Description
Unlock the secret to incredibly tender and flavorful pulled beef with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, and hearty bowls, it’s a versatile weeknight hero.
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb chuck roast or brisket
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing, optional)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups beef broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1-2 bay leaves
Instructions
- 1. Prep the Beef & Aromatics: Pat beef dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Chop onions, carrots, and celery. Mince garlic.
- 2. Sear Beef (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear beef on all sides until browned (3-4 mins per side). Remove beef. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in the same pan for 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- 3. Combine in Slow Cooker: Place seared or raw seasoned beef in the slow cooker. Add sautéed (or raw) vegetables.
- 4. Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional bay leaves. Pour over beef.
- 5. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until beef is fall-apart tender.
- 6. Shred: Remove beef from slow cooker and shred with two forks, discarding any large fat pieces. Return shredded beef to the slow cooker with the sauce and stir to combine. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours