Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa

s Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa is a tender, flavorful dish made by slow-cooking beef in a blend of spices, chipotle peppers, and lime juice. It’s perfect for tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or served on its own with a side of vegetables. The long cooking time results in incredibly juicy, fall-apart meat that’s deeply infused with rich Mexican-inspired flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for busy days, as it requires minimal prep and lets the slow cooker do all the work. The beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful thanks to the blend of spices and the slow cooking process. It’s also highly versatile, making it a great choice for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Whether you’re making tacos for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this dish will not disappoint.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chuck roast or beef brisket

• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

• Garlic cloves

• Apple cider vinegar

• Fresh lime juice

• Ground cumin

• Dried oregano

• Ground cloves

• Beef broth

• Bay leaves

• Salt

• Pepper

• Olive oil (for searing, optional)

directions

1. Cut the beef into large chunks, trimming excess fat if needed.

2. Season the beef with salt and pepper.

3. Optional: In a hot skillet, sear the beef in olive oil until browned on all sides.

4. Add the beef to the slow cooker.

5. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, garlic, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, cumin, oregano, cloves, and beef broth. Blend until smooth.

6. Pour the sauce over the beef in the slow cooker.

7. Add bay leaves.

8. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours, or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.

9. Remove the bay leaves, shred the beef with two forks, and mix it back into the sauce.

10. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 hours on low, or 4–5 hours on high
Total time: About 8 hours 15 minutes (low) or 4 hours 15 minutes (high)

Variations

• Spicier version: Add extra chipotle peppers or a diced jalapeño for more heat.

• Citrus twist: Substitute half the lime juice with orange juice for a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor.

• Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce instead of tortillas.

• No searing: Skip the browning step to save time. The slow cooker will still yield tender results.

• Different protein: Use pork shoulder or chicken thighs as a substitute for beef.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm the beef in a covered pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For microwave reheating, cover loosely and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for barbacoa?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked. Brisket or beef shoulder are also good options.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook it on high pressure for about 60 minutes with a natural release for tender beef.

Is barbacoa very spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat depending on the amount of chipotle used. You can adjust the heat by adding more or fewer peppers.

Can I skip the searing step?

Yes, though searing adds extra flavor, the beef will still be very flavorful without it.

What are the best ways to serve beef barbacoa?

It’s delicious in tacos, burritos, enchiladas, rice bowls, or on top of salads.

Can I use frozen beef?

It’s best to thaw the beef before cooking for even heat distribution and food safety.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes after shredding the beef.

Does this recipe work well for meal prep?

Absolutely. It stores and reheats well, making it great for meal prepping multiple servings.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

What can I use instead of chipotle peppers?

You can substitute chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa is a flavorful, hands-off dish that’s perfect for a variety of meals. With its tender texture and bold spices, it’s a recipe that fits both casual weeknights and special gatherings. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious taste make it a reliable favorite for any occasion

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