29+ Satisfying Crockpot Barbacoa Recipes to Try This Season

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Barbacoa is one of the most beloved and versatile dishes in Latin cuisine.

With its deep flavors, tender texture, and the ease of slow cooking, barbacoa has become a go-to meal for busy families, home cooks, and taco lovers alike.

If you’ve ever craved the deliciousness of barbacoa but didn’t want to spend hours over a hot stove, then you’re in the right place!

Slow cookers make it easier than ever to prepare this savory, melt-in-your-mouth dish.

Whether you prefer the smoky heat of chipotle, the refreshing sweetness of mango, or the bold flavors of cumin and garlic, there’s a perfect crockpot barbacoa recipe for everyone.

In this article, we’ve compiled a collection of 29+ crockpot barbacoa recipes that are simple, flavorful, and bound to please everyone at your dinner table.

From classic beef barbacoa to creative twists, these recipes promise to elevate your meals with minimal effort.

29+ Satisfying Crockpot Barbacoa Recipes to Try This Season

Crockpot barbacoa is the ultimate solution for flavorful, easy-to-make meals.

With the vast array of recipes we’ve shared, you can tailor the dish to your preferences—whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, smoky, or savory.

The beauty of barbacoa lies in its versatility, and the slow cooker ensures that you get perfectly tender, juicy beef every time.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply looking for a new twist on a classic dish, these 29+ crockpot barbacoa recipes will become your go-to guide for making delicious, slow-cooked meals.

So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy mouthwatering barbacoa that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Classic Barbacoa Beef

This recipe stays true to the roots of traditional barbacoa, blending authentic spices and slow-cooking methods to create a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish that melts in your mouth. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls, this classic barbacoa recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into large chunks
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 small white onion, roughly chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cloves, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in your crockpot. Pour the blended mixture over the beef, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  3. Add the beef broth to the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
  4. Remove the beef from the crockpot and shred using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the juices in the crockpot and stir to combine.
  5. Serve warm in tacos, burritos, or over rice.

This classic barbacoa recipe captures the essence of Mexican cuisine with its robust flavors and succulent texture. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.

Spicy Chipotle Barbacoa

Turn up the heat with this spicy chipotle barbacoa recipe that combines smoky peppers, bold spices, and a hint of citrus. This version is perfect for spice lovers looking to add a kick to their tacos or salads.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef brisket, trimmed and cut into large chunks
  • 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 3 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 3/4 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. Blend chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper into a smooth sauce.
  2. Place the brisket chunks in the crockpot and pour the sauce over the top.
  3. Add the beef broth to the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours or on high for 6-8 hours until the brisket is fork-tender.
  4. Shred the meat and mix it back into the sauce to absorb the spicy flavors.
  5. Serve with warm tortillas, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of cilantro.

This spicy chipotle barbacoa is not for the faint-hearted but rewards those who enjoy bold, fiery flavors. The smoky heat of the chipotle peppers complements the tender beef, making it a showstopper for any meal.

Zesty Lime Barbacoa

Infused with bright citrus flavors, this zesty lime barbacoa offers a tangy twist on the classic recipe. It’s light, fresh, and pairs beautifully with pico de gallo or a refreshing slaw.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into large chunks
  • 3 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp orange juice
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. Blend lime juice, orange juice, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  2. Place beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the citrus mixture over them.
  3. Add beef broth to the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Shred the beef and stir it back into the juices.
  5. Serve with a squeeze of lime, fresh cilantro, and your favorite toppings.

This zesty lime barbacoa brings a burst of freshness to your table. Its tangy notes and tender texture make it an excellent choice for light yet flavorful meals that leave you feeling satisfied.

Slow-Cooked Barbacoa with Avocado and Cilantro

This variation of barbacoa brings out the richness of the beef while adding the refreshing touch of avocado and cilantro, making it a perfect dish for tacos, burritos, or even salads. The slow-cooked beef, paired with creamy avocado, creates a balance of flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 2 avocados, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Blend chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cloves, salt, and black pepper in a blender until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in your crockpot and pour the blended mixture over the top.
  3. Add the beef broth to the crockpot and stir everything together. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
  4. Shred the beef with two forks and stir to incorporate the juices.
  5. Serve in tortillas or over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and avocado slices.

The creamy avocado and fresh cilantro elevate the dish, giving it a burst of flavor while the slow-cooked barbacoa remains rich and tender. This variation offers a beautiful balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors.

Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Barbacoa

This barbacoa recipe adds a touch of sweetness with pineapple, balancing out the heat of the spices. It’s a vibrant, tropical twist on the traditional barbacoa that’s perfect for a unique family meal or a backyard barbecue.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef brisket, cut into chunks
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup diced pineapple
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. Blend pineapple juice, diced pineapple, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  2. Place the brisket chunks in the crockpot, and pour the pineapple mixture over the top.
  3. Add the beef broth and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours or on high for 6-8 hours until the brisket is fork-tender.
  4. Shred the beef and mix back into the juices.
  5. Serve with a squeeze of lime and garnish with fresh cilantro or pineapple slices.

The combination of sweet pineapple and spicy chipotles makes this recipe a stand-out, offering a flavorful contrast that will delight the senses. The tender beef and tropical flavors make it ideal for summer gatherings.

Smoky Coffee Barbacoa

Infuse your barbacoa with the rich depth of coffee. This smoky coffee version brings out the beef’s natural flavors while adding a unique, robust undertone. It’s perfect for those who enjoy bold and savory meals.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
  • 1/2 cup brewed coffee (preferably dark roast)
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine brewed coffee, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the coffee mixture over the beef.
  3. Add beef broth to the crockpot and stir to mix. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Shred the beef and stir it back into the juices.
  5. Serve in tacos, burritos, or over a bed of rice, garnished with chopped cilantro.

The coffee brings an earthy, smoky element to the barbacoa, enhancing the richness of the beef. This unique flavor profile is perfect for those looking to try something different with their classic barbacoa recipe.

Garlic and Herb Barbacoa

A fragrant twist on the traditional barbacoa, this recipe focuses on fresh herbs and garlic, creating a rich, savory profile that’s full of aromatic flavors. Ideal for those who prefer their barbacoa on the milder side but still want bold, comforting flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the herb mixture over the beef.
  3. Add beef broth and stir to mix. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Shred the beef and mix back into the flavorful herb sauce.
  5. Serve with warm tortillas or over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

This garlic and herb barbacoa brings a more delicate but equally flavorful touch to the traditional recipe. The fresh herbs elevate the beef without overpowering it, making it a perfect choice for a lighter yet satisfying meal.

Barbacoa with Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

Add a tangy twist with this barbacoa recipe featuring roasted tomatillo salsa. The tartness of the tomatillos balances out the richness of the slow-cooked beef, making it an exciting and fresh variation on the classic barbacoa.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
  • 4 tomatillos, husked and roasted
  • 1 small onion, roasted
  • 3 garlic cloves, roasted
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. Roast the tomatillos, onion, and garlic by placing them under the broiler for about 10 minutes until they get a nice char. Let them cool slightly.
  2. In a blender, combine the roasted tomatillos, onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  3. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the roasted salsa over the beef.
  4. Add the beef broth to the crockpot and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Shred the beef and mix it with the salsa.
  6. Serve with tortillas, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

The roasted tomatillo salsa adds a wonderful depth of flavor with its smoky, tangy notes, making this barbacoa a refreshing yet hearty meal. It’s a perfect option for a flavorful taco night.

Mediterranean-Inspired Barbacoa

This Mediterranean-inspired barbacoa recipe takes the traditional flavors to a new level with fresh herbs, lemon, and a touch of yogurt. It’s a fusion that combines the rich, slow-cooked beef with a zesty, refreshing twist.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the mixture over the top.
  3. Add the beef broth and stir. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Shred the beef and mix in the plain yogurt to add creaminess and tang.
  5. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and enjoy in pita bread or over rice.

The Mediterranean twist brings a refreshing, herby contrast to the traditional barbacoa, with the yogurt adding a creamy texture that perfectly complements the slow-cooked beef. This recipe offers an exciting variation that’s perfect for a new take on classic flavors.

Barbacoa with Roasted Red Peppers

Roasted red peppers add a sweet, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the rich beef in this barbacoa recipe. The sweetness of the peppers balances the spicy and savory elements, creating a harmonious and deeply satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 2 roasted red peppers, peeled and chopped
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine roasted red peppers, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in your crockpot and pour the pepper mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the beef broth to the crockpot and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Shred the beef with two forks, mixing it back into the juices.
  5. Serve with tortillas, rice, or over nachos for a satisfying meal.

The sweetness from the roasted red peppers combined with the smoky chipotles creates a rich depth of flavor in this barbacoa. It’s a unique take that adds a gentle sweetness while still delivering on the classic barbacoa spices.

Barbacoa with Pomegranate Molasses

Pomegranate molasses introduces a tangy-sweet note to this barbacoa recipe, balancing the savory richness of the beef with its fruity and tart flavor. This version is perfect for those looking to add an unexpected twist to their barbacoa.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef brisket, cut into chunks
  • 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine pomegranate molasses, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the pomegranate mixture over the beef.
  3. Add beef broth to the crockpot and stir everything together. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender and shreddable.
  4. Shred the beef with two forks and return it to the juices.
  5. Serve with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and your favorite toppings.

The tartness of pomegranate molasses adds a beautiful contrast to the beef, creating a complex flavor profile that is both sweet and savory. This barbacoa version is a delightful variation for special occasions or a memorable family meal.

Chipotle and Beer Barbacoa

The addition of beer gives this barbacoa a subtle malty flavor, which pairs perfectly with the smoky chipotles. The result is a savory and slightly earthy version of barbacoa that will take your tacos or burritos to the next level.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 1 bottle of dark beer (preferably stout or porter)
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine beer, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the beer mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the beef broth and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
  4. Shred the beef and mix it into the flavorful beer sauce.
  5. Serve with tortillas, rice, or in a hearty sandwich.

The dark beer infuses the barbacoa with a unique richness and depth of flavor. It adds a slight bitterness that balances the heat of the chipotles, resulting in a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening.

Barbacoa with Coconut Milk

The creamy texture of coconut milk adds a luxurious richness to this barbacoa, making it a unique fusion recipe. The mild coconut flavor complements the spices, creating a comforting and indulgent dish.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine coconut milk, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the coconut milk mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the beef broth and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender and easy to shred.
  4. Shred the beef and mix it back into the coconut milk sauce.
  5. Serve with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

The coconut milk gives the barbacoa a creamy, velvety texture that balances the spiciness of the chipotles and adds an unexpected tropical flair. This is an excellent dish for those seeking a comforting yet distinctive flavor.

Smoky Ancho Barbacoa

This smoky ancho chile version of barbacoa is a great alternative for those who prefer a milder heat but still want a flavorful kick. The ancho chiles lend a rich, smoky depth to the beef that’s perfect for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 4 ancho chiles, seeds removed and softened in warm water
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. Blend softened ancho chiles, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper with a small amount of water until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the ancho chile mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the beef broth and stir everything together. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
  4. Shred the beef with two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
  5. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.

The mild heat of the ancho chiles brings a rich, smoky flavor without overwhelming the beef, making this version of barbacoa approachable yet deeply satisfying.

Barbacoa with Tomato and Green Chile

This barbacoa recipe combines fresh tomatoes and green chiles, adding a fresh and slightly tangy flavor to the rich beef. It’s a simple and flavorful variation that enhances the classic barbacoa taste.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine tomatoes, green chiles, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the tomato-chile mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the beef broth to the crockpot and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Shred the beef and return it to the juices.
  5. Serve with tortillas, rice, or in a hearty sandwich.

The combination of fresh tomatoes and green chiles adds a delightful tang and richness to the beef, making this barbacoa recipe an easy and delicious option for any meal.

Caribbean-Inspired Barbacoa with Mango

This Caribbean-inspired barbacoa introduces the vibrant sweetness of mango, combining tropical fruit with the rich, savory flavor of slow-cooked beef. The sweet and spicy combination brings a fresh twist to the classic barbacoa.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine mango, onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, cumin, coriander, lime juice, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the mango mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the beef broth to the crockpot and stir. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Shred the beef and mix back into the juices.
  5. Serve with tortillas, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

The natural sweetness of mango, combined with the smoky chipotles, gives this barbacoa a rich tropical flavor, making it perfect for a fun and exciting meal with a Caribbean flair.

Barbacoa with Roasted Garlic and Lemon

This version of barbacoa uses roasted garlic and a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the traditionally bold flavors. The roasted garlic gives the dish a mellow sweetness that blends beautifully with the savory beef.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 1 head of garlic, roasted
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground thyme
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. Roast the garlic by cutting off the top of the head and drizzling with olive oil. Wrap it in foil and roast at 375°F for about 30-35 minutes until soft. Squeeze out the roasted garlic.
  2. In a blender, combine the roasted garlic, lemon juice, onion, chipotle peppers, cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  3. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the garlic-lemon mixture over the beef.
  4. Add the beef broth and stir. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
  5. Shred the beef and return it to the juices.
  6. Serve with tortillas and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

The mellow sweetness from the roasted garlic and the tang from the lemon add an aromatic freshness to the barbacoa, making it a great dish for those who enjoy a balance of savory and bright flavors.

Barbacoa with Cinnamon and Star Anise

This barbacoa recipe introduces the warmth of cinnamon and the complexity of star anise, creating a rich, aromatic flavor profile. The spices add depth and make this barbacoa a comforting, exotic variation perfect for cooler months.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the blended mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the cinnamon stick and star anise pods to the crockpot.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Remove the cinnamon stick and star anise pods. Shred the beef and stir it back into the juices.
  6. Serve with rice or tortillas and garnish with cilantro.

The cinnamon and star anise add warmth and a slight licorice-like flavor to the barbacoa, creating a comforting and aromatic meal. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy sweet-spicy combinations.

Spicy Sriracha Barbacoa

For a spicy kick, this barbacoa incorporates sriracha sauce, delivering a fiery heat that is balanced by the richness of the beef. If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 3 tbsp sriracha sauce (or more for extra heat)
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine sriracha, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the sriracha mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the beef broth and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Shred the beef with two forks, mixing it back into the spicy sauce.
  5. Serve with tortillas, rice, or on a sandwich for a spicy, flavorful meal.

The heat from the sriracha adds a bold kick, while the richness of the slow-cooked beef balances the spice perfectly. This recipe is ideal for those who love spicy, savory meals.

Barbacoa with Apple and Rosemary

This barbacoa recipe introduces the crisp sweetness of apples and the herbal fragrance of rosemary. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory-sweet dish that’s perfect for fall or winter meals.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine apples, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the apple mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the rosemary sprigs and beef broth. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Remove the rosemary sprigs. Shred the beef and mix it back into the flavorful sauce.
  5. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or in a sandwich.

The combination of apple sweetness and aromatic rosemary creates a warm, comforting flavor profile, making this barbacoa a perfect dish for the colder months. The subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory beef, offering a unique variation on the classic recipe.

Barbacoa with Black Beans and Corn

This barbacoa recipe combines the richness of beef with hearty black beans and sweet corn. The result is a well-rounded dish that offers both texture and flavor, perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a main dish over rice.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the blended mixture over the beef.
  3. Add the black beans, corn, and beef broth to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Shred the beef and mix it with the beans and corn.
  6. Serve with tortillas, rice, or as a hearty taco filling.

The addition of black beans and corn makes this barbacoa heartier and more filling, creating a well-rounded, flavorful meal that pairs perfectly with the tender, slow-cooked beef. It’s a great choice for a family-friendly dinner.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!