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Ultimate Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Burritos: Authentic Flavor, Effortless Prep

Prepare to transform your weeknights with this incredible recipe for Crock Pot Shredded Beef Burritos. Imagine succulent, slow-cooked chuck roast, tenderized to perfection, simmering in a rich, flavorful broth of Rotel tomatoes, diced green chilies, and aromatic onions. The result? Melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s just begging to be wrapped in a warm tortilla and adorned with all your favorite toppings. This recipe captures the vibrant, authentic taste of your beloved taco stand favorites, delivering that nostalgic experience right to your kitchen – minus the ocean breeze, perhaps!

My love affair with shredded beef burritos began years ago during a memorable stint in San Diego. The city’s vibrant food scene, particularly its numerous small taco stands, left an indelible mark on my culinary preferences. To this day, whenever we visit, our very first stop is always Roberto’s (now known as Mr. Ruribertos Mexican Food)in Mission Beach. It’s a tradition, almost a pilgrimage, no matter what time our flight lands. Thank goodness they’re open 24 hours a day!

Among their extensive menu, the shredded beef burritos have always been my undisputed favorite. Their depth of flavor, the perfect balance of spices, and the unbelievably tender beef were something I craved constantly. For years, I sought to replicate that magic at home, and I’m absolutely thrilled to say that I’ve finally mastered the art! This recipe brings that authentic taste and texture right to your dinner table, allowing you to enjoy gourmet-level Mexican comfort food with minimal effort.

Effortless Perfection: The Magic of Crock Pot Shredded Beef Burritos

When it comes to easy, delicious meals, few things beat the simplicity and flavor development of a slow cooker. This recipe for Crock Pot Shredded Beef Burritos is a testament to that. It truly doesn’t get any easier than combining a few key ingredients in your slow cooker, setting it, and letting it work its culinary magic. The crock pot gently simmers the beef, infused with the rich, spicy notes of chili-laced tomatoes and savory onions, transforming a humble chuck roast into incredibly tender, fall-apart meat that’s bursting with flavor. This hands-off approach makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd without stress.

Versatile & Delicious: More Than Just Burritos

While these slow-cooked beef burritos are a fantastic standalone meal, the tender shredded beef is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a bustling weeknight dinner when you need something quick and satisfying. Hosting a gathering? Turn it into a “build-your-own-burrito” buffet, allowing guests to customize their creations with an array of fresh toppings. Need to get ahead? Prepare the beef a few days in advance during your regular meal prep session, and it will be ready and waiting in the fridge for up to 3 days, making future meals a breeze. This slow-cooked beef is a true kitchen hero, simplifying your routine while delivering maximum flavor.

If you’re a fan of the rich, savory flavors of shredded beef, you’ll undoubtedly adore these other Mexican-inspired recipes. Explore the hearty goodness of Breakfast Burritos, indulge in the comforting layers of Slow Cooker Smothered Burritos, or enjoy the deconstructed delight of a Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Each offers a unique way to savor the deliciousness of tender, seasoned beef, showcasing the incredible adaptability of Mexican cuisine.

Your Go-To Slow Cooker Burrito Beef

If your slow cooker has been gathering dust, now is the perfect time to bring it out and let it shine with this incredible burrito beef recipe. It’s one of the simplest and most rewarding recipes you’ll ever make, and its versatility knows no bounds. While it forms the perfect filling for classic burritos, don’t hesitate to get creative! Use this tender, flavorful beef in crunchy tacos, luscious enchiladas, or as a hearty topping for nachos or salads. The possibilities are truly endless, making this a staple in your meal rotation for quick, satisfying, and authentically flavored Mexican dishes.

Personally, I enjoy my shredded beef burritos simple and pure, savoring the rich flavor of the beef itself. However, my family loves to personalize their burritos with a variety of toppings. Common favorites include fresh shredded lettuce, a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, cool sour cream, and creamy guacamole. The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to everyone’s preferences, ensuring a delightful meal for all.

Key Ingredients for the Best Crock Pot Shredded Beef Burritos

Crafting these amazing burritos requires a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. For the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, remember to scroll to the bottom of this post for the full printable recipe card.

Beef Chuck Roast: This cut of beef is the star of our show. Its generous marbling and connective tissues break down beautifully during slow cooking, yielding exceptionally tender, juicy, and flavorful shredded beef. It’s ideal for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these burritos so irresistible.
Rotel Tomatoes: These canned diced tomatoes with green chilies are a game-changer, adding a fantastic base of tangy tomato flavor and a perfect hint of spice. Choose your preferred heat level – mild, original, or hot – to suit your taste. Absolutely do not drain the liquid; it’s essential for the slow-cooking process and flavor development, contributing to the rich sauce for the shredded beef.
Diced Green Chilies: Whether you opt for fresh or canned, diced green chilies contribute a mild, earthy pepper flavor that complements the beef and tomatoes beautifully. Like the Rotel, do not drain these; their liquid adds moisture and flavor, deepening the overall Mexican taste profile of the burrito filling.
Onion: A large, sliced white or yellow onion adds a foundational layer of sweetness and savory depth as it slowly caramelizes and melds with the other ingredients. The slow cooking process allows the onion’s flavor to fully infuse the beef and sauce.
Beef Bouillon Granules: This concentrated flavor enhancer boosts the inherent beefy goodness of the chuck roast, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. It helps to create a deeply savory broth that the beef cooks in.
Flour Tortillas: Soft, pliable flour tortillas are the classic choice for burritos, providing the perfect vessel for our flavorful beef filling. Their flexibility makes them easy to wrap. If you prefer, corn tortillas can also be used, especially if you’re aiming for a different texture or have dietary preferences.
Toppings of Choice: This is where you can truly make the burrito your own! Popular choices include shredded cheddar cheese, thinly sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, a dollop of cool sour cream, vibrant pico de gallo, or tangy pickled red onions. Don’t be shy – experiment with your favorite Mexican-inspired additions to customize your ultimate shredded beef burrito!

Simple Steps to Making Slow-Cooked Shredded Beef Burritos

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its straightforward preparation. These incredibly easy shredded beef burritos come together with minimal effort, making them perfect for even the busiest days. You’ll be amazed at how such simple steps lead to such profound flavors.

Step 1: Combine Ingredients. Begin by placing your beef chuck roast into the crock pot. Then, simply “dump” the Rotel tomatoes (undrained), beef bouillon granules, sliced onions, and diced green chilies (undrained) directly over the top of the roast. Ensure the ingredients are somewhat distributed around the beef, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it cooks.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection. Cover your crock pot securely and set it to cook. You have two convenient options: cook on high for approximately 5 hours, or on low for about 8 hours. The crucial indicator of doneness is when the beef is incredibly tender and literally falls apart at the touch of a fork. This slow, gentle cooking process is key to achieving that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.

Step 3: Shred the Beef. Once the beef has reached that desirable fork-tender stage, carefully remove it from the crock pot (or shred it directly in the pot if it’s large enough for easy maneuvering). Using two forks or specialized meat claws, shred the beef into succulent strands. Return the shredded beef to the crock pot, mixing it thoroughly with the rich, flavorful cooking liquids. This ensures the beef stays moist, tender, and deeply infused with flavor. Keep it on a “warm” setting until you’re ready to serve, allowing the flavors to continue developing.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burritos. To ensure your tortillas are pliable and easy to wrap without tearing, steam them briefly. This can be done in a microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel), on a lightly oiled griddle, or in a steamer basket. Warm tortillas are much easier to work with. Spoon a generous amount of the warm, flavorful shredded beef into the center of each tortilla, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, burrito-style. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, or enjoy them as is, letting the robust beef flavor take center stage in a simple, satisfying meal.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips:

This shredded beef is fantastic for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals with minimal effort throughout the week. Leftover beef will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, transfer the cooked beef and a little bit of its juices to a freezer bag or freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s best to store and freeze the meat on its own rather than freezing assembled burritos, as the tortillas can become soggy upon thawing. Flour tortillas can be frozen separately and then warmed when ready to use, maintaining their ideal texture.

Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!

If you’re as excited about this slow cooker Mexican shredded beef recipe as I am, make sure you save it for future reference! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever those irresistible burrito cravings strike. Don’t let this amazing recipe get lost in your feed!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Burrito Filling

Here are some common questions to help you get the most out of your slow-cooked shredded beef, ensuring every meal is a success:

What cut of beef is good for burritos? For the most tender and flavorful results, beef chuck roast is an excellent choice. Its marbling and structure make it ideal for slow cooking and shredding, as the fat renders down to keep the meat moist. Flank steak can also be used, though it might require slightly different cooking times and care to achieve maximum tenderness without drying out.
What kind of beef is best for shredding? Chuck roast reigns supreme for shredding. Its intramuscular fat renders down beautifully during the slow cooking process, resulting in incredibly moist, easy-to-shred beef that’s packed with flavor. Other cuts like brisket or even pork shoulder can also be used for shredding, offering slight variations in taste and texture, but chuck roast is consistently a winner for this application.
How do you keep shredded beef from drying out? The slow cooking method itself is the primary way to prevent the beef from drying out. Cooking it low and slow in ample liquid allows the connective tissues to break down, retaining moisture and flavor. Additionally, returning the shredded beef to the cooking liquids after shredding ensures it remains succulent and juicy until serving time. If reheating leftovers, adding a splash of beef broth can help maintain moisture.
Can I make this recipe spicier? Absolutely! To add more heat, choose “hot” Rotel tomatoes, add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the crock pot with the other ingredients, or stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce after shredding the beef.

Creative Substitutions & Variations for Your Shredded Beef

Don’t be afraid to experiment and personalize this recipe to perfectly suit your taste and dietary preferences. Making it your own is part of the fun, and this versatile shredded beef lends itself beautifully to various culinary explorations!

This incredibly versatile beef isn’t just for burritos; it makes an excellent filling for beef tacos with crispy shells, or can be rolled into mouthwatering beef enchiladas and baked to cheesy perfection.
If beef isn’t your preference, feel free to substitute with chicken or turkey. Simply use an equivalent amount of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, or turkey breast, and adjust cooking time as needed until it’s fork-tender and easy to shred (typically less time than beef).
For a lighter, gluten-free, or carb-conscious option, transform this into delicious burrito bowls. Serve the flavorful shredded beef over a bed of Mexican Red Rice, refreshing Cilantro Lime Rice, or even riced cauliflower instead of wrapping it in a tortilla. Add all your favorite toppings for a complete and satisfying meal.
Got a craving for nachos? This beef is perfect! Pile this savory beef on top of crispy corn chips, generously add shredded cheese, and bake until melted and bubbly. Finish with your favorite nacho toppings like jalapeños, salsa, and sour cream for a loaded, irresistible plate.
Instead of Rotel tomatoes, you can use plain diced tomatoes or tomato sauce. If you do, make sure to add extra seasonings like chili powder, ground cumin, a pinch of oregano, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to replicate the chili-infused flavor profile that Rotel provides.

Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect Shredded Beef Burritos

Elevate your shredded beef burrito experience and ensure consistently delicious results with these helpful tips and tricks, straight from my kitchen to yours:

Serve this delicious slow cooker Mexican shredded beef alongside a classic side dish like creamy refried beans or hearty black beans to complete your traditional Mexican meal. A simple side of Mexican rice also pairs wonderfully.
Customize the flavor profile by stirring in additional spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, or a pinch of Mexican oregano during the last hour of cooking. For a richer, more complex taste, consider using a good quality enchilada sauce in place of some of the Rotel tomatoes and their liquid.
A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the shredded beef just before serving can brighten all the flavors, add a zesty tang, and impart a more authentic, vibrant Mexican touch to your burritos.
Always remember to steam or warm your flour tortillas! Warm, pliable tortillas are significantly easier to work with, preventing tears and making it simple to roll a neat, tight, and professional-looking burrito. Cold tortillas are prone to cracking.
In a hurry? While the slow cooker provides unparalleled tenderness and hands-off ease, you can significantly cut down on cooking time by preparing this Mexican beef recipe in an Instant Pot. Follow similar steps for combining ingredients, then pressure cook on high for approximately 60-75 minutes (depending on the size of your roast), followed by a natural pressure release.

Discover More Delicious Mexican-Inspired Recipes

Mexican food holds a special place in my heart, and I’m delighted to share a treasure trove of Mexican recipes with you. Whether you’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo, indulging in Taco Tuesday, or simply craving vibrant flavors on any given day, you’ll find something to love. Some of my personal favorites include my Copy Cat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Recipe, the irresistibly creamy Mexican Bean Dip and Mexican Layered Bean Dip, and of course, the wonderfully aromatic Slow Cooker Cilantro Lime Pork (as pictured above). Dive in and explore the rich and diverse world of Mexican flavors!

Shredded beef burrito ingredients laid out on a table with a finished burrito in the foreground.

So, with this recipe, the only thing truly missing from the experience is the incredible atmosphere of Mission Beach, especially the soothing sound and refreshing smell of the ocean.

Ah…. Roberto’s at Mission Beach, I eagerly await our next reunion. But until then, I’ll happily satisfy my cravings with these homemade, incredibly delicious Crock Pot Shredded Beef Burritos. They’re a true taste of California comfort, no matter where you are.

If your heart beats for Mexican cuisine, you are absolutely going to adore this incredibly simple yet profoundly flavorful recipe for slow cooker beef burritos. The combination of perfectly seasoned, tender shredded beef, tucked into a warm, soft tortilla, makes for an unbelievably quick, easy, and satisfying dinner. Please give it a try, and don’t hesitate to leave a comment below to let me know what you think – your feedback is always appreciated!

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A shredded beef burrito opened so you can see the inside, showing the tender beef filling.

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Print Recipe

Crock Pot Shredded Beef Burritos

This recipe for Crock Pot Shredded Beef Burritos features a tender chuck roast, slow-cooked to perfection with Rotel tomatoes, green chilies, and onions. The result is flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth shredded beef, ideal for crafting delicious burritos with your preferred toppings. It’s a taste of authentic Southern California Mexican food, made easy in your own kitchen!

Prep Time5 minutes

Cook Time6 hours

Total Time6 hours

Course: Main Dish, Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican, American

Keyword: burritos, chuck roast, Crock Pot Shredded Beef Burritos, shredded beef, slow cooker, easy dinner, Mexican food

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 511kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Crock-Pot Cook & Carry 6-Quart Oval Portable Manual Slow Cooker
Pulled Pork Shredder Claws
12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

4 pound beef chuck roast
1 10 ounce can Rotel tomatoes any “heat” you choose, undrained
1 4 ounce can diced green chilies, undrained
1 large onion sliced (white or yellow)
2 Tablespoons beef bouillon granules
8 flour tortillas burrito sized, warmed
toppings of choice e.g., cheese, lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo

Instructions

Place the beef chuck roast into your crock pot. Pour the undrained Rotel tomatoes and diced green chilies over the roast, then add the sliced onions and beef bouillon granules.
Cover the crock pot and cook on high for 5 hours, or on low for 8 hours, until the meat is incredibly tender and easily falls apart when shredded with a fork.
Carefully remove the cooked beef and shred it using two forks or meat claws. Return the shredded beef to the crock pot and stir it into the flavorful cooking liquid to keep it moist and delicious. Keep on warm setting until ready to assemble.
Warm your flour tortillas (by steaming or microwaving) until pliable. Spoon a generous amount of the shredded beef into each tortilla, then fold and wrap burrito style. Serve immediately with your preferred toppings, or enjoy plain to savor the rich beef flavor!

Notes

For maximum flavor and moisture, it is crucial not to drain the liquid from the Rotel tomatoes or the diced green chilies before adding them to the crock pot. This liquid is essential for slow-cooking the beef to perfection and creating a rich sauce.

Nutrition

This recipe was originally posted on September 1, 2011. It has been thoroughly updated and re-optimized to enhance user experience and culinary delight, and reshared on March 29, 2024. The timeless appeal of these slow cooker beef burritos continues to make them a family favorite for easy, flavorful meals.