These easy pulled beef sandwiches are super tasty and perfect for a cozy dinner! With tender beef, sweet barbecue sauce, and soft buns, they’re a hit with everyone.
Honestly, it’s hard to eat just one! I love piling on extra sauce and enjoying them at a casual gathering. They’re quick to make and sure to please, just like a warm hug in sandwich form!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal because it becomes tender when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for options, brisket or round roast can work too, though they may have slightly different textures.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand for convenience! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try a low-sugar barbecue sauce or homemade sauce with less sugar. Personally, I enjoy a bit of smoky flavor in my sauce.
Onions: Yellow onions are fantastic for this recipe due to their sweetness when cooked. If you prefer a milder taste, substitute with sweet Vidalia onions. You could also leave them out if you want less texture.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend using sharp cheddar for a nice flavor contrast against the barbecue sauce. However, feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss if you prefer different flavors.
How Can I Make Sure My Beef is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender pulled beef is cooking it low and slow. Here’s how:
- Sear the Beef: Don’t skip this step! Searing locks in flavors and juices. Keep the heat high to form a nice crust on the outside.
- Slow Cooker Tips: Set your slow cooker to low for at least 7-8 hours for the best results. If you’re pressed for time, go for high for about 4 hours, but check that the beef is still tender.
- Shredding: Use two forks for shredding the beef. Go easy; it should fall apart easily. Combining it with the cooking juices and extra barbecue sauce keeps it moist and flavorful.
Following these tips will ensure your pulled beef is not only tender but also bursting with flavor!
Easy Pulled Beef Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Beef: 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- Liquid: 1 cup beef broth
- BBQ Sauce: 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Cooking Oil: 1 tbsp olive oil
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Spices: 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Spices: 1 tsp chili powder
- Spices: 1 tsp ground cumin
- Seasoning: 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Seasoning: 1/2 tsp salt
- Buns: 4-6 sandwich buns (brioche or soft hamburger buns work great)
- Cheese: 6-8 slices cheddar cheese
- Optional: pickles or coleslaw for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to let it slow cook for 7-8 hours on low (or 4 hours on high). Total time includes cooking, so it’s perfect for a busy day when you want to set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef:
Start by patting the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better. Then, rub it all over with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin for great flavor.
2. Searing the Beef:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the beef roast and sear it on all sides until deeply browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is key for adding extra flavor!
3. Slow Cooking:
Transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker. Add the sliced onions, minced garlic, beef broth, and half of the barbecue sauce. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
4. Cooking Time:
Cook the beef on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the meat is very tender and easy to shred with a fork. You can’t go wrong with this slow cooking method!
5. Pulling the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef back to the slow cooker, mixing it with the cooking juices and the remaining barbecue sauce for added flavor.
6. Preparing Buns and Cheese:
Split the sandwich buns in half and toast them lightly if you desire. Next, pile a generous amount of the pulled beef onto each bun bottom, and top it off with slices of cheddar cheese.
7. Melting the Cheese:
If you want that gooey cheese effect (like in the photo!), place the open sandwich under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted, or you can microwave them for about 20-30 seconds.
8. Assembling the Sandwich:
Once the cheese is melted, place the bun tops onto the cheese-covered beef. If you like, add pickles or coleslaw for an extra crunch and a burst of flavor!
9. Serving:
Serve the pulled beef sandwiches immediately while they’re hot and juicy. Enjoy your delicious, easy pulled beef sandwiches with your favorite sides, like fries or potato salad!
This recipe is sure to impress with its tender, juicy pulled beef loaded with rich barbecue flavor, perfectly complemented by melted cheddar on soft buns. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness when slow-cooked, you can also use brisket or shoulder. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.
Can I Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Sear the beef in the Instant Pot using the sauté function, then add the other ingredients and cook on high pressure for 60-70 minutes. Let it naturally release for about 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
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 longer storage—just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the pulled beef a day in advance. Simply let it cool, refrigerate it, and then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just add a bit of broth or extra barbecue sauce to keep it moist!
