Go Back
–+ servings
Slow Cooker Barbacoa

Flavorful Slow Cooker Barbacoa for Tasty Taco Nights

Discover the deliciousness of Slow Cooker Barbacoa, a comforting, flavor-packed dish perfect for taco nights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 2 pounds Beef Chuck Roast Tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup Apple Juice Vinegar Can use white vinegar if necessary.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice Can substitute with lemon juice.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with canola oil.
For the Flavor Base
  • 1 medium Onion Enhances flavor base.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder in a pinch.
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin Key spice for depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be used at a higher ratio.
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika Substitute with regular paprika and a dash of liquid smoke.
  • 1 teaspoon Chipotle Powder Optional for added heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
For Cooking
  • 1 cup Beef Broth Can use low-sodium broth.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Optional; can omit if not available.
For Serving
  • 8 pieces Warm Tortillas Substitute with lettuce wraps for keto option.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Omit for a different flavor profile.
  • 2 pieces Lime Wedges

Equipment

  • slow cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Barbacoa
  1. In a medium bowl, combine ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create a flavorful spice blend.
  2. Pat the beef chuck roast dry, then cut it into manageable chunks. Rub the spice blend all over the beef pieces.
  3. If time allows, marinate the beef in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  4. Place the seasoned beef chunks in your slow cooker in a single layer.
  5. Add minced garlic, lime juice, bay leaves, and beef broth into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours, until beef is tender.
  7. Remove the beef, let it rest for about 10 minutes, and then shred it using two forks.
  8. Serve the shredded beef warm on tortillas with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Marinating the beef overnight can enhance the flavors. Adjust spices to your taste preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!