sandwiches turns outso tender and mouthwateringly flavorful! With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen will wrap you in comfort, just like a hug from an old friend. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a bite of this cozy goodness!

For a twist, why not try adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick? Or swap the beef for chicken if that’s more your style! A little tip I picked up from my aunt: leftover beef makes the best nachos or enchiladas for lunch the next day. Don’t forget to store any extras in an airtight container; they’ll last beautifully for up to four days!

I’d love to hear how your meals turn out! Did you grow up enjoying something similar at family gatherings? Snap a photo and share your delicious creations with us. Take a moment to save or share this recipe with someone who loves a good home-cooked meal. Here’s to filling your table with warmth and flavorhappy cooking!

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