Slow-Cooked Shredded Beef Tacos

Ultimate Shredded Beef Tacos Recipe: Juicy, Flavorful & Versatile for Any Occasion

Experience the unparalleled flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of these incredible Shredded Beef Tacos. Each bite is packed with rich, savory beef, slow-cooked to perfection in a thick, aromatic sauce that will have your taste buds singing. While they make for unforgettable tacos, this versatile shredded beef is equally fantastic in burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and more! Whether you prefer the speed of an Instant Pot, the convenience of a slow cooker, or the traditional simmer of the stovetop, this recipe offers flexible cooking methods to fit your schedule. Prepare to discover your new go-to weekly favorite, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.

overhead image of shredded beef tacos and toppings

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About These Flavorful Shredded Beef Tacos

There’s a reason why shredded beef tacos consistently outshine their ground meat counterparts. Imagine tender, succulent beef, infused with a complex blend of spices and savory juices, falling apart with the slightest touch. That’s exactly what you get with this recipe, delivering a depth of flavor and irresistible texture that simply can’t be matched by typical crumbled ground meat with store-bought seasoning. Our shredded beef is not only incredibly juicy and flavorful but also remarkably versatile, making it the perfect filling for a variety of Mexican-inspired dishes.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability to your lifestyle. Whether you’re pressed for time or prefer a hands-off approach, we’ve got you covered:

  • Instant Pot: For those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast, the Instant Pot is your best friend. It locks in moisture and flavor while drastically reducing cooking time.
  • Slow Cooker: Planning ahead? Let your slow cooker do all the work while you’re out. Come home to a house filled with an intoxicating aroma and perfectly tender beef ready for dinner.
  • Stovetop: If you enjoy the traditional method of slow simmering, a Dutch oven on the stovetop will yield wonderfully rich and tender results, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over a couple of hours.

This shredded beef recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen, especially if you’re a taco enthusiast. It’s an effortless way to create an outstanding meal that’s both satisfying and packed with authentic flavors. Set out a vibrant array of your favorite toppings, and you’ll instantly transform your dinner into an exciting taco bar party – perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends!

shredded beef tacos ingredients with text

Key Ingredients for the Best Shredded Beef Tacos

Crafting truly exceptional shredded beef tacos begins with a thoughtful selection of quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the robust, layered flavors that make this dish so irresistible.

  • Aromatic Spices: The heart of our flavorful rub includes a dynamic blend of chipotle powder for smoky heat, smoked paprika for depth and color, fragrant dried oregano, essential garlic powder and onion powder, earthy coriander, a touch of salt and black pepper, classic chili powder, warm ground allspice, and pungent ground cumin. This combination ensures every strand of beef is packed with vibrant, complex flavor.
  • Quality Oil: A good quality olive oil or versatile canola oil is used for searing the beef, creating a delicious crust and building the foundational flavors for the sauce.
  • Hearty Beef: For maximum tenderness and flavor, we highly recommend boneless beef chuck roast. Its rich marbling breaks down beautifully during slow cooking, resulting in incredibly juicy, shreddable meat. Alternatively, rump roast or beef brisket also work wonderfully, offering similar succulence.
  • Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic is indispensable for its pungent aroma and savory notes. To save on prep time without sacrificing flavor, consider using pre-minced garlic from a jar.
  • Sweet Onion: A medium yellow or white onion, finely diced, provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic base when sautéed, complementing the rich beef.
  • Citrus Juices: Freshly squeezed orange and lime juices are crucial. The acidity not only brightens the overall flavor profile but also helps to tenderize the beef, resulting in a more succulent texture. While fresh is always best, store-bought 100% juices can be used in a pinch.
  • Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes form the backbone of the savory sauce, adding a rich, slightly tangy foundation that marries all the other flavors.
  • Rich Stock: Beef stock is preferred for its deep, beefy flavor that enhances the overall richness of the dish. However, vegetable stock or beef broth can also be used as suitable alternatives.
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Essential Equipment for This Recipe

To effortlessly prepare these delicious shredded beef tacos, you’ll need a few key pieces of kitchen equipment:

  • Preparation Tools: A sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are essential for prepping your beef and aromatics. Don’t forget your measuring cups and spoons for accurate spice and liquid amounts, and a set of mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
  • Cooking Vessels: The versatility of this recipe means you can choose your preferred cooking appliance:
    • For pressure cooking: An Instant Pot (like the Duo or Ultra) or an Instant Pot Max.
    • For slow simmering: A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or a large, sturdy pot.
    • For hands-off cooking: Your trusty slow cooker.
  • Shredding Tools: Once cooked, the beef will be so tender you’ll only need two forks to easily shred it into perfect pieces! For an even quicker method, an electric hand mixer can also be used.

How to Make Tender Shredded Beef Tacos

Making these incredibly juicy and flavorful shredded beef tacos is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps, adapting to your chosen cooking method for the ultimate culinary experience.

Prepare the Aromatic Spice Rub

Begin by combining all the dry spice rub ingredients in a small bowl. Stir them thoroughly until they are well-mixed, creating a fragrant and potent seasoning blend. Take your beef chunks and generously coat them with about 4 to 5 teaspoons of this spice mix, ensuring an even layer on all sides. This initial seasoning is crucial for building a deep, rich flavor foundation for your beef.

Choose Your Ideal Cooking Method

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. While the cooking times vary, the foundational steps for developing flavor remain consistent. You’ll start by searing the beef to lock in juices and create a flavorful crust, then sautéing aromatics before allowing the magic of slow cooking to transform the meat.

Regardless of your chosen method, the first essential steps are:

  1. Sear the Meat: Heat olive oil in your chosen cooking vessel (Instant Pot on Sauté, Dutch oven, or large skillet) over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef chunks and sear them on all sides until beautifully browned, about 2 minutes per side. This crucial step, known as the Maillard reaction, develops deep, complex flavors. Remove the seared beef and set it aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium (if necessary) and add the minced garlic and diced onion to the same pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, typically 3 to 4 minutes. This mellows their flavors and releases their aromatic compounds into the cooking liquid.
  3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the orange juice and lime juice. Use a wooden spoon to vigorously scrape up any browned bits (fond) stuck to the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor and will contribute significantly to the richness of your sauce.

Now, proceed with your preferred cooking method:

  • Instant Pot: After deglazing, stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, water, and the remaining spice mixture. Return the seared beef to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and pressure cook on High for 50 minutes. Once cooking is complete, perform a manual (quick) pressure release.
  • Stovetop: After deglazing, stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, water, and the remaining spice mixture. Return the seared beef to the Dutch oven. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer slowly for 2 hours. After this time, remove the lid and continue to cook for another 30 minutes, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily falls apart.
  • Slow Cooker: After the searing and sautéing steps (which can be done in a separate skillet or directly in a multi-cooker with a sauté function), transfer the beef, sautéed aromatics, deglazing liquid, crushed tomatoes, beef stock, water, and the remaining spice mixture to your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 4 to 6 hours, until the beef is supremely tender and shreds effortlessly.

Effortlessly Shred the Cooked Beef

Once the beef is perfectly tender from whichever cooking method you chose, carefully remove it from the liquid and transfer it to a large bowl or cutting board. Using two forks, pull the meat apart until it’s fully shredded. The beef should be so tender that it practically falls apart on its own.

Thicken the Rich Braising Sauce

While you’re shredding the beef, return the flavorful cooking liquid to a boil in the pot (or set your Instant Pot to Sauté). Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickened consistency. This concentrates the flavors and creates a luscious sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Finally, return the shredded beef to the thickened sauce, stirring gently to ensure every piece is beautifully coated. Serve this exquisite shredded beef in warm or charred tortillas, with extra sauce on the side for dipping, if desired, and your favorite toppings.

bowl of slow cooked Mexican meat with toppings

Tips and Delicious Variations

Elevate your shredded beef taco experience with these helpful tips and creative variations:

  • Master the Spice Level: The heat in this recipe comes primarily from the chipotle powder and chili powder. For a milder flavor, use 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of chipotle powder. If you prefer a medium kick (our favorite!), aim for 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons. For those who love intense heat, increase it to 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons. Always taste and adjust to your preference!
  • Choose the Right Beef Cut: While beef chuck roast is our top recommendation for its ideal marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked, beef brisket or rump roast are excellent alternatives. These cuts contain connective tissue that breaks down beautifully over time, resulting in that desirable fall-apart texture.
  • Repurpose for Endless Meals: This shredded beef is incredibly versatile! Beyond tacos, use it to create:
    • Hearty Nachos: Layer over tortilla chips with cheese and your favorite toppings.
    • Satisfying Burritos: Wrap with rice, beans, and salsa in a large tortilla.
    • Flavorful Enchiladas: Roll into corn tortillas with cheese and smother in enchilada sauce.
    • Quick Quesadillas: Sandwich between tortillas with cheese and grill until golden.
    • Robust Salads or Bowls: Add to a bed of greens or rice with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing.
    • Sliders or Empanadas: A delicious filling for small buns or pastry pockets.
  • Meal Prep Perfection: This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. Make a large batch of the shredded beef on the weekend, and you’ll have flavorful protein ready for quick meals throughout the week.

More savory beef recipes to explore: Rigatoni al Forno | French Dip Sandwiches | Instant Pot Pot Roast | Instant Pot Short Rib Ragu

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Frequently Asked Questions About Shredded Beef Tacos

Is this Shredded Beef Taco Meat Spicy?

Yes, this shredded beef does carry a delightful amount of heat, primarily from the chipotle powder and chili powder in the spice rub. However, the spice level is fully customizable to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can easily reduce the amount of chipotle powder. For a gentle warmth, use 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of chipotle powder. To achieve a medium heat that provides a satisfying kick without overwhelming the palate (which is our personal favorite), opt for 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons. If you crave a robust, high heat experience, feel free to use 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of chipotle powder. This flexibility ensures everyone can enjoy these tacos to their liking.

What are the Best Toppings for Shredded Beef Tacos?

The beauty of tacos lies in their versatility, allowing you to customize them with an array of fresh, vibrant toppings. For these flavorful shredded beef tacos, we love pairing them with classic Mexican accompaniments. Our top recommendations include creamy sliced avocado, salty cojita cheese, and aromatic freshly chopped cilantro, which add a refreshing contrast to the rich beef. Other fantastic additions that truly elevate the experience are:

  • Crisp diced red or white onion for a sharp bite.
  • Sweet and smoky charred corn kernels.
  • A dollop of your favorite salsa, such as a hearty chunky salsa, a vibrant black bean corn salsa, or a spicy chile de arbol salsa.
  • Cool and tangy sour cream or Mexican crema.
  • For an unexpected crunch, a sprinkle of crispy fried onions.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match to discover your perfect combination!

What Cut of Beef is Ideal for This Shredded Beef Recipe?

For achieving the ultimate tender, fall-apart shredded beef, we highly recommend using a boneless beef chuck roast. This cut is rich in collagen and intramuscular fat, which slowly renders during cooking, resulting in incredibly moist and flavorful meat that shreds effortlessly. It’s also typically more budget-friendly and widely available. Other excellent alternatives that will yield similar succulent results include rump roast or beef brisket. These cuts also benefit from long, slow cooking methods, transforming tough fibers into tender, juicy strands perfect for tacos.

Can I Prepare These Shredded Beef Tacos in Advance?

Absolutely! This shredded beef recipe is a fantastic candidate for meal preparation, making weeknight dinners a breeze. The tender shredded beef can be cooked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it incredibly convenient to pull out for quick tacos, burritos, salads, or grain bowls throughout the week. Reheating is simple, whether you prefer to warm it gently in a skillet on the stovetop or quickly in the microwave until heated through. Having this flavorful beef ready to go significantly cuts down on active cooking time, allowing you more flexibility for busy days.

image of tortillas with meat inside and savory toppings

How Do You Shred Beef for Tacos?

Once your beef has cooked to perfection using any of the methods outlined in the recipe, it should be incredibly tender – practically falling apart. The easiest and most common way to shred it is simply with two forks. Place the cooked beef in a large bowl or on a sturdy cutting board, and then use the tines of two forks to pull the meat in opposite directions. It will separate into beautiful, juicy strands with minimal effort. For an even quicker method, especially if you’re making a large batch, you can place the cooked beef (drained of most liquid) into a large bowl and use an electric hand mixer on low speed. The beaters will shred the beef in a matter of seconds!

How to Achieve Charred Tortillas for Your Tacos?

A slightly charred tortilla adds an authentic touch and wonderful flavor to your tacos. If you have a gas stove, it’s incredibly easy: simply turn a burner to medium-low heat and place a tortilla directly on the grate. Heat for about 15-30 seconds per side, until it’s softened and develops slight char marks to your liking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning! You can also use a kitchen torch for a similar effect, though it can be a bit more uneven. If you don’t have a gas stove, you can achieve a good warmed tortilla by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or by heating them briefly in a dry skillet over medium-high heat until soft and pliable.

Can I Use Frozen Beef in This Recipe?

Using frozen beef is possible, but it depends on the cooking method and how the beef is cut. If your beef is already cut into large chunks and frozen, you can use it directly in the Instant Pot instructions. You might need to skip the initial searing step (as it’s harder to sear frozen meat) and note that the Instant Pot may take a bit longer to come to pressure. However, for the stovetop and slow cooker methods, it’s generally best to thaw the beef completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and optimal results. A large, whole frozen roast should always be thawed completely before attempting any cooking method to ensure food safety and tenderness.

Need some inspiration for dinners this week? Check out my dinner recipes page!

bowl of mexican shredded beef with fresh toppings

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Shredded Beef Tacos

The deliciousness of these shredded beef tacos truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. Start by choosing your preferred vessel: soft flour tortillas or traditional corn tortillas, both work wonderfully. Then, let your creativity flow with an abundance of vibrant toppings and refreshing sides!

Taco Toppings Extravaganza:

Beyond our favorites (sliced avocado, cojita cheese, and fresh cilantro), consider these additions:

  • Salsas Galore: Offer a variety, from chunky classics like chunky salsa and zesty pico de gallo, to fruit-infused options like pineapple mango salsa, or unique blends such as roasted chili corn salsa and spicy chile de arbol salsa.
  • Creamy Delights: A generous dollop of guacamole, sour cream, or Mexican crema adds a cooling contrast to the savory beef.
  • Added Crunch: Diced white onion or crispy fried onions.

Hearty Side Dishes:

Round out your meal with these satisfying sides:

  • Fluffy cilantro lime rice.
  • Savory refried beans.
  • A simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette.
  • Mexican street corn (Elote).

Refreshing Beverages:

No taco night is complete without the perfect drink! Margaritas are a natural choice, and we have several fantastic recipes to try:

  • Classic favorites like limeade margaritas, a sophisticated lemon agave margarita, or the bold Texas margarita.
  • Unique options such as a refreshing cucumber margarita.
  • Fruity delights like a sweet blueberry margarita or a vibrant raspberry margarita.
  • For a tropical escape, indulge in a creamy coconut margarita.

This savory, juicy beef is truly a star at any taco bar party! Arrange warmed tortillas, various salsas, sour cream, fresh lime wedges, chopped cilantro, and more for an interactive and delicious dining experience. The versatility extends beyond tacos; explore using this meat in nachos, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, sliders, empanadas, and countless other creative dishes. The possibilities are truly endless!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper storage ensures your delicious shredded beef remains fresh and flavorful for future meals.

  • Storing in the Refrigerator: Allow the Mexican shredded beef to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored correctly, the beef will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Any extra cooking juices can also be stored in a separate airtight container for the same duration, perfect for re-moistening the meat upon reheating.
  • Reheating for Optimal Flavor:
    • Stovetop: For best results, reheat the shredded beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of the reserved cooking liquid or beef stock to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
    • Microwave: For a quick reheat, place the beef in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of liquid, cover, and microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
    • Sauce: Reheat any excess liquid in a small saucepan over medium heat until simmering.
  • Freezing for Long-Term Storage: This beef freezes beautifully! Once the meat has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. The excess cooking liquid can also be frozen separately in an airtight container, ensuring you have plenty of flavorful sauce when ready to serve.
  • Thawing Frozen Beef: To thaw, simply transfer the frozen meat and any accompanying liquid to the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat according to the instructions above.
image of meat tortillas and toppings

Discover More Addictive Taco Recipes

If you’re a true taco lover, you’ll want to add these irresistible recipes to your repertoire:

  • Effortless Instant Pot Chipotle Chicken Tacos: These Instant Pot Chipotle Chicken Tacos are a testament to speed and flavor. Simple to prepare, the zesty chicken is perfect not just for tacos, but also for nachos, salads, and more versatile meal options.
  • Crispy Fried Avocado Tacos: For a delightful vegetarian option, these Fried Avocado Tacos offer a unique combination of crispy texture and creamy richness that you’ll absolutely adore.
  • Homemade Chicken Taco Seasoning: Elevate your chicken tacos by making your own chicken taco seasoning at home. Skip the store-bought packets and enjoy a fresher, more robust flavor profile that will transform your meals.
  • Spicy Taco Dip for Appetizers: Planning a gathering? This flavorful spicy taco dip is the perfect appetizer to kick off any party and keep your guests coming back for more.

Finally, if you’ve enjoyed making this shredded beef tacos recipe, please consider leaving a star rating on the recipe card below and/or sharing your thoughts in a comment! Your feedback truly means the world to me, and I personally read and respond to every single comment. Feel free to ask any questions you might have about the recipe too!

Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest when you share your creations. Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is my favorite part of what I do!

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Shredded Beef Tacos

The most savory and rich beef tacos ever!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8

5 from 46 votes
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Equipment

  • Instant Pot DUO
  • Instant Pot Max
  • Dutch Oven
  • Shun Chef’s Knife
  • Organic Bamboo Cutting Board

Ingredients

Spice Rub

  • 1 to 1 1/2 Tbsp chipotle powder adjust spiciness to taste*
  • 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
Beef

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 lb beef chuck or brisket cut into large chunks (about 4 to 5 pieces)
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef stock
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (Optional)

  • sliced avocado
  • cojita cheese
  • freshly chopped cilantro
  • sour cream or Mexican crema
  • diced white or red onion
  • salsa (chunky, pineapple mango, or black bean corn)

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, stir together ingredients for the spice rub until combined.
  • Sprinkle the meat chunks with about 4 to 5 tsp of the spice rub, patting it into the meat so it sticks. Reserve the remaining spice rub for later use in the sauce.
  • Proceed with your preferred cooking method as detailed below.

Instant Pot Method

  • Add olive oil to the Instant Pot insert and set the Instant Pot to Sauté (Normal). Once hot, add the seasoned beef chunks and sear on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the seared beef and set it aside.
  • Add minced garlic and diced onion to the Instant Pot. Cook until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Pour in orange juice and lime juice to deglaze the bottom of the insert. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits that may be stuck to the bottom.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, water, and the remaining spice mixture. Return the seared beef to the pot, nestling it into the liquid.
  • Secure the lid, ensure the venting knob is sealed, and pressure cook for 50 minutes on High pressure. Once cooking is done, perform a manual (quick) pressure release.
  • Carefully remove the tender beef from the Instant Pot and transfer it to a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the meat until it’s in fine strands.
  • While shredding the meat, set the Instant Pot back to Sauté (Normal). Bring the liquid to a boil and reduce for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a desired sauce consistency. Taste the sauce and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  • Return the shredded beef to the thickened sauce, stirring to ensure all the meat is coated. Serve as desired in warmed or charred tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Stovetop Method

  • Add olive oil to a large, heavy-bottomed pot (such as a Dutch oven) over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned beef chunks and sear on all sides until beautifully browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the seared beef and set it aside. Reduce the heat to medium.
  • Add minced garlic and diced onion to the pot. Cook until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Pour in orange juice and lime juice to deglaze the bottom of the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits, incorporating them into the liquid.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, water, and the remaining spice mixture. Return the seared beef to the pot.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer gently for 2 hours. After 2 hours, remove the lid and continue to cook for another 30 minutes, or until the beef is fork-tender and falling apart easily.
  • Carefully remove the cooked beef from the pot and transfer it to a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the meat until it’s in fine, tender strands.
  • While shredding the meat, increase the heat to medium-high for the liquid remaining in the pot. Bring to a boil and reduce for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Taste the sauce and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  • Return the shredded beef to the thickened sauce, stirring to ensure all the meat is beautifully coated. Serve as desired in warmed or charred tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Slow Cooker Method

  • Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat (or use the sauté function of your slow cooker if available). Once hot, add the seasoned beef chunks and sear on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the seared beef and set it aside. Reduce the heat to medium.
  • Add minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet. Cook until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Pour in orange juice and lime juice to deglaze the bottom of the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pan.
  • Transfer the seared beef, sautéed garlic and onion, deglazing liquid, crushed tomatoes, beef stock, water, and the remaining spice mixture to your slow cooker insert.
  • Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 6 hours, until the beef is incredibly tender and shreds easily. Remove the meat and shred it with two forks.
  • Carefully transfer the liquid from the slow cooker to a separate pot on the stove. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and reduce for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  • Taste the sauce and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
  • Return the shredded beef to the thickened sauce, stirring to ensure all the meat is coated. Serve as desired in warmed or charred tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Video

Notes

Nutrition

Calories: 375kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 117mg | Sodium: 643mg | Potassium: 962mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1089IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 81mg | Iron: 5mg
Calories: 375kcal
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex Mex, Cinco De Mayo
Category: Main Course, Main Dish, Instant Pot, Meat