Easy Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa Recipe

Warm, Melty Flavors in 45 Minutes Flat? Yes, Please!

If you’ve been dreaming of tender, flavorful beef with just the right amount of spice, this Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa will be love at first bite. Inspired by traditional Mexican barbacoa but tailored to fit a busy lifestyle, this recipe brings all the richness of slow-cooked beef in a fraction of the time. It’s perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or served simply over rice. Trust me, your weeknight dinner game just got a serious upgrade!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Time-Saving: Tender, slow-cooked flavor in under an hour thanks to the magic of an Instant Pot.
• Customizable Spice Levels: Keep it mild or crank up the heat—it’s all up to you.
• Versatile Options: From tacos to enchiladas to salads, this barbacoa beef shines in so many dishes.
• Meal Prep Champion: Make a batch and freeze leftovers for easy meals later in the week.

Ingredients Breakdown

• **Beef Chuck Roast:** Opt for a well-marbled cut for maximum tenderness. You can substitute with brisket or even boneless short ribs if you like.
• **Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce:** These smoky, spicy peppers give the sauce its signature kick. Adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.
• **Broth:** Beef broth adds depth of flavor, but chicken broth or water with bouillon works in a pinch.
• **Garlic & Onion:** Fresh aromatics that elevate the flavor profile—don’t skip these!
• **Apple Cider Vinegar:** A splash of tanginess gives balance and brightens all the rich, savory flavors. Feel free to sub with white vinegar or lime juice.
• **Spices:** Don’t skimp on the cumin, oregano, and ground cloves—they’re the aromatics that give this dish its addictive depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Beef: Cut your beef chuck roast into large chunks for quicker and even cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Meat: Using the Sauté mode on your Instant Pot, heat a splash of oil and brown beef pieces on each side. This locks in flavor. Work in batches if needed. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add more oil if needed, then toss in chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Blend chipotle peppers, broth, apple cider vinegar, cumin, oregano, and a pinch of ground cloves in a blender until smooth. Pour over the sautéed onions in the pot.
5. Add the Beef Back: Return the seared beef chunks to the pot, ensuring they’re nestled in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption.
6. Pressure Cook: Cover, seal the vent, and pressure cook on high for 45 minutes. Allow for a 10-minute natural release before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Shred the Beef: Carefully remove the beef, shred with two forks, and then mix it back into the sauce for ultimate juiciness.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• **Better Browning:** When searing the beef, don’t overcrowd the pan. It ensures a nice crust on the beef chunks.
• **Adjust the Spice Level:** Use only half a chipotle pepper for a milder sauce or add an extra one if you love the heat!
• **Don’t Skip the Rest Time:** Let the beef sit in its sauce for a few minutes after shredding—it makes every bite more flavorful.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• **Switch up the protein:** Try this recipe with pork shoulder or even chicken thighs for a twist on traditional barbacoa.
• **Serving Inspiration:** Serve this barbacoa in tortillas for tacos, over cilantro lime rice for burrito bowls, or with roasted veggies for a low-carb option.
• **Toppings Galore:** Don’t skimp on the extras! Radishes, diced onion, crumbled queso fresco, and fresh cilantro are game-changers.

FAQs

• Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! The flavors develop even more after sitting. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• How do I reheat leftover barbacoa? Warm it gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it juicy.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Yep, just double-check your chipotle peppers and broth to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Printable Recipe

I can’t wait for you to try this Instant Pot Beef Barbacoa—it’s destined to be a new favorite! Share your creations by tagging me on social media with #TheKitchensAid. I’d love to see how you make it your own!