These Honey Chipotle Shredded Beef Tacos are a tasty treat! The beef is slow-cooked until it’s super tender, then mixed with a sweet and spicy sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Making these tacos is so much fun! I pile them high with all my favorite toppings like avocado and cheese. Every bite is a party, and I can’t help but want seconds! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chuck Roast or Beef Brisket: These cuts are great for slow cooking as they become tender and juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using sirloin or even pork shoulder for a different flavor.
Honey: Honey gives a sweet balance to the spicy chipotle. If you’re looking for alternatives, agave syrup or maple syrup can work nicely without losing the sweetness.
Chipotle in Adobo Sauce: This ingredient adds smokiness and heat. If you don’t have it, try using cayenne pepper or even BBQ sauce mixed with a little liquid smoke for a similar effect.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are not just for flavor but also for building depth. Yellow onions are best, but you can substitute with red onions. Shallots can also add a nicer flavor if you have them on hand.
Beef Broth: This adds richness to the sauce. Vegetable broth is a good substitute for a lighter base, or you can use water with added seasonings for a simpler option.
How Do I Make Sure My Beef Is Tender and Easy to Shred?
The key to tender beef is low and slow cooking. When cooking, be patient. If using a slow cooker, cooking on low for 8-10 hours is ideal. For stovetop methods, ensure the lid is tight to keep moisture in.
- Start with a good sear on the meat before adding it to the pot for extra flavor.
- Check occasionally if using a pot to monitor tenderness—should shred easily with a fork after about 3 hours.
- Once shredded, mix back into the sauce to keep the beef flavorful and moist.
Enjoy making your tacos! They’ll be flavorful, tender, and a hit at any meal.
How to Make Honey Chipotle Shredded Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 3 lbs chuck roast or beef brisket
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2-3 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Pickled red onions (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Avocado crema or guacamole (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will require 8-10 hours to cook in a slow cooker or about 3 hours on the stove. The waiting time is worth it—your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have delicious tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a slow cooker or a large pot, mix together the honey, chipotle in adobo, diced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined, creating a flavorful sauce.
2. Add the Meat:
Carefully place the chuck roast or brisket into the pot. Make sure the meat is well coated with the sauce mixture. This will help to infuse it with all those delicious flavors!
3. Cook Until Tender:
If you’re using a slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork. If you prefer to use a pot, bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
4. Shred the Beef:
Once it’s done cooking, carefully remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir it all together with the tasty sauce to make every bite flavorful.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In the meantime, warm up the tortillas on a skillet over medium heat until they are pliable. This will make them easier to fill and fold!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to make your tacos! Take a warm tortilla and fill it generously with the shredded beef. Top it off with pickled red onions and fresh cilantro for that extra zing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos alongside lime wedges and your choice of avocado crema or guacamole. Squeeze some lime over the top for a refreshing burst of flavor, and enjoy your delicious Honey Chipotle Shredded Beef Tacos!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like a brisket or chuck roast, but for best results, look for a cut that has good marbling. If you’re short on time, flank steak or skirt steak can work too, though they may need less cooking time to avoid toughness.
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want milder tacos, use just 1 tablespoon of chipotle in adobo sauce and remove the seeds from the peppers before adding them. For extra heat, you can add more chipotle or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. Taste as you go!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The shredded beef can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before assembling your tacos. The flavors will actually improve as they sit!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the shredded beef for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy your tacos again later!
