These Honey Chipotle Shredded Beef Tacos are a tasty treat! They feature tender beef that’s cooked low and slow, coated in a sweet and spicy sauce perfect for taco night.
It’s impossible to resist the beautiful mix of flavors. Once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! 🌮 I love piling on the toppings—lettuce, cheese, and a bit of salsa make them perfect!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking because it becomes very tender. If chuck roast isn’t available, you can use brisket or round roast as substitutes. These will also give you great flavor when cooked low and slow.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and balances the heat from the chipotle peppers. If you’re avoiding sugar, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar instead. These options will also keep the dish sweet and delicious.
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: They are smoky and spicy, giving the dish its unique flavor. If you need a milder option, you can use a dash of smoked paprika with diced jalapeños. You’ll still get a lovely smoke flavor!
Onion and Garlic: Both add depth to the dish. Yellow onions work best for their sweetness. If you’re looking for a milder taste, try using shallots or even leeks in their place.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional and delicious. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for corn tortillas or use lettuce wraps for a fresh take.
How Do I Make Sure the Beef Is Tender and Shreddable?
Getting the beef perfectly tender is crucial for great tacos. Here’s how to make sure it turns out just right:
- Always cook on low heat in the slow cooker. This allows the meat to break down slowly and evenly.
- Don’t skip the step of letting the beef soak in its juices after shredding. This keeps it moist and flavorful.
- Make sure to check the doneness of the beef around the 8-hour mark. It should be fall-apart tender; if it isn’t quite there, give it another hour or so.
- Use two forks for shredding. It’s the easiest way to break up the meat without making a mess!
How to Make Honey Chipotle Shredded Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup beef broth
For Assembly:
- Corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let it cook in the slow cooker for 8 hours. So, total, you’ll need around 8 hours and 15 minutes. It’s perfect for a busy day since you can set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by placing the quartered onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for your beef.
2. Season the Beef:
Next, take your beef chuck roast and season it generously with salt, black pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika. Make sure to rub the seasonings all over the meat for the best flavor. Then, lay the seasoned roast on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the honey, chopped chipotle peppers, and beef broth. This sweet and spicy mixture is what makes your beef so delicious! Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
4. Cook the Beef:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. The long, slow cooking will make the beef super tender and easy to shred. You’ll smell the amazing aroma filling your kitchen!
5. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is done cooking, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it well to soak up all those wonderful juices.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
Now it’s time to warm up your corn tortillas! You can do this in a skillet over medium heat or carefully over a flame for a few seconds on each side until they’re pliable and warm.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a warm tortilla and add a generous scoop of the shredded beef. Top it off with some diced red onion and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Feel free to load it up just the way you like it!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious tacos with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime juice over the top for that extra zing. Enjoy your homemade honey chipotle shredded beef tacos with friends and family!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for These Tacos?
Yes, you can substitute beef chuck roast with other cuts such as brisket or flank steak. However, ensure the cut you choose is suitable for slow cooking to achieve that tender texture. If using steak, reduce the cooking time to about 4-6 hours on low.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, you can add more chipotle peppers in adobo or a splash of hot sauce to the cooking mixture. Just start with a small amount and taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!
What Should I Do with Leftover Shredded Beef?
Store leftover shredded beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. You can also freeze any extra for future taco nights!
Can I Prepare This Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shredded beef a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. When you are ready to serve, reheat it on low heat, adding a bit of beef broth if it seems dry.
