During barbecue season, nothing excites me more than a well-cooked roast beef nestled between soft, toasted buns. Picture it: friends gathered around the picnic table, laughter filling the air, and the tantalizing scent of barbecue wafting through the backyard.
It’s a gorgeous sunny day, and the last thing on your mind is slaving over a hot stove. That’s where this delightful barbecue roast beef recipe shines! It pairs beautifully with coleslaw, cucumber salad, or crispy potato chips. Let me guide you through making a tender, juicy roast that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Barbecue roast beef is the perfect centerpiece for any summer gathering. It’s hearty, flavorful, and really simple to prepare. Plus, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it until mealtime.
Whether you’re serving it as a sandwich or on a plate with sides, this dish is sure to win over your guests—or even just your family on a regular weeknight.
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What is Barbecue Roast Beef Recipe?
At its core, barbecue roast beef consists of a tender cut of beef, typically a chuck roast, slow-cooked in barbecue sauce until it falls apart. The low and slow cooking method infuses the meat with deep flavors and keeps it moist. This recipe capitalizes on simplicity while letting the ingredients shine, making it a favorite among busy home cooks and barbecue enthusiasts alike.
What Does It Taste Like?
The beauty of barbecue roast beef lies in its combination of sweetness and a touch of smokiness, with the richness of the meat shining through. It showcases a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce that envelops the tender beef in every bite. You’ll get bursts of garlic and onion, harmonizing beautifully with the roast’s natural flavor. Honestly, it’s like a flavor festival on your taste buds!
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe works because it employs minimal ingredients and simple techniques, allowing the star—the beef—to shine. The slow cooker method ensures even cooking, resulting in tender meat without the stress of constant monitoring. Plus, using high-quality barbecue sauce elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. This is a set-it-and-forget-it style that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!
Ingredients

– 1 (3 pound) boneless chuck roast
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for added depth)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 (18 ounce) bottle of your favorite barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (for a smoky finish)
Ingredients From : allrecipes.com
How to Make Barbecue Roast Beef Recipe?
Let’s dive into the steps for making this delicious barbecue roast beef. It’s a straightforward process, and I’ll walk you through each stage to ensure your dinner turns out perfect.
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all of your ingredients. This prevents any last-minute scrambles and makes the cooking process smoother. You’ll need your chuck roast, seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and barbecue sauce—all set and ready to go!
Step 2: Prepare Your Roast

Place your chuck roast into the slow cooker. Then, sprinkle it generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; this will add delicious flavor to the meat as it cooks. Use your hands to rub the spices into the roast, ensuring an even coating.
Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

Pour Worcestershire sauce over the seasoned roast. This not only intensifies the flavor but also contributes to the overall moistness of the beef. Then, generously drizzle your barbecue sauce over the top. Make sure the roast is well-coated to ensure every bite is flavorful!
Step 4: Slow Cook Your Roast

Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. You want the meat to become super tender, so low and slow is the way to go! While that’s happening, you can kick back, relax, or tackle some other tasks.
Step 5: Shred the Beef

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker using tongs. Place it on a cutting board, then shred the meat using two forks. You’ll be amazed at how easily it falls apart! After shredding, return the meat to the slow cooker and stir it back into the remaining juices. Let it cook for just one more hour to absorb all that delicious flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

After the final cooking time, it’s time to scoop that beautifully shredded barbecue roast beef onto a platter or straight onto your sandwich buns. Serve hot, and enjoy the savory goodness you’ve created!
Notes
– Let the roast rest. If you have time, let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes after it’s cooked before shredding. This can keep some additional moisture inside.
– Experiment with sauces. Don’t hesitate to mix different barbecue sauces or add a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
– Adjust for size. If your roast is larger than 3 pounds, adjust cooking time accordingly.
– Use leftovers creatively. Throw leftover roast beef in sandwiches, salads, or tacos for delightful new meals.
– Keep it simple. This recipe is all about the beef and sauce—don’t feel pressured to add lots of extras unless you want to!
Storage Tips
To store your barbecue roast beef, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the shredded beef in freezer bags for up to three months. Just remember to label and date your bags!
Sides for Barbecue Roast Beef Recipe
– Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy salad balances out the richness of the roast perfectly.
– Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is another great staple that complements the beef.
– Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread is a classic pairing that makes every bite feel special.
– Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn tossed on the grill are fresh and colorful companions.
– Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans bring a delightful contrast to the beef.
What are Some Alternative Choices to the Ingredients in Case They Are Not in Your Pantry?
– Chuck Roast: If you can’t find chuck roast, a brisket can be a flavorful alternative.
– Garlic Powder: You can replace it with fresh minced garlic (1 clove = 1/8 tsp garlic powder).
– Barbecue Sauce: Ranch dressing can give a different flavor profile if you’re in a pinch or searching for something lighter.
– Worcestershire Sauce: Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can add a unique twist.
– Smoked Paprika: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work in a pinch.
Conclusion
With its rich flavor and tender texture, barbecue roast beef is a fantastic choice for your next summer cookout or weeknight meal. Whether served in sandwiches or on its own with sides, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Plus, the slow cooker makes this recipe a breeze to prepare! Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a regular feature in your dinner rotation. Happy cooking!
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Description
Barbecue roast beef is the perfect centerpiece for any summer gathering. It’s hearty, flavorful, and really simple to prepare. Plus, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it until mealtime.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
-
Start by gathering all of your ingredients. This prevents any last-minute scrambles and makes the cooking process smoother. You’ll need your chuck roast, seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and barbecue sauce—all set and ready to go!
Step 2: Prepare Your Roast
-
Place your chuck roast into the slow cooker. Then, sprinkle it generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; this will add delicious flavor to the meat as it cooks. Use your hands to rub the spices into the roast, ensuring an even coating.
Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters
-
Pour Worcestershire sauce over the seasoned roast. This not only intensifies the flavor but also contributes to the overall moistness of the beef. Then, generously drizzle your barbecue sauce over the top. Make sure the roast is well-coated to ensure every bite is flavorful!
Step 4: Slow Cook Your Roast
-
Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. You want the meat to become super tender, so low and slow is the way to go! While that’s happening, you can kick back, relax, or tackle some other tasks.
Step 5: Shred the Beef
-
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker using tongs. Place it on a cutting board, then shred the meat using two forks. You’ll be amazed at how easily it falls apart! After shredding, return the meat to the slow cooker and stir it back into the remaining juices. Let it cook for just one more hour to absorb all that delicious flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
-
After the final cooking time, it’s time to scoop that beautifully shredded barbecue roast beef onto a platter or straight onto your sandwich buns. Serve hot, and enjoy the savory goodness you've created!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Total Carbohydrate 23g8%
- Protein 21g42%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Let the roast rest. If you have time, let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes after it's cooked before shredding. This can keep some additional moisture inside.
- Experiment with sauces. Don’t hesitate to mix different barbecue sauces or add a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Adjust for size. If your roast is larger than 3 pounds, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Use leftovers creatively. Throw leftover roast beef in sandwiches, salads, or tacos for delightful new meals.
- Keep it simple. This recipe is all about the beef and sauce—don’t feel pressured to add lots of extras unless you want to!