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A close-up of a hand lifting an authentic street-style shredded beef taco topped with onion and cilantro from a plate.

Slow Cooker Beef Tacos


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  • Author: Jessica

Description

Ever dreamed of taco night with melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s packed with flavor and requires almost no effort? Slow Cooker Beef Tacos are here to make that dream a reality! This recipe transforms a humble beef chuck roast into tender, juicy taco filling with the bold flavors of taco seasoning and zesty tomatoes with green chilies, all thanks to your slow cooker

Ingredients

  • Beef Chuck Roast (2 lbs):
    • Why it’s important: Chuck roast is flavorful and becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked, perfect for shredding into tacos.
    • Substitutions: Brisket or rump roast work well. For a leaner option, try sirloin, but it may be less juicy.
  • Taco Seasoning (1 packet or homemade blend):
    • Why it’s important: Infuses the beef with smoky, spicy, and savory flavors.
    • Substitutions: Homemade blend (1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp oregano, ½ tsp red pepper flakes).
  • Beef Broth (1 cup):
    • Why it’s important: Keeps the beef moist and enhances its savory flavor.
    • Substitutions: Chicken or vegetable broth, or water with a bouillon cube.
  • Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (1 can, 10 oz):
    • Why it’s important: Adds tangy, slightly spicy depth to the sauce.
    • Substitutions: Plain diced tomatoes with a diced jalapeño or a can of mild salsa.
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste):
    • Why it’s important: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef and seasoning.
  • Taco Shells or Tortillas (for serving):
    • Why it’s important: The vessel for your taco, offering crunch (hard shells) or soft flexibility (tortillas).
    • Substitutions: Lettuce wraps for low-carb, or use as a topping for nachos or bowls.
  • Toppings (shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, avocado):
    • Why it’s important: Adds freshness, creaminess, and crunch to balance the rich beef.
    • Substitutions: Swap for cilantro, pickled onions, jalapeños, guacamole, or salsa for variety

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Beef

  • Trim any excess fat from the 2 lbs beef chuck roast, but leave some for flavor.
  • Place the roast in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • Sprinkle 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend) evenly over the beef, along with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Tip: Pat the beef dry with paper towels for better seasoning adhesion.

Step 2: Add Liquids

  • Pour 1 cup beef broth and 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies over the beef, ensuring it’s partially submerged.
  • Tip: No need to stir—the ingredients will meld during cooking.

Step 3: Cook

  • Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
  • Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking.
  • Tip: If possible, flip the roast halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

  • Transfer the beef to a large plate or cutting board and shred with two forks, removing any fatty pieces.
  • Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir to coat in the juices and sauce.
  • Tip: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it in a saucepan for 5–7 minutes to reduce, or mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir into the slow cooker on high for 10 minutes to thicken.

Step 5: Serve

  • Spoon the shredded beef into taco shells or tortillas.
  • Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, avocado, or your favorite toppings.
  • Tip: Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave for a softer, more pliable texture.

 

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