Easy To Make Mexican Shredded Beef Recipe

Mexican shredded beef is a warm and comforting dish with tender meat that absorbs rich flavors from spices, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables. It is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for gatherings and works beautifully in tacos, burritos, bowls, quesadillas, or with rice and vegetables. The steps are clear and beginner friendly, and the ingredients are easy to find, making this a reliable dish anyone can prepare with confidence.

Below you will find the complete recipe with precise measurements, step by step instructions, helpful tips, serving ideas, nutritional details, and a supportive FAQ for every home cook.

Ingredients Needed

For the Beef

• 3 pounds chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Sauce and Aromatics

• 1 large onion sliced
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Step by Step Cooking Instructions for Easy To Make Mexican Shredded Beef Recipe

Prepare the Beef

Pat the chuck roast dry, coat it with all the spices, and let it rest briefly. Heat olive oil in a heavy pot over medium high heat, then sear the roast on all sides until it develops a deep brown crust for added flavor.

Add Aromatics and Liquids

Remove the seared roast and cook the onions until soft, then add the garlic briefly. Return the roast to the pot and pour in the broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, lime juice, and vinegar so the liquid reaches halfway up the meat. Stir lightly to combine.

Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover the pot and simmer the beef on low for several hours until it falls apart easily, adding a little broth if the liquid gets low. The sauce will become thick, rich, and full of deep savory flavor.

Shred the Beef

Remove the roast, shred it with two forks, then return the beef to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce. Simmer briefly so the meat absorbs the flavors.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

You can easily customize Mexican shredded beef to suit your taste. Add chipotle in adobo or cayenne for heat, extra lime juice for brightness, or a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance acidity. Roasted bell peppers or green chilies add depth, and a splash of broth can adjust the sauce if it becomes too thick. This recipe also works with other cuts like brisket or rump roast, and leaner cuts may need slightly more broth to stay moist.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this recipe, based on six servings, contains approximately 390 calories, 38 grams of protein, 22 grams of fat, 7 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, and 2 grams of sugar. These values may vary slightly depending on the cut of beef, the brand of broth, and any optional ingredients you choose to include.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican shredded beef is versatile and works in many dishes. It is perfect for tacos with tortillas, onions, cilantro, jalapenos, cheese, or sour cream. It also pairs well with rice bowls, black beans, corn, avocado, and lime, or in quesadillas, burritos, enchiladas, nachos, and stuffed peppers. The flavors complement roasted vegetables, salads, and steamed corn, and the meat reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions