This pulled beef sandwich is all about tender, juicy beef that’s been cooked low and slow. It’s packed with flavor and topped with your favorite sauces and crunchy slaw!
You can’t go wrong here, especially on a lazy weekend. Sometimes, I load mine with extra BBQ sauce—because who doesn’t love a messy sandwich, right? 😂
What I love most is how easy it is to prepare ahead of time. Just shred the beef, pile it high on a bun, and enjoy! Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut of meat is perfect for slow cooking, becoming tender and flavorful. If you can’t find chuck roast, try brisket or round roast. Both will work, but chuck offers the best flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can swap regular BBQ with a sugar-free version or try a homemade sauce using tomatoes, vinegar, and spices.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you can use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different twist. If you want a non-dairy option, shredded vegan cheese works well too.
Buns: Brioche buns add a nice sweetness to the sandwich. For a lighter option, you could substitute with whole wheat buns or even lettuce wraps if you’re cutting carbs.
How Do I Ensure My Beef Turns Out Tender and Easy to Shred?
Getting tender pulled beef is all about cooking it low and slow. This allows the collagen in the meat to break down, which makes it super easy to shred. Here are some tips:
- Always sear the meat before slow cooking; this locks in flavor and moisture.
- Cook on low for 8 hours for the best texture. If you’re short on time, 4 hours on high can work, but low is best.
- After the cooking time, let the beef rest for a bit before shredding. This helps retain more juices, making the meat even tastier.
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles (optional, for serving)
- Additional barbecue sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pulled beef sandwich recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high in a slow cooker. Perfect for a hands-off meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it heats, sprinkle salt and pepper over the beef chuck roast. Sear the roast in the hot skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s nice and brown. This step adds great flavor! Once browned, transfer the roast to your slow cooker.
2. Cook Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook them until they become soft, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Scoop the onion and garlic mixture into the slow cooker with the beef.
3. Add Liquids and Seasoning:
Pour the beef broth and barbecue sauce over the beef in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the smoked paprika all over, and if you like a bit of heat, add the cayenne pepper too. Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic—cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is super tender and shreds easily.
4. Shred the Beef:
When the cooking time is up, carefully take out the beef from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Once shredded, return it back into the slow cooker and stir it into the flavorful juices.
5. Prepare the Sandwiches:
If you like, toast the hamburger buns to give them a little extra crunch. Spoon generous amounts of the pulled beef mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Then, sprinkle on the shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt slightly over the warm beef—yum!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, you can add pickles and a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce on top of the beef if you like. Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich, and you’re ready to serve! Enjoy your delicious pulled beef sandwiches right away!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute the chuck roast with a brisket or round roast. Make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since different cuts might require slightly different cooking durations for the best tenderness.
What Can I Use Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
If you’re out of barbecue sauce or want a different flavor, try using a mix of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. You can also use a homemade barbecue sauce recipe if you have one on hand!
How Should I Store Leftover Pulled Beef?
Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the pulled beef a day in advance. Just reheat it gently in the slow cooker or on the stove with a bit of broth to keep it moist before serving. Prepare the sandwiches just before serving to keep the buns from getting soggy!
