These pulled beef sandwiches are bursting with flavor! The beef is slow-cooked until it’s super tender and then piled high on a soft bun. Perfect for a cozy meal!
I love adding some tangy barbecue sauce to mine for an extra kick! And let’s be real, who can say no to a deliciously messy sandwich? It’s all part of the fun! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut gives you tender, flavorful pulled beef. If chuck roast is hard to find, you can use brisket or shoulder. Just remember, tougher cuts need slow cooking to become tender.
Olive Oil: A staple for cooking, but you can substitute it with canola or vegetable oil if preferred. They also have a high smoke point, ideal for searing meat.
Barbecue Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite style—smoky, tangy, or spicy. Store-bought works great, but homemade sauce can add a personal touch! If you’re low on BBQ sauce, ketchup mixed with a splash of vinegar and spices can work in a pinch.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic, but you can swap in pepper jack for a kick, or mozzarella for a milder taste. Vegan cheese can also be used for dairy-free options!
Brioche Buns: These are soft and slightly sweet, but you could use hamburger or whole grain buns. Look for sturdy buns that can handle all that juicy beef!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Pulled Beef?
Cooking the beef right is key to getting that tender texture. First, seasoning is crucial; it enhances flavor. Next, sear the beef well to lock in juices and add depth to the taste. Cooking low and slow is where the magic happens.
- Start by searing the beef in hot oil for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds a wonderful flavor.
- After adding liquids to the skillet, cover and reduce the heat. Slow cooking for 3-4 hours on low (or 6-8 hours in a slow cooker) breaks down the meat fibers and makes it shred easily.
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles and coleslaw (optional for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 3-4 hours of cooking time on the stove, or 6-8 hours in a slow cooker. So, you can start this dish in the morning and enjoy delicious pulled beef sandwiches for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Beef:
Take the beef chuck roast and season all sides generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. This will give your beef lots of flavor!
2. Sear the Beef:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully add the seasoned beef and let it sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until it’s browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside for now.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add in the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and smell fragrant. This adds a lovely base flavor!
4. Add Liquids:
Return the seared beef to the skillet. Then pour in the beef broth, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together to combine nicely!
5. Cook the Beef:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. If you prefer, you can also transfer everything to a slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours.
6. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, take it out of the sauce and shred it using two forks. Mix the shredded beef back into the sauce, making sure it’s well coated and delicious.
7. Prepare the Buns:
While the beef rests, toast the brioche buns in a skillet or oven until they are golden brown. This gives them a nice crunch and keeps them from getting soggy.
8. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Now it’s time to build your sandwiches! Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and add a generous portion of the pulled beef. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, then cover with the top half of the bun.
9. Serve:
Your pulled beef sandwiches are ready to enjoy! If you like, serve them with pickles and coleslaw on the side for a complete meal. Dig in and enjoy the tasty flavors!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and flavor, you can substitute it with brisket or shoulder if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different cuts have varying tenderness and fat content.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Instant Pot?
Yes! To make pulled beef sandwiches in an Instant Pot, simply follow the same preparation steps. After searing the beef and sautéing the onions, add the liquids and close the lid. Cook on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes, then allow for a natural release. Shred the beef as directed and serve!
How to Store Leftover Pulled Beef?
Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the shredded beef with the sauce. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can use a mix of ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and a bit of honey to create your own quick version. Alternatively, a combination of tomato sauce with spices like chili powder and a dash of hot sauce can also work well.
