Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Sandwiches Recipe
Introduction
Slow Cooker BBQ Beef is a simple and flavorful meal perfect for busy days. With tender, shredded beef coated in smoky BBQ sauce, it makes a delicious sandwich that everyone will love.

Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef roast (chuck roast recommended, up to 3 lbs works without changes)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 cups BBQ sauce (divided)
- Buns (for serving)
- Sliced cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the onion powder, garlic salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Cajun seasoning.
- Step 2: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the beef roast, covering both sides evenly.
- Step 3: Place the seasoned roast into the slow cooker.
- Step 4: Pour 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the meat.
- Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until the roast is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Step 6: Once cooked, shred the beef directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
- Step 7: Add the remaining 1 cup of BBQ sauce to the shredded beef and stir to combine well.
- Step 8: Serve the BBQ beef warm on buns, topped with sliced cheddar cheese if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra smoky flavor, use a hickory or mesquite BBQ sauce.
- Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce for a tangy twist.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Leftover BBQ beef works great on nachos, baked potatoes, or tossed into a salad.
Storage
Store leftover BBQ beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the shredded beef in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, other cuts like brisket or round roast can be used, but cooking times may vary depending on the size and toughness of the meat.
Can I make this recipe in an oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the seasoned roast in a covered baking dish at 300°F (150°C) for about 3–4 hours or until tender, then shred and mix with BBQ sauce.
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Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Sandwiches Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker BBQ Beef recipe features a tender chuck roast seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices and slow-cooked in BBQ sauce until perfectly shreddable. Ideal for a comforting meal, the beef is served hot on buns and can be topped with cheddar cheese for an extra indulgent touch. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 2 pounds beef roast (chuck roast recommended, up to 3 lbs works without changes)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
BBQ Sauce and Serving
- 2 cups BBQ sauce (divided)
- Buns (for serving)
- Sliced cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine onion powder, garlic salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Cajun seasoning until evenly mixed.
- Season the roast: Rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly all over the beef roast, ensuring both sides are well covered for maximum flavor penetration.
- Place meat in slow cooker: Transfer the seasoned roast to the slow cooker, laying it flat to cook evenly.
- Add the first portion of BBQ sauce: Pour 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the top of the roast to infuse moisture and flavor during cooking.
- Slow cook the beef: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the roast becomes tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Shred the beef: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the beef directly inside the slow cooker to retain the juices and flavors.
- Mix in remaining BBQ sauce: Add the remaining 1 cup of BBQ sauce to the shredded beef and stir thoroughly to combine for a saucy consistency.
- Serve: Scoop the warm BBQ beef onto buns and top with sliced cheddar cheese if desired for a classic, hearty sandwich.
Notes
- Chuck roast is preferred due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, but similar cuts can be substituted.
- Adjust seasoning levels to suit your taste; add more Cajun seasoning for extra heat.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the beef after shredding and reduce the cooking liquid in a pan over medium heat before mixing back in.
- Leftover BBQ beef keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with coleslaw or pickles for added texture and flavor contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker BBQ beef, shredded beef, slow cooked beef roast, BBQ beef sandwiches, easy slow cooker recipes

