Mexican Shredded Beef Recipe
Mexican shredded beef is a tasty and tender dish that brings bold flavors to your plate. The beef is cooked slowly until it becomes soft and easy to pull apart. It is seasoned with a mix of spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic that give it a rich and savory taste. This beef works great in tacos, burritos, or served with rice for a filling meal.
What makes this recipe so good is how simple it is to prepare while still being full of flavor. Cooking the beef slowly lets the spices soak in and makes the meat very tender. Whether you are feeding your family or hosting friends, this shredded beef is a great way to enjoy classic Mexican flavors without a lot of fuss.
Why You Need This Recipe
This Mexican shredded beef recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a delicious meal with minimal effort. The slow cooking process makes the beef tender and full of flavor, so you get a rich taste without spending hours in the kitchen. It is a great way to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors at home.
You will also love how versatile this recipe is. You can use the shredded beef in tacos, burritos, sandwiches, or even salads. It stores well and makes for easy leftovers, which is perfect for busy days. This recipe is a simple way to add bold, satisfying flavors to your meals.
Ingredients
This Mexican shredded beef recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Beef chuck roast | 2 pounds | 1400 |
| Onion | 1 medium, sliced | 45 |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced | 13 |
| Beef broth | 1 cup | 15 |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | 30 |
| Chili powder | 2 teaspoons | 16 |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | 8 |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon | 1 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
Estimated Total Calories: 1654 (Serves 6)
How to Prepare
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned. This step helps lock in the flavors. Once browned, transfer the beef to a slow cooker or a heavy pot.
In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onions and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant. Add tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano to the skillet, stirring to combine the spices with the onions. Pour in the beef broth and stir well. Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker or pot.
Cook the beef on low heat for about 6 to 8 hours until it is tender enough to shred easily with a fork. Once cooked, remove the beef and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the cooking liquid and mix well to soak up all the flavors. Serve hot in tacos, burritos, or over rice.
Pro Tips
Use a well marbled cut of beef like chuck roast for the best tenderness and flavor. Searing the meat before slow cooking adds depth to the dish. Avoid skipping this step even if you’re in a hurry.
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the beef in a covered pot in the oven at low heat for several hours. Make sure to check the liquid level occasionally to keep the beef moist. For extra flavor, let the shredded beef sit in the cooking juices for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps the meat absorb even more of the spices.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Mexican shredded beef goes great with warm corn or flour tortillas, making it perfect for tacos or burritos. It also pairs well with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad to complete your meal. For a casual dinner, serve it with tortilla chips and guacamole.
To add extra flavor and texture, try topping the beef with chopped onions, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice. A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese can add creaminess, while pickled vegetables bring a tangy contrast. These toppings help create a delicious and customizable meal everyone will enjoy.
Conclusion
This Mexican shredded beef recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy tender, juicy meat with authentic spices. Whether you serve it in tacos, burritos, or on its own, it will quickly become a family favorite. With easy preparation and rich taste, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and bring the bold flavors of Mexico right to your table.
