Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Tacos

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Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Tacos Recipe

Tender, flavorful shredded beef cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, these tacos are perfect for weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing party dish. Top them with your favorite garnishes for the ultimate taco experience!

Ingredients

For the Beef:

  • 2–3 pounds beef chuck roast (trimmed of excess fat)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion (sliced)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the can)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Tacos:

  • Corn or flour tortillas
  • Toppings: diced onions, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

  1. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 2–3 minutes per side). Transfer to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

  1. In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add them to the slow cooker.
  2. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef

  1. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–6 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

  1. Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
  2. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it with the juices. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

  1. Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
  2. Fill each tortilla with shredded beef and top with your favorite garnishes.

Tips for the Best Shredded Beef Tacos

  • Make It Juicy: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the juices from the slow cooker on the stovetop until slightly reduced.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: The shredded beef can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Custom Toppings: Experiment with pickled onions, crumbled queso fresco, or a drizzle of spicy crema for unique flavors.

Serve these mouthwatering shredded beef tacos with rice, beans, or a side of chips and guacamole for a complete meal.

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