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
Scale
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
