Slow Cooker Barbacoa Beef Tacos
Tender, fall-apart beef slow-cooked to perfection with smoky spices, wrapped in warm tortillas for a taco night to remember.
Total: 250 minPrep: 10 minCook: 240 minServes 6Difficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (125+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn tortillas, for serving
- Toppings: chopped cilantro, diced onions, lime wedges, salsa
Steps
- 1 Season the beef with salt and pepper.
- 2 Heat olive oil in the slow cooker and sear the beef on all sides.
- 3 Remove the beef and add onions to the slow cooker, cooking until softened.
- 4 Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and garlic; cook for 1 minute.
- 5 Return beef to the slow cooker and add diced tomatoes, beef broth, and vinegar.
- 6 Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 6 hours.
- 7 Shred the beef with two forks directly in the slow cooker.
- 8 Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 9 Warm corn tortillas.
- 10 Serve beef in tortillas with desired toppings.
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board and knife
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
Variations
- Add a can of chipotle peppers in adobo for a spicier kick.
- Use beef short ribs for a richer flavor.
Substitutions
- If you don't have beef broth, substitute with chicken broth.
- Use chili flakes in place of chili powder for a different heat profile.
Pairings
- Classic Mexican rice and refried beans
- A crisp Mexican lager or a zesty lime margarita
Nutrition
Calories:
450 kcal
Fat:
25g fat
Carbs:
15g carbohydrates
Protein:
40g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
3g sugar
Sodium:
600mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, crisp up some tortilla strips to use as a garnish.
- Leftovers are great for burritos or taco salads the next day.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat with a splash of broth.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh avocado crema and a side of Mexican rice.
- Pair with a vibrant mango salsa for a refreshing twist.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, beef shoulder or brisket work well too.
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a Dutch oven and cook it low and slow in the oven.