This pulled beef sandwich is a tasty treat! It’s made with tender, shredded beef that’s cooked down with delicious spices, all piled high on a fresh bun. Yummy!
I love how quick it is to make these sandwiches for a gathering. Just throw the beef in a slow cooker and let it do all the work while you relax with friends! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for pulling because it has enough fat to keep the meat tender. If you can’t find chuck roast, you can use brisket or shoulder for similar results.
Barbecue Sauce: I love a smoky barbecue sauce in this recipe. If you prefer a different flavor, you can try a mustard-based or vinegar-based sauce. You can even use homemade sauce if you have a favorite recipe!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a great depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, normal paprika or chili powder can work in a pinch, though they may lack the smokiness.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite to the sandwiches. If you’re not keen on cheddar, consider pepper jack for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Shredded Beef?
Shredding beef can be tricky, but it’s essential to get those tender, pull-apart pieces. After cooking, let the beef rest for a few minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Use two forks to pull the beef apart. Start with a larger piece and shred it into smaller strands.
- Make sure to mix the shredded beef back into the sauce to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- If the beef feels tough, return it to the pot and let it cook for a little longer until it’s easily shredded.
Remember, the key to great pulled beef is low and slow cooking. Don’t rush it, and you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful results every time!
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Beef:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly:
- 4 burger buns (preferably brioche)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pulled Beef Sandwich takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 3-4 hours to cook in the oven. The long cooking time makes the beef super tender and flavorful, so it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Initial Preparation:
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking process will help make the beef tender.
2. Searing the Beef:
In a large Dutch oven or an oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the beef roast with salt and black pepper. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef on all sides until it’s browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. After browning, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing by now!
4. Slow Cooking:
Now, return the seared beef roast to the pot. Add the beef broth, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin. Stir everything together, bring it to a simmer, cover the pot with a lid, and carefully transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Cooking Time:
Let the beef cook in the oven for about 3-4 hours. It’s done when it’s fork-tender and falls apart easily. This is the time to relax while your kitchen fills with delicious aromas!
6. Shredding the Beef:
Once the cooking time is up, remove the pot from the oven and take the beef out. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to mix the shredded beef back into the sauce in the pot, ensuring it’s nice and flavorful!
7. Assembly:
To put together your sandwiches, take the bottom half of each bun and place a generous amount of the pulled beef on it. Add some shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you like, you can also sprinkle some pickles for a nice crunch!
8. Melting the Cheese:
This step is optional: to make your sandwiches extra cheesy, you can place them under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
9. Serving:
Finally, place the top half of the bun on each sandwich, serve them up with extra barbecue sauce on the side, and enjoy your homemade Pulled Beef Sandwich! They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness, you can substitute it with brisket or short ribs. Just be prepared for slight differences in cooking time and texture. Make sure to adjust based on the cut’s thickness and fat content!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded beef in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing the onion and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the broth, barbecue sauce, and spices, then cook on low for 6-8 hours until the meat is tender. Shred and serve as directed!
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, try using a mix of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. Adjust the proportions to suit your taste, and feel free to add a splash of hot sauce for some heat!
