This Pulled Beef Sandwich is a tasty treat! With tender, slow-cooked beef that’s perfectly seasoned, it’s piled high on a soft bun. Add some tangy sauce, and you’re in for a flavor explosion!
I love to enjoy these sandwiches with a side of crunchy pickles. They really balance the rich flavor of the beef. And let’s be real—who doesn’t like food that you can eat with your hands? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking thanks to its marbling, which makes it tender. If you need a substitute, brisket or short ribs can work well, though they may alter the flavor slightly.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients enhance the overall taste. You can use sautéed shallots in place of onion for a milder flavor, or garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite for this recipe. If you want a healthier option or are avoiding sugar, you can make your own sauce or use a vinegar-based sauce instead.
Spices: Smoked paprika and cumin add depth to your beef. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work, but you can also try a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.
Buns: Brioche and pretzel buns are great choices! If you’re looking for something lighter, try using whole grain or gluten-free buns.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Shredded Beef?
Shredding beef can be tricky, but it’s all about the right cooking time and technique. When the beef is fully cooked and tender, it should fall apart easily. Here’s how to do it:
- After slow cooking, let the beef rest for a few minutes before shredding—this helps retain moisture.
- Use two forks to pull the meat apart. Aim to shred along the grain for the best texture.
- Once shredded, stir the beef back into the cooking liquid for extra flavor!
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Beef:
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 6 burger buns (preferably brioche or pretzel)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional garnishes: pickles, coleslaw, or additional barbecue sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious pulled beef sandwich recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 8 hours of cooking if using a slow cooker on low. Alternatively, you can cook it for 4-5 hours on high. So, set it up in the morning and enjoy a lovely dinner without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin. This will help build a delicious flavor base.
2. Sear the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a little oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the roast on all sides until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds extra flavor. Once done, remove it from the heat.
3. Slow Cook the Beef:
Now, place the seared roast in a slow cooker. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a little stir, cover, and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You want the meat to be super tender and easy to shred.
4. 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. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it back into the delicious sauce. Let it warm up for another 30 minutes for the flavors to blend.
5. Assemble the Sandwich:
If you like toasted buns, this is the time! Toast the burger buns if you want a little crunch. Then, spoon a generous portion of pulled beef onto the bottom half of each bun. Top it off with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese to add that cheesy goodness!
6. Melt the Cheese:
For a melty cheese experience, place the assembled sandwiches under a broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. Yum!
7. Serve:
Now it’s time to serve! Add any optional garnishes like pickles or coleslaw on top, place the other half of the bun over it, and enjoy your warm, delicious pulled beef sandwiches! Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can substitute it with brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary a bit depending on the cut’s size and fat content—brisket may take a bit longer to become tender.
Can I Make This Sandwich in an Instant Pot?
Yes! If you prefer using an Instant Pot, sear the beef first using the sauté function. Then, add all the other ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release when done. Follow the same shredding and serving steps afterward!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover pulled beef can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just cool it completely before freezing, and when you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you’re out of barbecue sauce, try using teriyaki sauce, a homemade mixture of ketchup and vinegar with some spices, or even a spicy chili sauce for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness or spiciness according to your taste!
