Simple Beef Barbacoa for Burritos and Tacos

Savor Simple Beef Barbacoa, a tender, flavorful dish with spicy, smoky beef perfect for burritos and tacos. This crockpot meal delivers bold Mexican flavors with minimal effort, ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Beef Barbacoa for Burritos and Tacos is a mouthwatering, versatile dish that transforms beef into a tender, spicy, and smoky filling, perfect for crafting delicious burritos, tacos, or bowls. This budget-friendly crockpot recipe is a breeze to prepare, letting the slow cooker meld rich, Mexican-inspired flavors with minimal effort and cleanup. Its adaptability suits various dietary needs, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or parties. Packed with protein and bold taste, this barbacoa pairs beautifully with tortillas, rice, or salads, offering a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Sear Beef First: Brown the beef for deeper flavor before adding to the slow cooker.
• Blend Sauce Smoothly: Puree the chipotle and broth mixture for a consistent, flavorful sauce.
• Use Low Heat: Cook on low for tender, shreddable beef and well-melded flavors.
• Adjust Spice Level: Reduce or increase chipotle peppers to control heat to your taste.
• Shred Easily: Use two forks to shred beef while warm for best texture.
• Use a Liner: Place a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Yield: 8 Servings

Simple Beef Barbacoa for Burritos and Tacos

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Simple Beef Barbacoa, a tender, spicy crockpot dish perfect for flavorful burritos and tacos.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 3 lbs beef chuck roast
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional garnish: extra cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

1. Season Beef: Pat chuck roast dry and season with salt and pepper for a flavorful start.
2. Sear Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high; sear beef for 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
3. Prep Aromatics: Slice onion and mince garlic to build a savory, aromatic base.
4. Blend Sauce: In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, beef broth, lime juice, and cumin; blend until smooth.
5. Layer Crockpot: Place onion slices in a 6-quart slow cooker, creating a flavorful bed.
6. Add Beef: Place seared beef on top of onions in the slow cooker.
7. Pour Sauce: Pour chipotle sauce over beef, add garlic, and stir gently to coat.
8. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until beef is tender.
9. Shred Beef: Remove beef, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker to soak up sauce.
10. Serve with Flair: Spoon barbacoa into tortillas, garnish with cilantro and lime, and enjoy in burritos or tacos!

Notes

• Searing beef enhances flavor but can be skipped; raw beef will cook through in the slow cooker.
• Adjust chipotle peppers to control spice; start with one for milder flavor.
• Leftovers are perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or nachos for quick meals.
• Serve with warm tortillas, avocado, or a side salad for a complete Mexican-inspired dinner.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 420Total Fat 26gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 141mgSodium 366mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 43g

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: Provides rich, tender flavor; brisket or rump roast are alternatives.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: Add smoky heat; adjust quantity for milder or spicier flavor.
• Onion: Yellow onion builds a savory base; red onion offers a sweeter profile.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances aroma; garlic powder is a quick substitute.
• Beef Broth: Low-sodium broth controls saltiness; vegetable broth can substitute.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds tangy brightness; lemon juice is a close alternative.
• Cumin: Ground cumin adds earthy warmth; chili powder can enhance spice.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro offers a bright garnish; parsley can substitute if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use pork shoulder or chicken thighs for a different flavor; adjust cooking time.
• Spice Adjustments: Swap chipotle for ancho chiles or smoked paprika for milder heat.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth and chipotle sauce are gluten-free certified.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt for a lighter dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with jackfruit or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Include bell peppers or carrots for added texture and nutrition.
• Herb Variations: Swap cilantro for oregano or parsley for different flavor profiles.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
• Meal Prep: Portion with tortillas or rice for easy burritos or tacos throughout the week.

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