Tender slow cooker barbecue beef served on a plate with a side of coleslaw.

The Comforting Flavors of Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef

If you’re looking for a simple and satisfying meal that warms the heart (and the belly!), you’ve come to the right place.

This Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef recipe is not only effortless, but it also fills your kitchen with the tantalizing aroma of tender, savory meat.

Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Just set it and forget it, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious feast ready to serve!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (low) / 4 hours (high)
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes (low) / 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 450
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 800 mg

Why I Love This Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef

This Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef is one of my go-to recipes because it checks all the boxes: it’s hearty, flavorful, and unbelievably easy to prepare. I love how the beef becomes so tender that it practically melts in your mouth.

It’s also super versatile—whether it’s a laid-back family dinner, a game day gathering, or a potluck with friends, it’s sure to impress.

And can we talk about how nice it is to come home to an already-cooked meal? It makes weeknight dinners feel special without the stress!

Ingredients

3 lbs beef chuck roast
1 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Buns, for serving

How to Make Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef

Step 1: Season the Beef

Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. This is where the flavor begins, so don’t be shy!

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Place the seasoned beef in the slow cooker. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top, creating a delicious bed for the meat.

Step 3: Add the Sauces

Pour the barbecue sauce and beef broth over the beef. This is where the magic happens! The sauce will soak into the meat as it cooks, enhancing every bite.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The longer, the better! You want the beef to be tender and easy to shred.

Step 5: Shred the Beef

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. The smell will be irresistible!

Step 6: Combine with Sauces

Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it well with the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on low to soak up even more flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the barbecue beef on buns. Drizzle with additional barbecue sauce if desired, and get ready for the rave reviews!

A piece of meat cooking in a slow cooker, surrounded by vegetables and broth.

A piece of meat cooking in a slow cooker, surrounded by vegetables and broth.s

A hearty slow cooker beef stew with tender meat, vegetables, and rich broth, served in a rustic bowl.

Tips & Variations

Use Different Cuts: If you prefer, you can substitute the chuck roast with brisket or round roast for a different flavor profile.
Serving Ideas: Serve this barbecue beef with coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. Add pickles for extra tang!
Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, ensure your barbecue sauce and broth are gluten-free. Want to spice things up? Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the mix!
Make it Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Delicious Variations

Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Swap the beef for shredded chicken, add buffalo sauce, and serve with blue cheese dressing.
Pulled Pork: Use pork shoulder instead of beef to make a savory pulled pork sandwich.
Vegetarian BBQ Sandwiches: Use jackfruit and cook it in the same barbecue sauce for a plant-based twist.
Beef Tacos: Shred the beef and serve it in tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado and salsa.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef

This barbecue beef is best served warm, heaped onto soft buns. Pair it with crispy potato chips or a refreshing salad for a complete meal. For drinks, an ice-cold soda or a light beer works wonderfully.

If you’re looking for something a bit fancier, try serving it alongside a creamy coleslaw to balance out the rich flavors of the beef.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you have a larger batch, you can freeze it for up to 3 months!

Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best taste.

Helpful Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute with chicken, pork, or even plant-based options like jackfruit.
Do I have to brown the beef first?
No, you can simply place the beef in the slow cooker without browning. It will still be delicious!
Can I use homemade barbecue sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade barbecue sauce can elevate this dish even more.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add hot sauce or crushed red pepper if you like some heat!
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef should be fork-tender and shreddable. If it’s not, give it some more cooking time!

By following this simple recipe, you’ll soon have a comforting dish that brings smiles around the dinner table. Enjoy making this Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef, and happy cooking!