Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef is a flavorful and tender dish that packs a punch with smoky chipotle peppers, savory spices, and slow-cooked beef. This dish is perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or served over rice. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a meal that’s rich in flavor and incredibly easy to prepare.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Chipotle Beef

• 3 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (use more or less depending on your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the chipotle peppers
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Season the beef chuck roast with salt and black pepper on all sides.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step is optional but adds extra flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

1. Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add the seared beef on top of the onions and garlic.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, apple cider vinegar, beef broth, and lime juice.
4. Pour the chipotle mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

1. Once the beef is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it with the cooking juices.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the chipotle beef hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. This dish is great in tacos, burrito bowls, or served over rice.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Chipotle Peppers: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder dish, use only one pepper.
• Searing the Beef: Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker helps develop deeper flavors, but it’s optional if you’re short on time.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover chipotle beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Variations

• Chipotle Chicken: Substitute the beef chuck roast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a chipotle chicken version.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the chipotle mixture for a hint of sweetness that balances out the spice.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers or diced tomatoes to the slow cooker for added color and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like beef brisket or even stew meat. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat becomes tender.

2. How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover chipotle beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?

To make this dish less spicy, use fewer chipotle peppers or remove the seeds before chopping them. You can also add more broth to dilute the spice level.

4. What Can I Serve with Chipotle Beef?

This dish is versatile and pairs well with rice, tortillas, black beans, or even a fresh salad. It also makes a great filling for tacos or burrito bowls.

Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef is a smoky, spicy, and tender dish that’s perfect for a variety of meals. Whether you use it in tacos, burrito bowls, or simply serve it over rice, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let your slow cooker do the work and enjoy a rich and flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Happy cooking!