recipe for barbacoa in a crockpot
The Best recipe for barbacoa in a crockpot
I also really appreciate how versatile this recipe is. You can make it ahead and reheat it easily, so it’s great for meal prep if you’re short on time. Plus, there’s something comforting about the spices—cumin, oregano, and a little chili powder—it’s like a warm blanket for your taste buds. And the health benefits? Well, slow-cooked meat stays juicy and retains more of its nutrients than if it were grilled or fried. It’s filling but not too heavy, and the veggies you can add on the side—like corn or beans—make it a balanced meal. My husband always says it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re eating a little bit of everything good in life, all in one bowl. Plus, it’s always a conversation starter, which is half the fun.
Slow Cooker Barbacoa (Crockpot)
A flavorful and tender Mexican-inspired stew made with slow-cooked beef in a rich, spiced barbacoa sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef chuck roast (or skirt steak)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce (from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if you plan to broil the meat afterward. Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. -
2
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil with the beef. Place the beef in a slow cooker and transfer it to the oven to brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove the beef from the oven and set aside. -
3
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, minced garlic, diced onion, chili powder, cumin, oregano, adobo sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and beef broth. Stir well to combine. -
4
Pour the barbacoa sauce mixture into the slow cooker. Add the browned beef back into the slow cooker, ensuring it is fully submerged in the sauce. -
5
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Remove the beef and shred it using two forks. -
6
Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any large chunks or seeds, if desired. Return the sauce to the slow cooker and mix well with the shredded beef. -
7
For serving, ladle the barbacoa into bowls and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add hot sauce if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker (Crockpot)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a few whole chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the slow cooker along with the sauce mixture.
- If using skirt steak, ensure it is sliced thinly for a quicker cooking time.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or adobo sauce.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the slow cooker on LOW for 1-2 hours or frozen for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Substitute beef with pork shoulder or chicken for a different twist.
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to the slow cooker for a heartier meal.
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Barbacoa (Crockpot) Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Barbacoa (Crockpot)
What is the best type of meat to use for crockpot barbacoa?
The best meat for crockpot barbacoa is traditionally beef brisket or skirt steak, as they hold up well to slow cooking and develop rich, tender flavors. For a more budget-friendly option, chuck roast or ground beef (for a shredded-style barbacoa) can also work well.
How do I prepare the barbacoa marinade or seasoning for the crockpot?
For a classic barbacoa marinade, mix 1 cup beef broth, ½ cup lime juice, ½ cup apple cider vinegar, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp chili powder. For a simpler seasoning, use 1 tbsp each of cumin, oregano, and garlic powder, plus 1 tsp salt and pepper, then coat the meat and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before adding to the crockpot.
How long should I cook barbacoa in the crockpot, and what temperature should I use?
For brisket or skirt steak, cook on Low setting for 6–8 hours or High setting for 3–4 hours. For chuck roast, use Low for 8–10 hours or High for 5–6 hours. For ground beef, cook on High for 2–3 hours until fully tender. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer (brisket should reach 195–205°F and skirt steak 160–170°F).
What are the best sides to serve with crockpot barbacoa?
Classic sides include warm tortillas (flour or corn), pickled onions, radishes, cilantro, lime wedges, and a simple cilantro-lime rice. For extra flavor, try Mexican street corn (elote), black beans, or a fresh avocado salad. Don’t forget salsa verde or roja for dipping!
Can I make crockpot barbacoa ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Yes! Barbacoa tastes even better the next day, so you can make it a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. To reheat, transfer it to the crockpot on Low for 1–2 hours or use the microwave (cover with a damp towel to retain moisture). For best texture, shred it fresh before serving.
