Pulled Beef Sandwich

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful. If unavailable, you can substitute with brisket or a round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand for the best flavor! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sugar-free barbecue sauce. Homemade barbecue sauce also adds a personal touch.

Cheese: I love using shredded cheddar cheese for its sharp flavor. However, you could swap it for other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of spice!

Buns: Brioche or pretzel buns make this a real treat. If you’re looking for an alternative, whole wheat buns or any sturdy roll can work just as well.

How Do You Get the Beef to Be So Tender?

The key to tender pulled beef lies in the slow cooking process. Cooking it low and slow breaks down the tough fibers in the meat, making it easy to shred.

• Start by searing the beef, which locks in juices and adds flavor.
• Use a slow cooker to keep the temperature steady and low—8 hours on low is ideal.
• Adding liquid, like beef broth, helps keep the meat moist during cooking.

These steps ensure your beef is super tender and full of flavor, making your sandwiches a hit!

How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwich

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pulled Beef:

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably your favorite brand)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sandwiches:

• 4 brioche or pretzel buns
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Pickles (optional, for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll need to cook it for either 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the slow cooker. So, plan on roughly 8 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy your delicious pulled beef sandwich!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast well with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the beef roast and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove the roast from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will create a wonderful aroma for your pulled beef!

3. Cook the Beef:

In a slow cooker, mix together the beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Place the seared beef roast into the slow cooker and then top it with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and shreddable.

4. Shred the Beef:

Once the beef is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred the meat. Then, mix the shredded beef back into the tasty sauce in the slow cooker. This makes sure every bite is packed with flavor!

5. Assemble the Sandwiches:

Take the brioche or pretzel buns and lightly toast them in a skillet or under the broiler until they are golden. On the bottom half of each bun, place a generous amount of the pulled beef. Top each with some shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Melt the Cheese:

This step is optional, but if you want to melt the cheese, place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to ensure they don’t burn—you just want that cheese to get all gooey and delicious!

7. Serve:

Top each sandwich with pickles if you like and place the top half of the bun on. Serve warm and enjoy your scrumptious pulled beef sandwiches with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Yum!

Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?

Yes! If you don’t have beef chuck roast, you can use brisket or even a pork shoulder for a different flavor. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, especially if the cut is leaner or tougher—adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure tenderness.

How to Store Leftover Pulled Beef?

Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep it moist.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pulled beef a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the slow cooker. Assembling the sandwiches just before serving helps to keep the buns from getting soggy.

What Are Some Good Toppings for Pulled Beef Sandwiches?

In addition to shredded cheddar cheese and pickles, you can try adding coleslaw, jalapeños, or even fried onions for some extra crunch and flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings to customize your sandwich!