This pulled beef sandwich is a tasty treat that’s all about juicy, tender beef cooked low and slow. Packed with flavor and served on soft bread, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Honestly, who can resist a sandwich that falls apart in the best way? I love piling on the toppings, and it’s perfect for game day or a cozy dinner. You won’t believe how easy it is to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking due to its rich flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find it, brisket or round roast will work. Just remember they may need different cooking times to become tender.
Barbecue Sauce: You can use any barbecue sauce you love! For a healthier option, try a sugar-free or homemade version. A zesty sauce can add a nice kick, while a sweeter one will enhance the meat’s flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is my favorite for these sandwiches! If you want a different taste, try pepper jack for spice or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. You could also skip the cheese for a dairy-free option.
Onion and Garlic: They build a fantastic flavor base. If you have a sensitivity to onions, leeks or shallots can be a good alternative. And if garlic isn’t your thing, try using garlic powder for a milder touch.
How Do You Get Tender, Shredded Beef?
Tender beef is key for delicious pulled sandwiches! The slow cook method in the oven helps break down the tough fibers. Here’s how to get it right:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) for a low and slow cook.
- Season your beef to enhance flavor. Don’t skip the salt and pepper!
- Sear the roast well on all sides in a hot pot. This adds depth to your dish.
- Add onions and garlic after searing, cooking them until soft to develop base flavors.
- Cover and cook in the oven for 3-4 hours until you can shred the meat with ease.
This method really ensures your beef becomes flavorful and tender, perfect for sandwiches!
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Beef:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Sandwich:
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional garnishes: pickles, coleslaw
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pulled beef sandwich takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks in the oven for 3-4 hours. So, you’ll need about 4 hours total, but most of that is just letting the beef cook in the oven. It’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Season:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While that’s warming up, take your beef chuck roast and season it generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin on all sides. Get it nice and flavorful!
2. Sear the Beef:
In a large Dutch oven or an oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef roast and sear it until it’s browned on all sides. This will lock in those delicious flavors. After it’s browned, remove the roast from the pot and set it aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring until they soften and become fragrant. This adds a lovely base flavor to your dish!
4. Combine and Simmer:
Now it’s time to return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Roast in the Oven:
Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let it cook for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender and shred easily with a fork when it’s done. Just relax during this time; your kitchen will smell fantastic!
6. Shred the Beef:
When the beef is done, take the pot out of the oven (be careful, it’s hot!). Using two forks, shred the beef right in the pot and mix it well with those delicious cooking juices. It’s going to be so tasty!
7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Now it’s time to put your sandwiches together! Place a generous amount of pulled beef on the bottom half of each bun. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, making sure to cover that beef with melty goodness!
8. Optional Broil for Cheese:
If you want that cheese nice and gooey, you can pop the assembled sandwiches under a broiler for 1-2 minutes. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
9. Add Garnishes and Serve:
Finally, add any garnishes you love, like pickles or coleslaw, on top of the cheese. Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich, and they’re ready to enjoy! Serve warm and dig in!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! If you can’t find beef chuck roast, other cuts like brisket or round roast can work as well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; make sure the meat is tender enough for shredding before removing from the oven.
Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! To make pulled beef sandwiches in a slow cooker, sear the meat as instructed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender. Shred and serve as usual.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pulled beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating and enjoy it on fresh buns!
What Should I Serve on the Side?
These sandwiches pair wonderfully with simple sides like potato chips, baked beans, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve homemade fries for a classic combo!
