This pulled beef sandwich is a hearty delight with tender beef, cooked to perfection and piled high on a soft roll. It’s super satisfying and perfect for lunch or dinner!
There’s something about that juicy beef and tangy sauce that makes it extra special. I sometimes add extra pickles because, well, why not? They’re crunchy and fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking due to its balance of meat and fat. If you can’t find chuck roast, brisket or shoulder roast works well too.
Onion: A large onion adds great depth of flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can use shallots or even leeks as alternatives.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand for a personal touch! For a healthier option, opt for sugar-free barbecue sauce, or make your own using tomato sauce with spices.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you want a different taste, pepper jack adds a nice kick, or you could use mozzarella for a milder flavor.
How Do I Properly Sear Meat for Maximum Flavor?
Searing the meat is an important step that adds a rich flavor to your pulled beef. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always start with a hot skillet; oil helps create a beautiful crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear one roast at a time to ensure even browning.
- Let the meat brown for 3-4 minutes before flipping. Resist the urge to move it around too much.
The goal is to create a caramelized surface that locks in the juices for flaky, tender beef later on. Happy cooking!
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwich?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Beef:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembling the Sandwich:
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pulled Beef Sandwich will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook for 8 hours in a slow cooker. After you let it cook, you’ll spend a few more minutes assembling your sandwiches. Perfect for a relaxed day at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Beef:
Start by generously seasoning the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef on all sides until it’s nice and browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside for now.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In your slow cooker, combine the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Give it a good mix to bring all the flavors together.
3. Cook the Beef:
Place the seared beef roast into the slow cooker, making sure it’s submerged in the sauce mixture. Cover the slow cooker and cook it on low for 8 hours. When it’s done, the beef should be very tender and will shred easily with a fork.
4. Shred the Beef:
Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the beef directly in the slow cooker. Mix the shredded beef with the sauce to make sure every bite is packed with flavor.
5. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
Lightly toast the brioche buns. Place a generous portion of the pulled beef on the bottom half of each bun, and top it with shredded cheddar cheese. If you like, add pickles for a crunchy touch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Cover the sandwiches with the top half of the bun. Serve them right away with extra barbecue sauce on the side, if you want. Enjoy your scrumptious Pulled Beef Sandwich!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose, so ensure it’s cooked until tender.
What Can I Use Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, you can make a quick replacement using ketchup mixed with a bit of vinegar, honey, and spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder. This will give you a similar sweet and tangy flavor!
How to Store Leftover Pulled Beef?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, place the pulled beef in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Cook This in the Oven Instead of a Slow Cooker?
Yes! To cook this in the oven, sear the beef as per the recipe, then place it in a Dutch oven with the sauce mixture. Cover tightly and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours, or until it’s tender and shreds easily. Just check occasionally to ensure there’s enough liquid!
