Simply Crockpot • Beef
This crockpot beef barbacoa is rich, tender, and packed with bold flavor.
Made with simple ingredients and slow cooked until fall-apart tender, it’s
perfect for tacos, bowls, salads, or easy meal prep throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fork-tender beef every time.
- Bold flavor with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for tacos, bowls, and meal prep.
- Set it and forget it slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
Ingredient notes:
• Chuck roast works best for shredding.
• Vinegar adds balance and depth of flavor.
• Adjust spice level to taste.
Instructions
- Add the chuck roast to the crockpot.
- In a bowl, whisk broth, vinegar, garlic, and spices.
- Pour the mixture over the beef and add the bay leaf.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.
- Remove the beef and shred with two forks.
- Return shredded beef to the crockpot and stir to coat in juices.
Tip: Let the beef rest in the juices for 10 minutes after shredding for maximum flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For tacos: Serve with tortillas, onion, and cilantro.
- For bowls: Pair with rice, beans, and avocado.
- For mild flavor: Reduce chili powder slightly.
- For extra richness: Add a splash of lime juice at the end.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm with cooking juices to prevent drying.
FAQ
Is barbacoa spicy?
It’s flavorful rather than spicy. You can adjust heat easily by changing the chili powder amount.
Can I cook this overnight?
Yes—LOW for 8 hours works perfectly and delivers the best texture.
What’s the best way to serve this?
Tacos, burrito bowls, salads, sandwiches, or meal prep containers all work great.
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