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Chipotle Copycat Barbacoa: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 5

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Tender, smoky Chipotle Copycat Barbacoa made with beef chuck roast and authentic Mexican spices, perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, and more. Easy slow cooker or pressure cooker recipe for flavorful meals.

Ingredients

3 to 4 lbs beef chuck roast

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

2 to 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

1 cup beef broth

Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from beef chuck roast and cut into large chunks.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown beef chunks on all sides to enhance flavor.
  3. Transfer beef to slow cooker or pressure cooker. Add onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and chipotle peppers.
  4. Pour beef broth over beef, ensuring it is mostly submerged.
  5. Cook: Slow cooker on low for 6 hours or until beef is tender and shreddable; Pressure cooker on high pressure for 60-75 minutes, then allow natural pressure release.
  6. Remove beef and shred with two forks. Return shredded meat to the sauce to absorb flavors.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or lime juice as needed.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a tangier sauce.

Mix in fresh jalapeños for extra heat.

Serve with warm tortillas, rice, beans, or as a salad topping.

Chuck roast is preferred for tenderness but brisket or shoulder also work well.

Adjust chipotle peppers to control spiciness.

Simmer covered in a heavy pot for 3-4 hours if no slow cooker or pressure cooker.

Flavors deepen when refrigerated overnight.

Nutrition