Crock-Pot Barbecue Beef

Prep: 10 min Cook: 480 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Tender, flavorful shredded beef slow-cooked in a smoky barbecue sauce, perfect for sandwiches or served with sides. The rich, savory taste is complemented by onions and Worcestershire, making it a crowd-pleasing dish suitable for casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or outdoor cookouts.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. chuck roast
  • 1 c. water
  • 1 bottle barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 c. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp. prepared mustard
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Place all ingredients in a crock-pot and cook on high until mixture boils.
  2. Then turn to low and simmer for 6 to 8 hours.
  3. Chop cooked meat and serve on sandwich rolls.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or smoked paprika to the mix. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can serve as a substitute. To thicken the sauce, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. This dish is versatile, so feel free to try it with different barbecue sauces that suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecue beef on soft sandwich rolls for a satisfying meal. Pair it with a side of coleslaw or a refreshing Confetti Salad for a complete plate. For a hearty dinner, consider adding baked beans or corn on the cob. This dish also goes well with a chilled Sun-Drop Punch, making it a perfect summer cookout option.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover barbecue beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place the beef in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crock-Pot Barbecue Beef contains roughly 338 calories, with 37g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (75% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 648mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).

338 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 37.4g 75% DV
Total Fat 15.2g 19% DV
Carbs 13g 5% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 3.4g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 647.7mg 28% DV
Potassium 685.6mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 116.6mg 39% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8.1mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1.6mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 54.8mg 4% DV
Iron 4.6mg 25% DV
Diet fit High-protein Low-carb Under 400 cal

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 meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the chuck roast with brisket or short ribs, though cooking times may vary. Just ensure the meat is well-marbled for optimal tenderness after slow cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the meat first, then add the other ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes, followed by a natural release.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the barbecue beef a day in advance. Just cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

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).

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