This Pulled Beef Sandwich is perfect for a cozy meal! It’s made with tender, slow-cooked beef that’s packed with flavor and served on soft buns. Yum!
If you’re like me, you can never have enough barbecue sauce on top! I love adding pickles for a tasty crunch—just makes it even better! 🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking because it’s tender with great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, try a brisket or round roast instead. Just make sure it has some marbling for tenderness!
Barbecue Sauce: The sauce adds a nice tangy sweetness. You can use homemade or store-bought, but if you want a healthier version, look for one with less sugar or make your own with tomato sauce and spices.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a rich smokiness to your beef. If you can’t find it, regular paprika works, though it will lack that unique depth. You can also add a bit of liquid smoke to mimic the flavor.
S Sandwich Rolls: I love using brioche for its softness, but pretzel rolls add a fun twist. If you want a healthier option, whole wheat rolls are great too. Just keep the texture in mind.
Cheddar Cheese: While I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, feel free to swap it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you like a bit of heat!
How to Achieve Flavorful Pulled Beef?
The key to this recipe is in the slow cooking process. Searing the meat first locks in juices and flavor. Just remember, patience is your friend! Slow cooking the beef allows the spices and sauces to enhance the flavor beautifully.
- Make sure to sear the beef until browned on all sides to get a depth of flavor.
- Use a good quality beef broth; homemade is best, but low-sodium store options work too.
- After cooking, shred the beef while warm to ensure it mixes well with the juices.
- Baking the sandwiches to melt the cheese is crucial for that comforting texture, so don’t skip it!
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Beef:
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 sandwich rolls (preferably brioche or pretzel)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: pickles or coleslaw for toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and then 8 hours of cooking in a slow cooker. After that, you’ll bake the sandwiches for about 15 minutes. Get ready for some delicious pulled beef sandwiches that are super easy to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef chuck roast and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, take the beef out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion. Cook it until it’s soft, which should take about 3-5 minutes. After that, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute. Stir it often to prevent burning.
3. Prepare for the Slow Cooker:
Grab your slow cooker. Combine the seared beef, sautéed onions and garlic, beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper in it. Make sure everything is mixed well.
4. Slow Cook the Beef:
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is super tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. It’s worth the wait!
5. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is done cooking, take it out of the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker, mixing it well with the juices to soak up all that flavorful goodness.
6. Prepare the Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take some baking sheets and place the sandwich rolls on them. Fill each roll with a generous portion of pulled beef, making sure it’s packed in there nicely, and then top with a good amount of shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake the Sandwiches:
Once your oven is ready, bake the filled sandwiches for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you want the cheese to melt and the rolls to get a bit toasty and golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the sandwiches out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, drizzled with additional barbecue sauce, and feel free to add pickles or coleslaw on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your tasty pulled beef sandwiches!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes, you can use different cuts of beef, such as brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the size and cut, so adjust your cooking time accordingly until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with jackfruit or a hearty plant-based meat alternative. If using jackfruit, make sure to use young green jackfruit packed in water or brine, and cook it in the same way, adjusting the seasoning based on your preference.
How to Store Leftover Pulled Beef?
Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I Make These Sandwiches Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pulled beef a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving. Assemble the sandwiches right before baking so the rolls stay fresh and warm!
