Slow cooker pulled beef

Slow cooker pulled beef features tender, juicy beef cooked with onions, garlic, and herbs in a rich broth. Ideal for meals like sandwiches or tacos, it's a hassle-free dish that requires minimal hands-on time.

25 Jan 2026
Cook time 480 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

2 lb beef
1 cup beef broth
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 bay leaf
1 tbsp fresh thyme

Slow cooker pulled beef is the perfect recipe for those who love tender, flavorful, and juicy meat with minimal effort. By using a slow cooker, you allow the beef to cook slowly and absorb all the wonderful flavors of the broth, onions, garlic, and herbs. This dish is ideal for a hearty family dinner or for meal prep, as it can be used in a variety of dishes such as sandwiches, tacos, or salads.

Instructions:

1. Prep Your Ingredients:
- Beef: If not already done, trim off excess fat from the beef. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Onion: Peel and finely chop the onion.
- Garlic: Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- Thyme: Roughly chop the fresh thyme.

2. Searing the Beef (Optional but Recommended):
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a bit of oil.
- Sear the beef on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you're short on time.

3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
- Place the seared or raw beef into the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bay leaf.
- Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the beef is partially submerged.
- Sprinkle the fresh thyme over the top.

4. Cooking:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Set it to low and cook for 8-10 hours or set to high and cook for 4-6 hours. The cooking time will vary slightly based on your slow cooker and the cut of beef used.
- The beef is done when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

5. Shredding the Beef:
- Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board.
- Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir to combine it with the juices and onions.

6. Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the pulled beef on burger buns, in tortillas, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides. You can also use it to make sandwiches, tacos, or even as a pizza topping.

7. Storage:
- If you have leftovers, let the pulled beef cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of extra broth if needed to keep the beef moist.

Once you've allowed your slow cooker to work its magic, you'll be rewarded with incredibly tender and flavorful pulled beef that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. This recipe demonstrates how a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience can yield a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it immediately or storing it for later, slow cooker pulled beef is a versatile and convenient choice for any home cook.

Slow cooker pulled beef FAQ:

What cooking time should I use for slow cooker pulled beef?

You can set your slow cooker to low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The beef is done when it is tender and can be easily pulled apart with a fork.

How do I know when the pulled beef is done?

The pulled beef is ready when it is tender and shreds easily with a fork. If it feels tough, it likely needs more cooking time.

What can I use as a substitute for fresh thyme?

You can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme using a ratio of 1:3 (1 tablespoon fresh thyme = 1 teaspoon dried thyme). Alternatively, oregano or rosemary can also work well.

How should I store leftovers of pulled beef?

Allow the pulled beef to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various cuts of beef such as chuck roast, brisket, or round. Cooking time may vary depending on the cut, so ensure the beef is tender before shredding.

Tips:

- Choose the right cut of beef: Opt for cuts like chuck roast, brisket, or shoulder as they become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.

- Brown the meat: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the beef in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker.

- Layer the ingredients: Place the onions and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker to promote even cooking and flavor distribution.

- Don't lift the lid: Avoid opening the slow cooker during cooking as it lets out heat and extends cooking time. Only check it towards the end.

- Shred the beef properly: Use two forks to pull the beef apart once it's cooked. You can do this directly in the slow cooker for convenience.

- Adjust seasoning: After shredding, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of your favorite barbecue sauce.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 350kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 1.95g
Fiber 0.66g
Sugar 1.17g
Fat 22g

Slow cooker pulled beef