This pulled beef sandwich is a hot and tasty treat! With tender beef that’s slow-cooked and mixed with zesty barbecue sauce, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Honestly, the best part is the meat just falls apart! I like to pile on extra toppings like pickles and slaw for a crunch. Your taste buds will love you for it! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking; it becomes tender and flavorful. If you can’t find it, a brisket or round roast works well too, though you may need to adjust cooking time.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce for flavor. Whether it’s sweet, tangy, or spicy, it adds character. You can also make your own by mixing ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika with a bit of liquid smoke can work in a pinch, giving you a similar taste.
Hamburger Buns: Brioche buns are soft and buttery, making them ideal. You can swap them for whole wheat or gluten-free buns too if you prefer healthier options or have dietary needs.
How Do I Get the Beef Tender and Shreddable?
Cooking the beef correctly is key for a perfect pulled beef sandwich. The goal is to make it tender enough to shred easily. Here are the steps:
- Season the beef generously before searing it; this helps build flavor.
- Searing the beef in a hot skillet not only adds flavor but also locks in juices. Don’t rush this step!
- After searing, low-and-slow cooking in a slow cooker is the best method. This allows the connective tissues to break down, turning the beef fork-tender.
- Don’t skip the shredding step! It’s fun and helps mix in the sauce for a better flavor.
Trust me, following these tips will lead to tender, delicious pulled beef every time!
How to Make a Pulled Beef Sandwich?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: Pickles and coleslaw for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 20 minutes prepping and cooking the beef, then it will need to cook for 4 to 8 hours. This recipe is perfect for a laid-back day; just let the slow cooker do its magic, and you’ll have delicious sandwiches ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast! Rub it all over with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. This will help infuse lots of flavor into your meat.
2. Sear the Meat:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef and sear it on all sides until it’s nice and browned—this should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Once it’s browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside for now.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and you can smell the garlic. This will make your kitchen smell great!
4. Cook the Beef:
Now it’s time for the slow cooker! Place the seared beef into the slow cooker along with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the beef broth and barbecue sauce. Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The beef is ready once it’s super tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, take it out of the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker, mixing it well with the sauce.
6. Prepare the Sandwich:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a baking sheet, lay out the bottom halves of your buns. Pile on that delicious shredded beef and top it generously with shredded cheddar cheese!
7. Melt the Cheese:
Pop the sandwiches into the oven and bake them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Yum!
8. Assemble and Serve:
Once they’re ready, take the sandwiches out of the oven, place the top halves of the buns on, and serve immediately. If you like, add pickles and coleslaw for that extra crunch and flavor. Enjoy your homemade pulled beef sandwiches!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal because of its fat content and flavor, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just ensure that whatever cut you choose has enough fat to remain juicy during cooking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead of a Slow Cooker?
Yes! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the beef in the oven. After searing, place the beef in a Dutch oven with the broth and barbecue sauce, cover it tightly, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours, or until tender.
What are Good Toppings for Pulled Beef Sandwiches?
Some tasty toppings include crispy fried onions, jalapeños for heat, or tangy coleslaw for crunch. You could also try different sauces, like a spicy ranch or a garlic aioli, to add some extra flavor!
