Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef Sliders

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These slow-cooker barbecue beef sliders are perfect for any occasion, offering a savory combination of tender beef, caramelized onions, and tangy barbecue sauce. The beef becomes so tender it falls apart, making it ideal for sliders. It's a great way to feed a crowd with minimal effort, and the recipe can be prepped ahead of time, making it a stress-free meal for busy days or game days.

Ingredients

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

• 4 boneless beef chuck roasts

• 18 ounces barbecue sauce

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup water

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 18 rolls such as Hawaiian Honey Wheat rolls

Directions

1. Cook the beef in a frying pan over medium-high heat until crispy, then drain on paper towels.

2. Leave 2 tablespoons of beef drippings in the frying pan and add the sliced onions and salt. Cook onions until tender. Add to the bottom of a 6qt slow cooker.

3. When the frying pan has cooled slightly, pour the water into the pan and gently scrape up the browned bits of beef and onion from the bottom. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker.

4. Add beef roasts and barbecue sauce. Stir well and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours.

5. Shred the beef with two forks and stir in the sauce before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 18 sliders

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 4 hours on high

Storage/Reheating

Leftover barbecue beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in a slow cooker, microwave, or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some hot sauce or chili flakes to the barbecue sauce to kick up the heat.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

While beef chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking, you can substitute with other cuts like brisket or round roast.

How do I ensure the beef is tender?

Slow-cooking the beef on low heat for an extended period helps break down the fibers, making it tender and easy to shred.

Can I make this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the beef in the oven at 300°F for about 3-4 hours, covered, until it's tender enough to shred.

Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?

Absolutely! Choose a barbecue sauce you enjoy for the best flavor.

How do I keep the beef moist when reheating?

Add a bit of water or extra barbecue sauce when reheating to keep it from drying out.

Can I use other types of rolls for the sliders?

Yes, feel free to use any type of soft slider buns, such as brioche or dinner rolls.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the beef can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you're ready to serve.

Can I add other toppings to the sliders?

Try adding cheese, pickles, or coleslaw for extra flavor and texture.

What sides go well with these sliders?

These sliders pair well with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.

Conclusion

These slow-cooker barbecue beef sliders are an easy and delicious choice for feeding a crowd. With tender beef, flavorful barbecue sauce, and the option to customize with your favorite toppings, these sliders are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you're serving them for dinner or at a party, they'll disappear in no time!