Ay Caramba Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Beef

Best Mexican Shredded Beef Recipe My Slow Cooker Secret
By Rafael Cruz

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever craved that amazing barbacoa from Chipotle? This mexican shredded beef recipe is about to blow it out of the water! It's packed with smoky, spicy, and savory flavors that'll make your taste buds sing.

Brief Overview

This recipe is inspired by authentic barbacoa traditions. It takes a humble cut of beef and transforms it into tender perfection.

It is an easy slow cooker recipe . Perfect for a weeknight meal, feeding a crowd or some shredded beef burrito bowl .

This recipe serves 6-8 hungry folks.

Main Benefits

One of the top benefits? It's packed with protein and tastes amazing. This barbacoa beef recipe is perfect for game day or any fiesta.

What makes this so special? It's ridiculously easy, flavourful, and guaranteed to impress.

Level Up Your Taco Tuesday

Alright, let's talk about this Crockpot Mexican beef . Honestly, sometimes I feel so lazy to cook. You know, some days I can’t even be bothered to boil water.

But this recipe is so simple, that even on those days I can whip it up.

I always grab a cheap cut like chuck roast from the butcher. Because the magic of the slow cooker does all the work.

It transforms a tough cut into melt-in-your mouth authentic barbacoa . Plus, the house smells incredible while it cooks. This is the perfect cut for any chuck roast recipes .

From Bland to Bangin'

The secret is in the spices, right? A good dose of chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Then the chipotle barbacoa copycat is the key for that signature smoky heat, and a touch of lime.

Don't be afraid to experiment!

You can add a little extra spice if you love a spicy shredded beef , like me. I sometimes throw in a diced jalapeno.

Serve this mexican beef tacos and you are guaranteed a second plate.

Alright, let's dive into what you need to make this Mexican shredded beef . We're talking about the real deal. This recipe makes seriously tasty crockpot Mexican beef .

Get ready for an explosion of flavour!

Ingredients & Equipment

Let's break down what you'll need. I'll give you my tips to select awesome ingredients. Plus, some handy equipment info. You'll be crafting slow cooker barbacoa like a pro in no time.

Main Ingredients

Time to grab your shopping list. Here’s what you’ll need to make around 6-8 servings of this incredible dish:

  • Beef chuck roast: 3 lbs (1.36 kg) . Look for a well marbled roast. Marbling means flavor!
  • Onion: 1 large , roughly chopped. Yellow or white works great.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Fresh is always best, right?
  • Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: 2 , roughly chopped, plus 2 tablespoons adobo sauce. These add smoky heat.
  • Chili powder: 1 tablespoon .
  • Ground cumin: 2 teaspoons .
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon .
  • Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon .
  • Ground cloves: 1/4 teaspoon .
  • Ground cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon .
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon .
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon .
  • Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml) .
  • Apple cider vinegar: 1/4 cup (60 ml) .
  • Lime juice: From 2 limes . Freshly squeezed is the bomb !
  • Optional Garnish: Fresh cilantro, diced white onion, lime wedges.

Seasoning Notes

Okay, let’s talk flavour! This is where Chipotle barbacoa copycat comes to life.

The chipotle peppers are key. They bring the heat. The cumin and oregano give that classic Mexican taste. Don't skimp on the smoked paprika! It adds a smoky depth you'll love .

If you're out of apple cider vinegar? Use white vinegar instead. For a milder flavour, you can use just 1 chipotle pepper.

If you want that spicy shredded beef , add a pinch of cayenne pepper too.

Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker: 6-quart (5.7 liter) or larger. A must for easy slow cooker recipes !
  • Large skillet (optional): For searing the beef. Adds flavor!
  • Tongs: For handling the beef.
  • Two forks: For shredding. You can use forks for an Authentic barbacoa !

Honestly, that's all you really need! A Dutch oven can work in a pinch if you don’t have a slow cooker.

The key is patience with this barbacoa beef recipe . You’ll achieve amazing Mexican beef tacos or a shredded beef burrito bowl with minimal effort.

And that makes it so worth it.

Cooking Like a Pro: ¡Ay, Caramba! Mexican Shredded Beef

Honestly, who doesn't love the smell of a slow cooker barbacoa simmering away all day? This recipe for Mexican shredded beef is so easy, it's almost criminal.

We're talking Chipotle barbacoa copycat levels of deliciousness, but with your own personal touch. Forget slaving away over a hot stove; this is all about flavour with minimal effort.

Plus, imagine all the amazing Mexican beef tacos or shredded beef burrito bowls you can whip up. This recipe is an absolute winner if you’re into easy slow cooker recipes .

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission

Before you even think about switching on your slow cooker, let's get organised. This part is important, I promise! First, you'll need to grab your 3 lbs (1.

36 kg) beef chuck roast . Then, chop up 1 large onion and mince those 4 cloves of garlic . Roughly chop the 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce , and get out 2 tablespoons of the adobo sauce too.

The secret to this spicy shredded beef is a good barbacoa beef recipe . And remember, safety first! Make sure your surfaces are clean before handling the beef.

Slow Cooking Your Way to Perfection: step-by-step

  1. If you're feeling fancy, sear that chuck roast in a pan over medium high heat for about 2- 3 minutes per side. This boosts the flavour, but no pressure if you're short on time.
  2. Pop the chopped onion and minced garlic into the bottom of your slow cooker.
  3. Nestle the chuck roast right on top of that oniony, garlicky goodness.
  4. Mix the chipotle peppers with the adobo sauce, spices, 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth , 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar , and the juice of 2 limes . Pour this glorious concoction all over the beef.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours . You want the beef to be fall apart tender.
  6. Shred that beauty with two forks, then return it to the sauce.
  7. Simmer for another 15- 30 minutes to let the authentic barbacoa soak up all that flavour.

Pro Tips to Level Up Your Barbacoa Game

Want to make this crockpot Mexican beef even more incredible? Sear the beef! Seriously, don't skip that searing step if you have the time.

It makes a big difference. Also, don't be scared to adjust the spice level to your liking! Add a pinch of cayenne if you want extra heat or reduce the amount of chipotle.

This barbacoa is amazing, even for chuck roast recipes . You can even make it ahead of time! Just shred the beef and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Recipe Notes for ¡Ay, Caramba! Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Beef

Alright, you're ready to tackle this ¡Ay, Caramba! Mexican shredded beef . Awesome! But before you dive in, let's chat about some handy dandy tips and tricks to make sure it's a total success.

Honestly, this barbacoa beef recipe is pretty forgiving, but a little guidance never hurt anyone, right? I also want to share some stories from when I failed trying to make it so you can avoid the same problems.

Also this recipe is easily a Chipotle barbacoa copycat .

Serving Suggestions: Let's Get Fancy (or Not!)

Okay, presentation time! Don't stress if you're not a Michelin star chef. This spicy shredded beef is amazing in its own right.

For plating, think simple. A dollop of guac, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a squeeze of lime goes a long way.

For Mexican beef tacos , warm tortillas are essential. If you're making a shredded beef burrito bowl , layer it like a boss: rice, beans, corn, the glorious Mexican shredded beef , and then your favourite toppings.

For sides, I love a simple Mexican rice or a fresh corn salad. As for drinks, a cold Mexican beer (like Corona or Modelo) or a refreshing margarita are perfect pairings! I think this recipe could also be a slow cooker barbacoa .

Storage Tips: Make it Last

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This crockpot Mexican beef keeps like a champ. Pop it in an airtight container and it'll be good in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

To freeze, portion it out into freezer bags or containers. It'll last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge.

For reheating, microwave it (covered, so it doesn't dry out) or gently simmer it in a pot on the stove.

If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of beef broth. You can try this recipe with chuck roast recipes .

Variations: Tweak It to Your Taste

Want to mix things up? No problem! For a lower carb version, ditch the tortillas and serve it over cauliflower rice.

For a seasonal twist, add some roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes during the last hour of cooking. This can easily be made an authentic barbacoa .

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff

Let's break it down! This easy slow cooker recipes dish is packed with protein, thanks to the beef. It also offers some iron and other essential nutrients.

The carbs are pretty low. Obviously, calories and fat will depend on the cut of beef you use and what you serve it with.

Enjoy guilt free! If you are short of time this easy slow cooker recipes might be the solution.

Honestly, this recipe is a winner. It’s so flavorful. Plus, it’s a guaranteed way to impress your friends and family. So, give it a go! I just know you will nail it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Mexican shredded beef in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot, sear the beef (if desired), then add all the ingredients to the pot. Cook on high pressure for 60-75 minutes, followed by a 15-minute natural pressure release.

It's a great way to get that tender, flavourful Mexican shredded beef in a fraction of the time perfect for when you're short on time but still craving that taste of Mexico!

What's the best cut of beef to use for Mexican shredded beef?

Chuck roast is the gold standard for this recipe because it has a good amount of marbling, which renders down during the long cooking time and creates incredibly tender and juicy shredded beef. However, you could also use brisket or even a round roast in a pinch.

Just keep in mind that leaner cuts might require a little extra beef broth to stay moist.

How can I make this Mexican shredded beef spicier? I like my food with a kick!

If you're a spice fiend, there are a few ways to crank up the heat! You could add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Alternatively, increase the amount of chipotle peppers or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

You could even introduce a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end for a flavor that really packs a punch!

What are some good serving suggestions for this Mexican shredded beef besides tacos?

Tacos are a classic for a reason, but this Mexican shredded beef is incredibly versatile! Try serving it in burrito bowls over rice with black beans, corn, and your favorite toppings. It's also fantastic piled on nachos with cheese and jalapeños, or even as a filling for quesadillas.

Leftovers can also be used to make some amazing enchiladas!

How should I store leftover Mexican shredded beef, and how long will it last?

Leftover Mexican shredded beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.

When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to keep it moist, you wouldn’t want it drying out!

Ay Caramba Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Beef

Best Mexican Shredded Beef Recipe My Slow Cooker Secret Recipe Card
0.0 / 5 (0 Review)
Preparation time:15 Mins
Cooking time:08 Hrs
Servings:6-8 servings

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Nutrition Facts:

Calories450-550
Fat25-35g
Fiber2-3g

Recipe Info:

CategoryMain Course
CuisineMexican

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