Beef Barbacoa Slow Cooker Recipe: Rich and Flavorful
Classic Beef Barbacoa with rich, spiced flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 8 hours hrs
Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo minced (plus 2 tbsp sauce)
- 1 medium onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: Fresh cilantro lime wedges
- Suggested Pairings: Tortillas Mexican beer
Sear beef in olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side; transfer to a slow cooker.
Blend broth, chipotle, onion, garlic, lime juice, vinegar, and spices. Taste and adjust the sauce flavor.
Pour sauce over beef; add bay leaves. Cook on low for 8–10 hours.
Shred beef in sauce; remove bay leaves.
Serve in a white ceramic bowl with cilantro, lime, tortillas, and beer.
- Sear beef for the best flavor.
- Store in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Try vegan or spicy variations.
- Pair with rice.