This pulled beef sandwich is a tasty treat! It’s made with juicy, slow-cooked beef that’s tender and flavorful, all piled high on soft bread. Yum!
When I make these sandwiches, I can’t help but add a scoop of coleslaw for crunch. It’s like a party in my mouth! You’ll want to share, but good luck with that! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This is the star of the show! It’s great for slow cooking because it’s flavorful and becomes tender. If you can’t find chuck roast, you can use brisket or round roast as alternatives.
Onion and Garlic: They add a wonderful base flavor. You can use shallots instead of onion for a milder taste, or garlic powder if you’re out of fresh garlic, but fresh really is best!
Barbecue Sauce: Any favorite barbecue sauce works, but I love a smoky one for depth. If you’re avoiding sugar, try a sugar-free alternative or make your own sauce.
Burger Buns: While brioche and pretzel buns are preferred, any sturdy bun will do. Try whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is perfect for adding creaminess. Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of heat!
How Do I Brown Meat Properly for Maximum Flavor?
Brown the beef to enhance its flavor with a tasty crust that locks in juices. Follow these steps for great results:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat before adding oil.
- Sear the roast for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s a rich brown color.
- This step is key for building flavor, so don’t rush it! Browning adds depth to your dish.
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly:
- 6 burger buns (preferably brioche or pretzel)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: pickles or coleslaw for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 8-10 hours for cooking in a slow cooker, or about 4-5 hours in the oven. You’ll get to relax while the beef becomes tender and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Cooker:
Start by preheating your slow cooker to a low setting, or if you’re using an oven, set it to 300°F (150°C). This way, everything is ready to go for cooking!
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, brown the beef chuck roast on all sides. This process is important because it locks in the flavors and gives the meat a nice color. You only need to do this for a few minutes until it’s nicely browned.
3. Add Ingredients:
Carefully transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Now, add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a little stir to mix everything together nicely.
4. Cook the Beef:
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 8-10 hours, or in the oven for about 4-5 hours. It’s done when the beef is super tender and easy to shred with a fork. Just relax and let the magic happen!
5. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, take it out of the cooker and shred it using two forks. This is where it gets delicious! Return the shredded beef to the sauce and stir it well. This will soak up all that amazing flavor.
6. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
If you like, toast your burger buns to make them extra tasty. For each sandwich, pile on a generous amount of pulled beef, add a handful of shredded cheddar cheese, and any extra toppings you want, like pickles or coleslaw.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Pulled Beef Sandwiches immediately and enjoy every bite! They’re perfect for bringing friends and family together.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes! While chuck roast is ideal for its flavor and tenderness, you can substitute it with brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the sauce about 30 minutes before the end of cooking and stir well. This will help thicken the sauce without compromising the flavor!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems dry.
Can I Freeze Pulled Beef?
Absolutely! Pulled beef freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results.
