Beef Barbacoa Tacos

Name: Beef Barbacoa Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 lbs beef chuck roast; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, roughly chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder; 1 orange, juiced; 1 lime, juiced; 1 cup beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 small corn tortillas; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges; Sliced radishes; Diced onion

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

I absolutely love making Beef Barbacoa Tacos, especially during gatherings with friends and family. The slow-cooked beef is so tender and packed with flavor, aromatic with spices that fill my kitchen. As I prepare the ingredients, I can’t help but anticipate the moment when everyone takes their first bite. The combination of juicy barbacoa meat in a warm tortilla, topped with fresh cilantro and lime, creates a delicious experience that’s hard to beat. Whether it's a casual dinner or a celebration, these tacos never fail to impress.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:54:29.068Z

Preparing Beef Barbacoa Tacos has become one of my favorite culinary traditions. The process of marinating the beef overnight infuses it with such depth of flavor; it truly elevates the dish. I often adjust the spices based on what I have on hand, which makes every batch a little unique.

Another tip is to let the beef rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite is moist and flavorful. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in the overall texture of the tacos, and I always notice my guests asking for more.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, bold flavors that awaken your taste buds
Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that's easy to pull apart
Versatile toppings to customize each taco to your liking

Unlocking the Flavor of Beef Barbacoa

The flavor profile of beef barbacoa is designed to be rich and complex, thanks to the use of spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle chili powder. These ingredients not only add heat but also depth to the dish. To enhance their essence, be sure to toast the spices briefly in the skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Just a minute or two over medium heat can release their oils and elevate the flavor considerably.

The choice of beef is just as crucial for the overall taste and texture. A chuck roast is perfect for barbacoa, as its marbled fat breaks down beautifully during the slow cooking process, resulting in beef that shreds effortlessly. If you're looking for an alternative, brisket could work, but it requires more careful monitoring during cooking due to its leaner composition.

Perfecting Your Tacos

When assembling your tacos, the type of tortilla used can make a significant difference. Small corn tortillas provide a lovely texture and flavor that pairs well with the barbacoa. To prevent them from splitting, warm the tortillas before filling—this can be done in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 15-20 seconds.

Toppings are where you can get creative, so feel free to tailor them to your palate. Fresh cilantro adds brightness, while diced onions contribute crunch and sharpness. For something extra, consider adding a drizzle of crema or a shake of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. Remember, the balance of flavors is essential, so adjust toppings to complement the tender barbacoa.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

For the Beef Barbacoa

3 lbs beef chuck roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, roughly chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1 orange, juiced
1 lime, juiced
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

12 small corn tortillas
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges
Sliced radishes
Diced onion

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Steps

Follow these steps to prepare your Beef Barbacoa Tacos:

Sear the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until browned. This should take about 5-6 minutes.

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker. Add onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, chipotle powder, orange juice, lime juice, and beef broth. Mix well to combine.

Cook the Beef

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Shred the Beef

Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices.

Assemble Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the shredded barbacoa, and top with cilantro, radishes, and onion. Serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious Beef Barbacoa Tacos!

Pro Tips

Try marinating the beef overnight for even more flavor, and feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or salsa.

Make-Ahead Tips

Beef barbacoa is perfect for meal prepping, as it stores well and actually tastes better after sitting for a day! After cooking, cool the beef completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the shredded beef in portions; it should keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.

If you're planning a gathering, consider preparing the barbacoa a day in advance. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together, making the meat even more delicious. Just reheat it on low in the slow cooker or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your barbacoa seems too dry after cooking, it could be due to overcooking or lack of adequate liquid. Ensure to monitor the slow cooker—if cooking on low for too long, the meat may dry out. If this happens, adding a bit more beef broth during the shredding step can help revive the moisture and flavor.

For a too-spicy outcome, which can happen with chipotle chili powder, adjust the heat from the beginning. Use a smaller amount in the spice blend and gradually add more after tasting. This approach allows you to gauge the heat level accurately while cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, but chuck roast is ideal for its rich flavor and tenderness when slow cooked.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen when stored overnight, making it a great make-ahead meal.

→ What can I serve with these tacos?

They pair wonderfully with Mexican rice, beans, or a simple salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the shredded beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.