Pulled beef is typically made from cuts like chuck roast, brisket, or short ribs. These cuts have a good amount of fat and connective tissue, which breaks down during slow cooking to create tender, flavorful meat.

Why is it Called Pulled Beef?

It is called because the meat becomes so tender after cooking that it can be easily apart using a fork. The term "pulled" refers to the shredding process of the meat into pieces.

What Makes Meat "Pulled"?

The process of slow cooking at low temperatures is what makes the meat "pulled." Cooking slowly allows the connective tissue and collagen to break down, resulting in a tender, juicy texture that can be shredded effortlessly.

What Does "Pulled" Mean in Cooking?

When meat is referred to as "pulled," it means it has been slow-cooked until tender and then shredded into strands. This technique is commonly used with pork, beef, or chicken to create a versatile, flavorful dish.

The Ultimate Pulled Beef Recipe in 5 Easy Steps

Description

Tender, juicy pulled beef slow-cooked with savory spices until it falls apart effortlessly. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, grain bowls, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

3 lb beef chuck roast
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 2–3 minutes per side.
2. Place sliced onions and garlic in the bottom of a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add the seared beef on top.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings.
4. Pour the mixture over the beef. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours (slow cooker), or bake covered in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–4 hours.
5. Once the beef is fork-tender, shred with two forks directly in the pot. Stir to coat with the juices.
6. Serve warm in sandwiches, tacos, bowls, or store for meal prep.

Notes

This pulled beef freezes well—portion into containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Add BBQ sauce, chipotle, or other flavor variations to customize.
Great on slider buns with pickles or over mashed potatoes.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 8 hr
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 310
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: pulled beef, shredded beef, slow cooker beef, beef roast, meal prep beef