This Pulled Beef Sandwich is like a warm hug on a bun! It’s made with tender beef that’s slow-cooked until it’s super juicy and flavorful.
There’s something so satisfying about piling that beef high on a bun, topped with your favorite sauce. It’s perfect for weekends or game nights—just grab some extra napkins! 😄
I love serving these sandwiches with crunchy pickles and crispy fries on the side. Trust me, it’s a meal that everyone will enjoy and keep coming back for more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is favored for its tenderness when slow-cooked. If you can’t find chuck roast, you might substitute with brisket or round roast, which can also yield delicious pulled beef.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade! If you’re avoiding sugar, look for a sugar-free option or make your own using tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices.
Onion & Garlic: These two add great depth. If you’re short on time, consider using onion powder and garlic powder instead—just adjust the amounts to your taste.
Bun Choices: Brioche and pretzel buns are delicious, but you could use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if you prefer. Potato rolls would also work well!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its tanginess! If you’re feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for a spicy twist or Swiss if you like milder flavors.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor When Cooking the Beef?
Getting the best flavor from your pulled beef relies heavily on searing and slow cooking. Here’s how:
- Sear the Beef: Searing locks in juices. Heat the oil until hot, then add the seasoned meat. Brown it on all sides—this step packs a flavor punch!
- Slow Cooking: The longer you cook it on low, the more tender it becomes. Aim for that 8-hour mark if you can. This is when the flavors meld perfectly.
- Shredding Technique: Let the beef cool slightly before shredding. It helps to keep your hands safe! Use two forks to easily pull it apart.
Remember, let the shredded beef soak in the sauce for an extra 10 minutes. This makes a big difference in taste!
How to Make a Pulled Beef Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 4 burger buns (preferably brioche or pretzel)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles and onion slices for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare, along with 4 to 8 hours of cooking time in a slow cooker. It’s easy to prepare and lets you enjoy a delicious meal with very little fuss. Just let the slow cooker do the magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season your beef chuck roast with some salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, sear the beef on all sides until it’s nice and browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. After browning, carefully remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it smells really good. This will add a nice flavor to your dish!
3. Prepare Cooking Liquid:
Now, grab your slow cooker. In it, mix together the beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin. Don’t forget to add in that lovely onion and garlic mixture you just cooked. Give everything a good stir to combine!
4. Cook the Beef:
Place the seared beef roast into the slow cooker. Make sure it gets fully covered by that delicious sauce you just made. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is really tender and can be easily pulled apart with a fork.
5. Shred the Beef:
Once the cooking time is up, take the beef out of the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Toss the shredded beef back into the slow cooker and mix it well with the sauce. Let it chill there for another 10 minutes so it can soak up even more flavor.
6. Prepare the Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, slice each burger bun in half and lay them out on a baking sheet. Load up the bottom halves with a good amount of pulled beef, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and then place the top halves over them.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the buns are lightly toasted. Keep an eye on them so they don’t get too brown!
8. Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and serve warm. Add a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce on top if you like. Feel free to garnish with pickles and onion slices for a tasty crunch. Enjoy every bite of your Pulled Beef Sandwich!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! If you can’t find beef chuck roast, you can substitute with brisket or a round roast. Just ensure that the cut you choose has some fat to keep it moist during cooking, as lean cuts may dry out.
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Beef?
Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before freezing; when ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! To make pulled beef in an Instant Pot, follow the same initial steps, then seal the pot and cook the beef on high pressure for 60 minutes. Allow it to naturally release for 15 minutes before switching to quick release for any remaining pressure. Shred and mix with the sauce as directed!
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, you can mix together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of smoked paprika to create a simple homemade version. Adjust the sweetness and acidity to your taste! Alternatively, a robust chili sauce works well too.
