If you’re a fan of Chipotle’s barbacoa, you’re going to love this Crockpot Chipotle Barbacoa Bowl recipe! And if you haven’t tried it before, don’t worry, you’re in for a treat with this flavorful, savory dish that’s easy to prepare.
A few years back, my friend Jennifer introduced this recipe during a recipe night with our MOMS Club, and we were all captivated by its bold taste and comforting aroma! I especially appreciate that it simmers in the crockpot all day, making my home smell like a top-tier restaurant. With its spicy, tangy kick, this barbacoa goes well with almost anything you choose. Serve it to guests, and they’ll think you’re a culinary star. Here’s how to make this amazing Crockpot Chipotle Barbacoa Bowl:
Steps to Create Your Crockpot Chipotle Barbacoa Bowl
If you’re ready to make this mouth-watering meal, follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Begin with a 3-pound chuck roast and your crockpot. While chuck roast is ideal for its fat and connective tissue, you could also use beef brisket, cheeks, or even lamb or goat for a more traditional barbacoa. Cut the roast into 2-inch pieces, then set your crockpot on low.
Step 2: Add Onion, Garlic, and Chipotles
Toss in one finely chopped onion, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 2-4 chipotles in adobo sauce (2 for mild, up to 4 for extra spice). These chipotles bring a signature smoky depth, which really makes this dish sing!
Step 3: Pour in Lime Juice and Apple Cider Vinegar
Add 1/4 cup of lime juice and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Besides giving a bright, tangy punch, these two ingredients help tenderize the meat by breaking down the collagen in the connective tissues.
Step 4: Blend the Sauce Ingredients
For a perfectly smooth sauce, blend the 1/2 cup beef broth, chipotle peppers, 4 garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup lime juice, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves until smooth. This step ensures the flavors blend evenly and makes the meat juicy and flavorful throughout.
Step 5: Add Beef Broth
Pour in 1/2 cup of beef broth for moisture and depth. If you’re out of broth, you can substitute with bone broth for extra flavor or water if you’re in a pinch.
Step 6: Combine and Cook
Stir everything together and make sure the sauce coats the beef well. Place 3 bay leaves on top, then set the crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Step 7: Shred and Marinate
Near the end of cooking time, use forks to shred the beef. The meat should have a deep brown color, and the aromas of vinegar and cloves should shine through. Let it marinate for another 10 minutes in its juices. Properly cooked barbacoa will shred easily; if it doesn’t, let it cook longer. Store leftovers with juices in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator or 6 months in the freezer!
Serving Ideas for Crockpot Chipotle Barbacoa Bowl
Now comes the fun part: deciding how to serve this versatile Crockpot Chipotle Barbacoa Bowl. I love it over a bed of fresh lettuce with guacamole and sour cream. Or, try rolling it in a tortilla for a burrito, piling it on top of tortilla chips for loaded nachos, or serving it alongside rice or mashed potatoes. For a little twist, use it in quesadillas with plenty of cheese, or even make barbacoa enchiladas by rolling it in tortillas with sauce and cheese, then baking until bubbly. My husband’s favorite way to enjoy it? Straight out of the crockpot!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers with the cooking liquid in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or crockpot on warm to keep it juicy. If you plan to freeze it, let the barbacoa cool completely, then portion it into freezer bags. This freezes beautifully for up to 6 months, and reheating from frozen is simple, just pop it in the microwave or back into your crockpot!
How Will You Enjoy Your Crockpot Chipotle Barbacoa Bowl?
The possibilities are endless. How will you serve this unforgettable Crockpot Chipotle Barbacoa Bowl? Share your ideas below, I’d love to hear them! For more irresistible slow-cooker recipes, explore my Crockpot Meals collection or follow me on Pinterest for fresh cooking inspiration. Happy cooking, y’all!
