Mexican Shredded Beef Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow-cooked Mexican Shredded Beef is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for tacos, burritos, and more, it’s a simple yet delicious meal that elevates any Mexican dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon ancho chile powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 pounds beef shoulder roast
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups diced onion
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water

Directions

1. Mix the spice rub ingredients and apply to the beef.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the beef on all sides.
3. Transfer beef to the slow cooker. Add garlic, onion, orange juice, lime juice, tomatoes, and broth.
4. Pour enough water to cover ⅔ of the beef. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours.
5. Shred the beef with two forks. Turn slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 20 minutes to thicken the sauce. Serve beef with sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours
Total time: 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add spice: Add a chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
• Use a different cut: Try chuck roast for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. You can freeze the beef for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave or warm on the stovetop with a little broth.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, chuck roast or pork shoulder works well too.

2. Can I skip browning the meat?

Browning adds flavor, but it's not essential.

3. How long will this keep in the fridge?

Up to 4 days when stored properly.

4. Can I freeze this beef?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.

5. Can I use store-bought beef broth?

Yes, but using reduced-salt broth gives you more control over seasoning.

6. What if I don't have ancho chile powder?

You can substitute with regular chili powder, but the flavor may be slightly different.

7. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for about 2 hours.

8. Can I add vegetables to this?

Yes, try adding bell peppers or tomatoes for extra flavor.

9. Is this recipe spicy?

It's mildly spicy, but you can adjust the heat by using more or less chili powder.

10. Can I make this without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make it in the oven at 300°F for about 3 hours until tender.

Conclusion

This Mexican Shredded Beef is an easy and flavorful dish that is perfect for tacos, burritos, and more. It’s versatile, freezer-friendly, and can be customized to your taste. Whether you make it for a family dinner or a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit!

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