Beef Barbacoa with Smoky Chipotle and Herbs
This Beef Barbacoa with Smoky Chipotle and Herbs features tender beef infused with smoky chipotle and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a hearty meal, it’s a simple recipe that blends rich, spicy flavors into a nutritious dish with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This beef barbacoa is a nutritious, hearty dinner option that transforms tender beef infused with smoky chipotle and aromatic herbs into a flavorful delight, perfect for a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare with slow cooking, it’s packed with protein and taste. Versatile—serve with tortillas or rice—this recipe offers a delicious and wholesome indulgence.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Sear the Beef: Enhances flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adds better aroma.
- Cook on Low: Ensures fall-apart tenderness.
- Stir Occasionally: Ensures even spice distribution.
- Check Doneness: Meat should shred easily.
- Avoid Overfilling: Leaves room for juices to blend.
- Serve Warm: Maximizes the smoky appeal.
- Thicken Sauce if Desired: Simmer uncovered if too thin.
- Rest Before Serving: Allows flavors to meld.
- Adjust Heat: Taste and tweak chipotle to preference.
Beef Barbacoa with Smoky Chipotle and Herbs

Tender beef barbacoa with smoky chipotle, hearty meal.
Ingredients
- ½ tsp thyme
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3 lbs boneless beef chuck roast
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prep the Beef: Season beef chuck roast with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear beef for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to slow cooker.
- Chop the Peppers: Chop chipotle peppers and mince garlic.
- Combine Ingredients: Place garlic and chipotle peppers around the beef in the slow cooker. Add beef broth, lime juice, cumin, oregano, and thyme.
- Season the Dish: Stir to mix the ingredients evenly around the beef.
- Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours until beef is tender.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the beef shreds easily with a fork.
- Shred the Meat: Remove beef, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker. Stir to coat with sauce.
- Rest the Barbacoa: Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes with the lid off to thicken slightly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve warm, savoring this smoky, herbal delight!
Notes
- Sear beef first for flavor; use fresh herbs for aroma.
- Stir occasionally for even cooking; check seasoning to taste.
- Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness; reheat gently to preserve moisture.
- This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets with appropriate swaps.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 411Total Fat 26gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 141mgSodium 511mgCarbohydrates 2gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 42g
The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Beef Chuck Roast (3 lbs): Boneless, for rich texture.
- Beef Broth (1 cup): Low-sodium, for moisture.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo (2): Chopped, for smokiness.
- Lime Juice (2 tbsp): Fresh, for tang.
- Garlic (4 cloves): Minced, for depth.
- Cumin (1 tsp): Ground, for warmth.
- Oregano (1 tsp): Dried, for earthiness.
- Thyme (½ tsp): Dried, for herbal notes.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
- Cilantro (2 tbsp): Chopped, for garnish.
Variations and Substitutions
- Meat Swap: Use beef brisket or pork shoulder.
- Broth Swap: Replace with chicken broth or water.
- Chili Swap: Use ancho chilies or omit.
- Lime Swap: Use lemon juice or vinegar.
- Garlic Swap: Use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
- Spice Swap: Add chili powder for extra heat.
- Herb Swap: Use rosemary or omit.
- Low-Sodium: Reduce or skip salt based on broth.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat on stovetop.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge.
- Reheating: Warm on low heat with a splash of water.
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