Barbecue Shredded Beef
Juicy shredded beef smothered in smoky barbecue sauce, perfect for sandwiches and casual gatherings. Rich flavors and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chuck roast until very tender in a small amount of water with 3 teaspoons salt.
- While the meat is cooking, make the barbecue sauce.
- Melt the shortening in a pan and add the chopped onion; cook until tender but not brown.
- Add paprika, pepper, dry mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic to the onion mixture.
- Cook the sauce over low heat for 20 minutes.
- Shred the cooked beef and add it to the sauce.
- Cover and simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
- Serve the shredded beef on hamburger buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chuck roast overnight in a mixture of Worcestershire sauce and spices. If you prefer a spicy kick, add more cayenne or use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. For a healthier option, substitute the shortening with olive oil or avocado oil. You can also use beef broth instead of water for cooking the meat to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue shredded beef on toasted hamburger buns for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with sides like Crispy Cole Slaw or Honey Sugared Pecans for a sweet crunch. For a complete dinner, consider offering Emporium Chili as a hearty side dish, rounding out the flavors of your barbecue feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover barbecue shredded beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beef in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Shredded Beef contains roughly 202 calories, with 6g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast, but chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which makes the meat tender and flavorful. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly for different cuts.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the shredded beef and barbecue sauce a day in advance. Simply cook the meat and mix it with the sauce, then let it cool before refrigerating. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving for a quick meal.
What can I do with the leftover barbecue shredded beef?
Leftover barbecue shredded beef can be used in a variety of dishes. Try it in tacos, on top of nachos, or mixed into a hearty chili. It's also delicious in sandwiches or wraps for a quick lunch option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).