Slow Cooked Barbacoa Beef Tacos

Name: Slow Cooked Barbacoa Beef Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 lbs beef chuck roast; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 cups beef broth; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chipotle powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Corn tortillas; Chopped cilantro; Diced onions; Lime wedges; Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Bowl Recipes

Slow Cooked Barbacoa Beef Tacos are a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy tender, slow-cooked beef wrapped in warm tortillas. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting family meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:09:48.570Z

Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish that is typically made with beef, slow-cooked with spices until tender. These tacos allow you to experience the rich flavors and aromas of barbacoa in a convenient and tasty format.

        Why You Will Love These Tacos
        Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
Flavorful spices that create a depth of taste
Versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings

      

The Secret to Perfect Barbacoa

To achieve the most tender and flavorful barbacoa, searing the beef chuck roast is essential. This step locks in the juices and adds a rich, caramelized flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. While it may seem time-consuming, it’s worth the extra effort for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Choosing the right cut of beef is also crucial. Chuck roast is ideal because it is well-marbled, which means it has the fat needed to keep the meat moist during the slow-cooking process. This fat breaks down over hours of cooking, resulting in incredibly tender beef that can be easily shredded.

Customizing Your Tacos

One of the best things about barbacoa beef tacos is their versatility. While the classic toppings of cilantro and onions are delicious, feel free to get creative! Try adding avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of queso fresco to elevate the flavors.

If you're looking for a spicy kick, drizzle your tacos with your favorite hot sauce or add fresh diced tomatoes for a refreshing contrast. You can even switch up the tortillas; corn is traditional, but flour tortillas can offer a different texture and taste that some may prefer.

Perfect Pairings

Pairing your barbacoa beef tacos with the right sides can enhance your meal significantly. Consider serving them with a side of Mexican street corn, also known as elote, which brings a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the savory beef nicely.

A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette can also be a great addition, providing a crunchy and zesty contrast to the richness of the tacos. For drinks, a refreshing agua fresca or a light beer can round out the meal perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your barbacoa beef tacos:

For the Barbacoa Beef

3 lbs beef chuck roast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 cups beef broth
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chipotle powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Corn tortillas
Chopped cilantro
Diced onions
Lime wedges
Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your slow-cooked barbacoa beef tacos:

Prepare the Beef

Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Ingredients

In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, beef broth, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and chipotle powder. Stir to combine.

Add the Beef

Place the seared beef into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.

Shred the Beef

Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker to soak up the juices.

Serve

Warm the corn tortillas. Fill each tortilla with the shredded barbacoa beef and top with chopped cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. Serve with salsa or hot sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delicious slow-cooked barbacoa beef tacos!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover barbacoa beef, it stores wonderfully in the refrigerator. Place the shredded beef in an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the beef. It can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Health Benefits of Barbacoa

Barbacoa beef is not only delicious but can also be a part of a balanced diet. Beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It also contains vital nutrients like iron and zinc, which support overall health.

When paired with fresh toppings like cilantro and lime, you add vitamins and minerals that boost the nutritional profile of your meal. Choosing whole corn tortillas can also provide fiber, enhancing the healthiness of your tacos.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or a round roast, but chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the barbacoa?

Yes, the barbacoa beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What toppings can I use?

You can add avocado, cheese, sour cream, or any of your favorite taco toppings!