Slow Cooker Barbeque Recipe

Who doesn't love a good slow cooker barbeque? This recipe combines the tenderness of chuck roast with the smoky sweetness of barbeque sauce to create a meal that's sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or potluck. Best of all, it's straightforward to make with just a few simple ingredients, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you.

Photos of Slow Cooker Barbeque Recipe

The ingredients in this recipe are generally easy to find. Chuck roast, the main ingredient, is a common cut of beef found in most supermarkets. You'll also need barbeque sauce, which can be found in the condiments aisle. If you prefer, you can also make your own at home. The remaining ingredients, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, are pantry staples that you likely already have at home.

Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Barbeque

Chuck roast: This is a popular cut of beef that is perfect for slow cooking. It tends to be lean, which is great for this recipe as the slow cooking process will tenderize the meat and infuse it with the flavors of the barbeque sauce.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth to the dish. Garlic powder is more concentrated than fresh garlic and easier to distribute evenly in a recipe.

Onion powder: Onion powder is made from dehydrated onions. It provides a mild, sweet onion flavor that complements many dishes, including this one.

Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings are essential for enhancing the other flavors in the recipe.

Barbeque sauce: This brings sweetness, tang, and smoky flavor to the dish. You can use your favorite brand, or even go for a homemade version if you prefer.

One reader, Hobart Dewitt says:

This slow cooker barbeque recipe is a game-changer! The meat comes out so tender and flavorful, and the prep is minimal. It's perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you at home. I highly recommend trying it out - you won't be disappointed!

Hobart Dewitt

Techniques Required for Slow Cooker Barbeque Recipe

How to prepare the chuck roast: Season the chuck roast with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper before placing it into the slow cooker.

How to cook the meat: Pour the barbeque sauce over the seasoned meat in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

How to shred the meat: After cooking, remove the meat from the slow cooker, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker for an additional hour of cooking.

How to serve: Serve the barbeque beef hot from the slow cooker.

How To Make Slow Cooker Barbeque

For dinner parties and weekend gatherings with family, this slow cooker barbecue will surely be the star of the dining table. It’s tender and tasteful.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 9 hours

Total: 9 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3lbschuck roastboneless
1tspgarlic powder
1tsponion powder
Salt and pepperto taste
18ozbarbeque sauce

Instructions

Place roast into the slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic powder and onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
Pour barbeque sauce over meat. Cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours.
Remove meat from slow cooker, shred, and return to slow cooker. Cook for 1 more hour. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 340.01kcal
Fat: 9.50g
Saturated Fat: 3.65g
Trans Fat: 0.42g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.56g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.06g
Carbohydrates: 27.09g
Fiber: 0.83g
Sugar: 21.24g
Protein: 36.70g
Cholesterol: 108.86mg
Sodium: 781.55mg
Calcium: 46.04mg
Potassium: 850.41mg
Iron: 5.03mg
Vitamin A: 12.31µg
Vitamin C: 0.46mg

Technique Tip for Slow Cooker Barbeque Recipe

When shredding the chuck roast, it's best to use two forks. Place the forks back to back and pull in opposite directions. This will give you the perfect shredded texture. Also, remember to let the meat rest for a few minutes after removing it from the slow cooker before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the roast, making it even more flavorful.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Slow Cooker Barbeque

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-made sauce: To save time, consider using a pre-made barbeque sauce instead of making it from scratch.

Slow cooker liners: Consider using slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and less time spent scrubbing the pot.

Invest in a good slow cooker: A high-quality slow cooker can cook food more evenly and efficiently, saving time in the long run.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra portions for quick and easy meals in the future.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Barbeque Recipe

3 lbs chuck roast - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder is a great alternative for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful, similar to chuck roast.
1 tsp garlic powder - Substitute with 2-3 cloves of minced garlic: Fresh garlic will provide a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.
1 tsp onion powder - Substitute with 1/2 cup finely chopped onions: Using fresh onions will add a more pronounced and natural onion flavor to the dish.
18 oz barbeque sauce - Substitute with homemade barbeque sauce: Making your own barbeque sauce allows you to customize the flavors and reduce the amount of added sugars and preservatives.

Presentation Tips for Slow Cooker Barbeque

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow-cooked barbeque, consider using a large, elegant platter to showcase the beautifully shredded meat. The platter should be clean and free of any spills or smudges, allowing the rich colors of the barbeque to stand out.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the shredded barbeque with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle layer of flavor.
Incorporate texture: Consider serving the slow-cooked barbeque on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy polenta to create a contrast in textures. The smoothness of the base will complement the tender, succulent meat.
Add a drizzle of sauce: Before serving, delicately drizzle a small amount of the barbeque sauce over the shredded meat. This adds a glossy sheen to the dish and ensures that every bite is infused with the rich, smoky flavors of the sauce.
Use elegant serving utensils: Opt for sleek, modern serving utensils that complement the overall presentation. This attention to detail will enhance the dining experience and demonstrate a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Slow Cooker Barbeque

Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering, which allows for the slow cooking of food at low temperatures over an extended period of time.
Tongs: A versatile kitchen utensil used for gripping and lifting food items, such as the shredded meat in this recipe, while cooking or serving.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring and adding small amounts of ingredients, such as garlic powder and onion powder, to the recipe.
Measuring cup: Used for precisely measuring and pouring the barbeque sauce over the meat in the slow cooker.
Fork: Used for shredding the cooked meat before returning it to the slow cooker for the final hour of cooking.

How To Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Barbeque

Allow the barbeque to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled barbeque to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To freeze the barbeque:
- Divide the cooled barbeque into portion-sized freezer bags or airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the bags or containers with the date and contents.
- Freeze the barbeque for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen barbeque:
- Thaw the frozen barbeque in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed barbeque to a saucepan or microwave-safe dish.
- Reheat the barbeque over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches the desired temperature, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- If the barbeque seems dry after reheating, add a small amount of water, broth, or additional barbeque sauce to moisten it.

How To Reheat Slow Cooker Barbeque Leftovers

Reheat the shredded beef in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method allows you to control the moisture content and ensure even heating.
Place the leftover barbeque beef in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your desired temperature. The damp paper towel helps prevent the meat from drying out.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the slow cooker barbeque to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method is ideal for reheating larger portions and maintaining a moist, tender texture.
For a quick and easy option, reheat the barbeque in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water, beef broth, or extra barbeque sauce to maintain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through.
If you have a sous vide machine, place the leftover barbeque beef in a vacuum-sealed bag and reheat it in a water bath set to 140°F (60°C) for about 30 minutes. This method ensures even heating and maintains the original texture of the meat.

Random Fact About Slow Cooker Barbeque

Chuck roast is a versatile cut of meat that is perfect for slow cooking. It's a tough cut that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow, making it ideal for barbeque recipes.

Is This Slow Cooker Barbeque Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This slow cooker barbeque recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The chuck roast is an economical cut of meat, and the other ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens. The long cooking time allows the meat to become tender and flavorful, making it a great value for the price. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20, depending on the cost of ingredients in your area. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is Slow Cooker Barbeque Healthy or Unhealthy?

The slow cooker barbeque recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe relies heavily on a store-bought barbeque sauce, which often contains high amounts of sugar and sodium
The cut of meat used, chuck roast, is a fattier cut of beef, contributing to higher levels of saturated fat in the dish
The recipe lacks any vegetables or fiber-rich ingredients, making it a protein-heavy meal without much nutritional balance

However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be made healthier without sacrificing flavor:

Opt for a leaner cut of beef, such as a round roast or sirloin, to reduce the overall fat content
Choose a low-sugar, low-sodium barbeque sauce, or make your own using tomato paste, vinegar, spices, and a small amount of honey or molasses for sweetness
Add some vegetables to the slow cooker, such as sliced onions, bell peppers, and carrots, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
Serve the shredded beef on whole wheat buns or over a bed of brown rice and steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal
Use a small amount of the cooking liquid to moisten the shredded beef, rather than adding all of it back into the slow cooker, to reduce the overall sodium content

Editor's Thoughts on This Slow Cooker Barbeque Recipe

This slow cooker barbeque recipe is a classic and comforting dish. The chuck roast becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking in the rich barbeque sauce, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, and the slow cooking process ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It's a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering. The combination of garlic and onion powder adds depth to the flavor profile, making this recipe a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Barbeque Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with melted butter.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy corn on the cob, grilled to perfection and brushed with a savory herb butter.

Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing, made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a hint of apple for sweetness.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Slow Cooker Barbeque

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a zesty dressing before grilling for a burst of flavor.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slowly cook the beef short ribs in a rich broth until tender and falling off the bone.

Mango Sorbet: Blend fresh mangoes with sugar and lemon juice, then freeze for a refreshing and fruity dessert.

Chicken Noodle Soup: Simmer chicken, vegetables, and noodles in a savory broth for a comforting and hearty soup.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Slow Cooker Barbeque

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread for dipping and watch it disappear in no time.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples, a crunchy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Barbeque Recipe:

This slow cooker barbeque recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The chuck roast becomes tender and flavorful after slow-cooking for hours, allowing the garlic powder and onion powder to infuse the meat with rich, savory notes. The barbeque sauce adds a sweet and tangy finish, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Trust the process, as the slow cooker method ensures the meat is juicy and succulent. The result is a mouthwatering dish that will surely impress your guests. With this recipe, you can confidently create a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this slow cooker barbeque recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How long should I cook the chuck roast in the slow cooker?

You should cook the chuck roast in the slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours. This will allow the meat to become tender and flavorful.

Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different cut of meat if you prefer. However, the chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking as it becomes very tender and flavorful.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chuck roast?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, or carrots to the slow cooker along with the chuck roast for added flavor and texture.

What can I serve with the slow cooker barbeque beef?

You can serve the slow cooker barbeque beef with coleslaw, cornbread, or a side of roasted vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the slow cooker barbeque beef ahead of time. Simply cook the meat as directed, shred it, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the slow cooker before serving.