Imagine coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of BBQ beef that’s been gently cooking to perfection, its flavors melding and deepening over hours. With a slow cooker and some key insights, this dream can easily become your dinner reality. This article will serve as your go-to guide for mastering the art of slow cooker BBQ beef, ensuring a tender, flavorful dish that promises to be a hit whether it’s a cozy family dinner or the centerpiece of your next gathering. Why does slow cooker BBQ beef occupy a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of so many? Perhaps, it’s the effortless preparation, or the way it transforms a simple piece of meat into a tender, lip-smacking delight. In this guide, we’ll unravel the secrets to achieving the perfect slow cooker BBQ beef that will have your guests asking for seconds...Let's Get Cooking!
Like most slow cooker recipes, this one keeps things super simple so other than slicing an onion and seasoning your chuck roast with some salt, pepper, and garlic, we can dive right into the cooking process. After seasoning your chuck roast, sear it on all sides in a hot pan with some oil. This will create a nice, flavorful crust that helps hold in all the juices and flavors so the end product is tender and delicious!
Line the bottom of your slow cooker with half the onion slices. This will prevent the roast from burning and add additional flavor to the final shredded beef.
Next, we are going to mix some beef stock with your favorite barbecue sauce to create a thick. but flavorful cooking liquid. Pour half of this on the onion slices then place your seared chuck roast on top. Finish things off by pouring the remaining barbecue stock liquids over the roast.
Since the cooking liquid likely doesn't quite cover the meat, place the remaining onions slices on top of the roast to keep things moist during the cooking process.
Set your slow cooker to Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6. Let the beef cook until it falls apart at the slightest touch.
Once your beef is fully cooked, use tongs to transfer the meat only to a separate bowl where you can shred it with forks or meat claws. Don't worry if a few onions catch a ride along the way, as I doubt anyone will even notice. Reserve the cooking liquids, though, as we will be using them for additional moisture and flavor in the next step.
Once you have shredded the beef, add some of those cooking liquids to the bowl along with a bit more of your favorite barbecue sauce. Mix everything together until it is well incorporated and the beef is thoroughly coated with all that delicious barbecue flavor. You can also choose to use an immersion blender and puree the onions in the cooking liquids. Add some cornstarch and stir until it thickens up to make your sauce instead, but I chose to keep it super simple and just use a bit of the liquids with some fresh sauce myself. You do you and fancy it up however you wish! The meat should further shred into almost individual strands rather than chunks once you add the additional liquids and sauce, though, as seen below.
How you serve your BBQ beef can transform it from merely delicious to unforgettable. Consider these ideas:
On a Bun
Classic comfort: Serve shredded BBQ beef on a soft bun with coleslaw for a traditional treat.
As a Bowl
Modern twist: Layer shredded beef over rice or quinoa, adding beans, corn, and avocado for a hearty bowl.
With Sides
Perfect pairings: Classic sides like baked beans, cornbread, and macaroni and cheese complement BBQ beef beautifully.
Slow cooker BBQ beef is not just a dish; it’s a journey of flavors, textures, and aromas that come together to create something truly special. By selecting the right cut, mastering marinades and rubs, and cooking with patience and care, you'll elevate this comfort food to new heights. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining friends, Slow Cooker BBQ Beef promises to be a meal that fosters connection, conversation, and contentment. So, why not start your slow cooker and let the magic begin? Remember, the best BBQ beef is the one that brings people together, filled with love and laughter around the table. Here’s to many memorable meals ahead...Just Keep Cooking!
SLOW COOKER BARBECUE BEEF
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