Shredded Barbecue Beef

Prep: 15 min Cook: 240 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Shredded Barbecue Beef offers tender, flavorful meat infused with smoky, tangy, and sweet notes. Perfect for sandwiches or served over rice, it appeals to those who love hearty, savory dishes with a hint of zest. Ideal for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. beef roast
  • 1 large onion
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 3 Tbsp. Worcestershire
  • 1/2 c. water
  • 4 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 c. catsup
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 1/2 c. diced celery

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together well in a bowl.
  2. Pour the mixture over the raw beef roast.
  3. Cover the roasting dish with foil.
  4. Bake at 350°F for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Remove from the oven and shred the beef with a fork.
  6. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider marinating the beef roast overnight in the mixture. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste, or use honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile. If you like it spicy, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. This recipe is similar to classic American recipes, making it versatile and enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions

This shredded barbecue beef is delicious served on buns for sandwiches or over rice. Pair it with coleslaw or baked beans for a classic barbecue meal. It also complements dishes like Texas Casserole or Barbecue Bake, making it a great addition to any gathering or potluck.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shredded beef in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered, in short intervals.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Shredded Barbecue Beef contains roughly 248 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

248 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.2g 12% DV
Total Fat 1.8g 2% DV
Carbs 45.8g 17% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 36.8g 74% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 500.2mg 22% DV
Potassium 456.7mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 11.6mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 36.7mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 2.4mg 3% DV
Calcium 73.9mg 6% DV
Iron 2.6mg 14% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure they have enough fat content for shredding. Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness before shredding.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until fork-tender. This method can enhance the flavors even more.

What can I serve with shredded barbecue beef?

Shredded barbecue beef pairs well with a variety of sides. Try serving it with cornbread, potato salad, or grilled vegetables. It also makes a great topping for nachos or baked potatoes.

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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