This pulled beef sandwich is a big, yummy treat! Tender, slow-cooked beef piled high on a soft bun, topped with your favorite sauce. It’s filling and oh-so-satisfying!
You might find yourself wanting to make extra because they disappear fast. I love adding pickles or coleslaw for that extra crunch. Perfect for game day or a cozy dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This is the star of the show! It’s tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try a beef brisket, though it may need a little extra cooking time to become tender.
Beef Broth: It adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth works just fine. For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth, but this might change the taste a bit.
Onion and Garlic: These give a wonderful base flavor! You can use yellow onions for sweetness, or red onions for a bit more bite. If you’re not a fan of garlic, leave it out or replace it with garlic powder.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce for the best flavor! For a healthier option, make a homemade version or use a sugar-free sauce. Sometimes I mix two kinds for extra depth.
Buns: Brioche buns are delightful, but if you want something lighter, whole wheat or ciabatta rolls work too. Gluten-free buns are available if needed, just make sure they suit your taste!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Beef?
To make the beef flavorful, start with seasoning. Coat it with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if desired). The spices infuse the meat with flavor during the slow cooking process.
- First, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil and searing the meat. This caramelizes the surface and creates great taste!
- Keep an eye on the time when cooking in the slow cooker. Low and slow is key for tender meat, so resist the urge to rush this step.
- When shredding, use two forks to pull the meat apart easily. Mixing it back with the barbecue sauce lets all these great flavors blend together.
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Beef:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
For Assembling the Sandwich:
- 4 large brioche or burger buns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles (for serving, optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of active prep time, with a slow-cooking time of about 8 hours. Once the beef is cooked and shredded, it will need an additional 30 minutes with the barbecue sauce. Total time is around 8 hours and 50 minutes, making it perfect for a leisurely day at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat). Rub this spice mix all over the beef to ensure it’s evenly coated and flavorful.
2. Sear the Meat:
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned beef roast and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step really boosts the flavor of your pulled beef!
3. Slow Cook:
Now it’s time to transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and pour in the beef broth. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low heat for about 8 hours, or until the beef is so tender it falls apart with a fork.
4. Shred the Beef:
When the cooking time is up, carefully take the beef out of the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir in the barbecue sauce. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on low so the flavors mix beautifully!
5. Toast the Buns:
While the beef is soaking up that delicious barbecue sauce, toast the brioche or burger buns. You can do this in a skillet or an oven until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
6. Assemble the Sandwich:
Now it’s time to make your sandwiches! Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and pile on a generous amount of the pulled beef mixture. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat of the beef. Once you’re ready, place the top half of the bun over the cheesy beef.
7. Serve:
For extra flavor, feel free to add pickles on the side, and garnish your sandwiches with fresh cilantro or parsley if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your scrumptious pulled beef sandwiches!
Can I Substitute the Beef Chuck Roast?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or shoulder, but be mindful that cooking times may vary. Brisket may take a bit longer, while shoulder can be a bit quicker depending on the size. Just ensure the meat has enough fat for tenderness and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Beef?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the shredded beef for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more cayenne pepper or even some hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for an extra kick. Alternatively, include diced jalapeños or a spicy barbecue sauce if you prefer a different type of heat.
What Can I Use Instead of Brioche Buns?
If brioche buns aren’t available, feel free to use any soft burger buns, whole wheat buns, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option! Just make sure whatever you choose is sturdy enough to hold the juicy pulled beef.
