Shredded Beef Sandwiches (A Slow Cooker Recipe)

This Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Sandwich recipe features tender, juicy beef tri-tip roast slow-cooked in savory beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of spices. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, perfect for creating flavorful sandwiches. Served on toasted hoagie rolls with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms and melted mozzarella or provolone cheese, these shredded beef sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser. Ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or gatherings, this easy slow cooker recipe delivers a satisfying and hearty meal. Keywords like “slow cooker beef sandwiches,” “shredded beef sandwiches,” and “easy beef sandwich recipes” make this a perfect dish for those searching for comforting, flavorful meals.

Ingredients:

For the Shredded Beef:

• 3-4 lbs beef tri-tip roast
• 2 tablespoons Montreal steak seasoning
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary

To Serve:

• Hoagie rolls
• Caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms (optional)
• Sliced mozzarella or provolone cheese
• Reserved juices from the slow-cooked beef, for dipping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Rub the beef all over with Montreal steak seasoning, pressing it into the meat.
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden brown crust forms.
2. Slow Cook the Beef:
   • In a slow cooker, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and rosemary. Place the seared beef into the liquid and turn to coat.
   • Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
3. Shred the Beef:
   • Transfer the beef to a large bowl and use two forks to shred it. Remove and discard any excess fat from the meat.
   • Strain the liquid in the slow cooker through a sieve into a separate bowl to remove any solids. Discard the solids and skim off any excess fat from the liquid, reserving it for dipping.
4. Moisten the Beef:
   • Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and add about half of the reserved liquid, or enough to make the beef juicy and moist. Stir to combine.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   • Butter hoagie rolls and toast them in a skillet or on a griddle until golden brown.
   • Top the toasted rolls with the shredded beef, caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms (if desired), and slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese.
   • Broil the sandwiches for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with the reserved dipping sauce on the side.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Shredded Beef Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, flavorful beef that’s slow-cooked to perfection. The beef soaks up the rich, savory juices and becomes incredibly juicy and flavorful. Topped with melted cheese and served with a dipping sauce, these sandwiches are the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or looking for a satisfying sandwich, this recipe will be a hit!

Tips

• Searing the Beef: Searing the beef before slow cooking adds extra flavor and helps lock in juices. Don’t skip this step!
• Slow Cooker: Make sure to use a slow cooker with a good seal to keep the moisture in, ensuring your beef stays juicy.
• Fat Removal: For cleaner, leaner shredded beef, be sure to remove as much excess fat as possible after shredding the meat.

Variations and Substitutions

• Beef cut: While tri-tip is ideal, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket for similarly tender results.
• Bread options: Instead of hoagie rolls, you can use baguettes or even soft sandwich rolls for a different texture.
• Toppings: Customize with your favorite toppings, such as sautéed bell peppers, jalapeños, or pickles.
• Cheese alternatives: Provolone and mozzarella are classic, but you can also try cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a twist.

FAQs

Can I cook this recipe on high in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the beef on high for 4-5 hours, but low and slow is the best way to ensure tender, juicy beef.

Can I freeze the shredded beef?
Yes! The shredded beef and its juices freeze well for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, then assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

These Shredded Beef Sandwiches pair wonderfully with crispy French fries, a fresh green salad, or potato chips for a satisfying meal. For a heartier side, consider serving them with coleslaw or roasted vegetables. To elevate the meal, you can serve a refreshing iced tea or a cold beer alongside your sandwiches. For extra flavor, drizzle some barbecue sauce over the beef or add a dollop of horseradish for a kick!