These pulled beef sandwiches are a tasty treat! Slow-cooked beef is so tender it falls apart, making it perfect piled high on soft buns. Top it with zesty barbecue sauce for extra flavor!
There’s nothing like a messy sandwich that drips down your hands! I love making these for game day or a casual gathering. They’re easy to whip up, and everyone loves them! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking. It’s flavorful and becomes tender when cooked for a long time. If you’re looking for a substitute, try beef brisket or a bottom round roast, though neither will be as tender.
Barbecue Sauce: I like using a tangy barbecue sauce to enhance the flavor. You can make your own with ketchup, vinegar, and spices or use any store-bought version. If you prefer a different flavor, a tangy mustard sauce could work too!
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add a nice layer of flavor. For a milder taste, you can use shallots instead of onions. Garlic powder (1 teaspoon per clove) is okay if you’re out of fresh garlic.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is great, but you could try Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for some heat. Just make sure it melts well on your sandwich.
Sandwich Buns: Brioche and pretzel buns are fantastic choices. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free buns or wraps. I personally love a toasted bun for added crunch!
How Can I Ensure Tender, Shreddable Beef?
Getting the beef just right is key for a great pulled beef sandwich. The secret lies in the slow cooking process. It really brings out the flavors and tenderness!
- Start by seasoning the chuck roast with salt and pepper to build flavor.
- Sear it in a hot skillet until browned on all sides—this step locks in the juices.
- Simmer gently on low heat for 3-4 hours or use a slow cooker on low for 8 hours. The low heat is crucial as it helps break down the tough fibers in the meat.
- When it’s done, use two forks to shred the meat easily, then mix it back with the sauce to absorb more flavor.
By following these tips, your pulled beef will be deliciously tender and bursting with flavor! Enjoy your sandwich creation!
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwich?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Beef:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche or pretzel)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 3-4 hours to cook on the stove (or 8 hours in a slow cooker). Just a little patience while the beef cooks, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful sandwich to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper on all sides. This adds a nice flavor to the meat.
2. Searing the Meat:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the beef and sear it until it’s browned on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, take the beef out and set it aside.
3. Sautéing Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Cook it until it turns translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma!
4. Adding Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin. Give it a good stir to mix everything together and let it simmer.
5. Slow Cooking the Beef:
Now, put the seared beef chuck roast back into the skillet, cover it, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and easy to shred with a fork. If you’re using a slow cooker, transfer everything there and cook on low for 8 hours instead.
6. Shredding the Beef:
Once the beef is done cooking, carefully remove it from the skillet (or slow cooker). Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Then, return the shredded beef to the sauce and stir to let it soak up all those delicious flavors for about 10 minutes.
7. Assembling the Sandwiches:
Lightly toast the sandwich buns if you like. Take the bottom half of each bun and place a generous amount of the pulled beef on it. Top it with a slice of cheddar cheese, and add some extra barbecue sauce if you prefer it saucy!
8. Melting the Cheese:
If you want melted cheese, place the assembled sandwiches under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
9. Serving:
Finally, place the top half of the bun on your sandwich and serve it with pickles on the side, if desired. Enjoy your mouthwatering Pulled Beef Sandwich!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket or a round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially for leaner cuts, which may need slightly less cooking time to prevent drying out.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you enjoy some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the onions and garlic while sautéing. You can also choose a spicy barbecue sauce or add a dash of hot sauce to the beef broth mixture for an extra kick!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pulled beef for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing, and portion it out for easy reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pulled beef a day in advance. Just let it cool after cooking, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or sauce to keep it moist. Then assemble your sandwiches as usual!
