Chipotle Beef Barbacoa (Slow Cooker)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chipotle Beef Barbacoa made in the slow cooker is bold, tender, and packed with smoky, spicy flavor. With melt-in-your-mouth shredded beef simmered in a rich chipotle-laced sauce, it’s perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls, or salads. Set-it-and-forget-it convenience makes this dish a favorite for weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef chuck roastchipotle peppers in adobo saucegarlic clovesonionbeef brothapple cider vinegarlime juiceground cuminoregano (preferably Mexican)ground clovesbay leavesolive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Cut the beef into large chunks and season with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.

In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, garlic, onion, beef broth, vinegar, lime juice, cumin, oregano, and cloves. Blend until smooth.

Pour the sauce over the beef in the slow cooker and add bay leaves.

Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded.

Remove the bay leaves and shred the beef using two forks. Stir the meat into the sauce.

Serve hot with your choice of tortillas, rice, or salad.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesSearing and blending: 10 minutesSlow cooking time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)Total time: 8.5–10.5 hours (low) or 4.5–6.5 hours (high)

Variations

Use brisket or short ribs for a different beef cut.

Add a touch of brown sugar for subtle sweetness.

Stir in fresh cilantro or diced jalapeños before serving for freshness and heat.

Serve with pickled onions, avocado, or queso fresco for toppings.

Swap beef for pork shoulder for a carnitas-style twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftover barbacoa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or in the microwave.This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I skip searing the beef?

You can, but searing adds extra flavor to the final dish.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a moderate heat; reduce chipotle peppers for milder flavor.

Can I use ground beef?

No, this recipe is best with a cut like chuck roast that shreds well.

What’s the best way to serve barbacoa?

Tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, or even sandwiches.

Can I make it in the Instant Pot?

Yes, pressure cook on high for about 60 minutes with natural release.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your slow cooker is large enough and increase cook time slightly if needed.

Do I have to blend the sauce?

Yes, blending gives the barbacoa its signature smooth and rich texture.

Can I use fresh chilies instead of canned chipotle?

Canned chipotle in adobo is recommended for authentic smoky flavor.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered after shredding, or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your adobo sauce and broth are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chipotle Beef Barbacoa (Slow Cooker) is the ultimate low-effort, high-reward meal. With deep, smoky flavor and fall-apart tender meat, it’s endlessly versatile and always satisfying. Perfect for feeding a crowd or stocking your freezer, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold, comforting food.

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