Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe

Slow Cooker Barbacoa Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Rich, tender slow cooker barbacoa delivers Mexican-style beef perfection with deep spices and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Succulent meat promises a delicious meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 3.5 pounds boneless chuck roast (good quality)

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Other Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup low sodium beef broth
  • 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon freshly minced cilantro

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the beef by searing it in a scorching skillet with vegetable oil, creating a rich golden-brown exterior on both surfaces.
  2. Craft a robust spice blend combining salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and paprika, thoroughly massaging the mixture into every crevice of the chuck roast.
  3. Transfer the generously seasoned meat into the slow cooker and delicately pour beef broth around the roast, ensuring moisture for tenderizing.
  4. Secure the lid and allow the meat to transform slowly, cooking on low temperature for 8-9 hours until the protein becomes extraordinarily soft and easily pulls apart.
  5. Gently disintegrate the succulent meat using two forks directly within the cooking liquid, creating delicate, juicy strands.
  6. Elevate the barbacoa’s flavor profile by garnishing with freshly squeezed lime juice and a vibrant sprinkle of chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Choose a well-marbled chuck roast for maximum tenderness and rich flavor during slow cooking.
  • Pat the meat dry before searing to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in juices and develops deep, complex flavors.
  • Adjust spice blend intensity by increasing or decreasing chili powder for those who prefer milder or bolder tastes.
  • For low-carb and keto diets, serve the barbacoa over cauliflower rice or wrapped in large lettuce leaves instead of traditional tortillas.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 630 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg