Ridiculously Easy Crockpot Barbacoa Beef – Flavor You’ll Crave
This Ridiculously Easy Crockpot Barbacoa Beef is packed with flavor, tender and juicy, perfect for any meal preparation.
Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 9 hours hours
Resting Time: 10 minutes minutes
Total Time: 9 hours hours 25 minutes minutes
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Crockpot Barbacoa Beef, Easy Barbacoa, Flavorful Meals, Slow Cooker Recipes, Taco Night, weeknight dinner
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal
Slow cooker
skillet
Mixing bowl
For the Beef
- 3.5 lb Boneless Chuck Roast This cut brings juiciness and tenderness; feel free to swap for a beef shoulder or bottom round roast if needed.
- 2 tablespoon Vegetable Oil Essential for searing the meat to enhance flavor; any neutral oil can do the trick.
For the Cooking Liquid
- 0.5 cup Low-Sodium Beef Broth Adds moisture and depth; in a pinch, chicken broth works just fine.
For the Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor; use regular salt as a substitute but measure carefully.
- 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Packs a punch of heat and flavor depth; opt for a milder version or smoked chili powder for added depth.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Infuses a savory aroma; you can use 1-2 cloves of freshly minced garlic instead.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Provides consistent flavor; fresh onion works well if sautéed first.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Essential for that earthy, warm note associated with authentic barbacoa.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds mild sweetness and vibrant color; try smoked paprika for an additional smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Delivers a sharp kick; adjust according to your taste preference.
For Finishing Touches
- 1 Lime Brightens the dish right before serving; avoid cooking the juice too long to prevent toughening the meat.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Cilantro Adds a refreshing burst of flavor just before serving, making your barbacoa beef unforgettable!
Cooking Steps
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the boneless chuck roast on both sides until beautifully browned, about 2-3 minutes per side for that rich flavor.
In a mixing bowl, combine kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, paprika, and ground black pepper. Give it a good stir to ensure the spices marry nicely.
Generously rub the seasoning mix all over the seared roast, ensuring every nook is coated. Place it in the slow cooker, then pour low-sodium beef broth around it for moisture.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low; let it cook for 8-9 hours until the meat becomes fork-tender and irresistibly juicy.
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the beef directly in the slow cooker, mixing it well with those flavorful cooking juices.
Just before serving, squeeze the fresh lime juice over the shredded beef and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.
Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for an unforgettable taco night!
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 700mg | Potassium: 800mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 10IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 15mg