Name: Slow Cooker Beef Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck roast; 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; Juice of 1 lime; Corn or whole wheat tortillas; Toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, cilantro, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese

Slow Cooker Beef Tacos are a healthy and flavorful dinner idea perfect for busy nights. This dish combines tender, slow-cooked beef infused with aromatic spices and fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that is easy to prepare, full of nutrients, and customizable for any dietary preference.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Choose the right cut: Use beef chuck roast or brisket for the best flavor and tenderness.
Pre-browning optional: Sear the beef before adding it to the slow cooker for an added depth of flavor.
Use homemade taco seasoning: Skip store-bought mixes; a homemade blend is fresher and has less sodium.
Layer flavors: Add a splash of lime juice at the end of cooking to brighten up the flavors.
Control spiciness: Adjust the chili powder or cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
Meal prep friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick dinner solution.
Fresh toppings: Use vibrant, fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, red onion, and a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Beef Taco recipe is a game-changer for busy households. It’s incredibly easy to prepare; just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. The result is melt-in-your-mouth, flavorful beef packed with protein and essential nutrients. It’s versatile, allowing you to adjust the spices, toppings, and tortillas to fit any preference or dietary need. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a taco night with friends, this recipe offers a delicious, low-maintenance meal option that everyone will enjoy. Plus, with minimal prep and cleanup, you’ll have more time to savor your dinner and less time spent in the kitchen.

Yield: Serves 6

Slow Cooker Beef Tacos

Healthy, tender Slow Cooker Beef Tacos packed with flavor and fresh toppings—a perfect, stress-free dinner option for busy nights.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck roast
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lime
Corn or whole wheat tortillas
Toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, cilantro, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Trim excess fat from the beef and cut it into large chunks. Season with salt and pepper.
Sear the Beef (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Add Aromatics and Sauce: Add diced onion, garlic, tomato sauce, beef broth, and taco seasoning to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cook the Beef: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir in lime juice. Let it soak in the juices for 10 minutes.
Assemble Tacos: Warm the tortillas, then fill with shredded beef and your favorite toppings.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve tacos with lime wedges on the side for extra zest.

Notes

Warming tortillas on a dry skillet enhances their flavor and texture.
Serve with a side of Mexican rice or black beans for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 566Total Fat 36gSaturated Fat 12gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 21gCholesterol 132mgSodium 1132mgCarbohydrates 19gFiber 6gSugar 6gProtein 45g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Beef Chuck Roast: A tender, fatty cut that shreds beautifully after slow cooking. Trim excess fat for a leaner option.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and a savory base to the dish.
Tomato Sauce: Creates a rich, saucy base for the beef. Use low-sodium if watching your salt intake.
Beef Broth: Enhances the savory flavors. Opt for low-sodium or homemade for better control of seasonings.
Taco Seasoning: A blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper for bold flavor.
Lime Juice: Brightens the dish and balances the richness of the beef.
Tortillas: Choose corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or whole wheat for added fiber.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Substitutes: Swap beef for chicken thighs, pork shoulder, or turkey for a leaner option.
Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with jackfruit or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based alternative.
Spice Level: Add chipotle peppers in adobo for smoky heat or reduce chili powder for mild flavor.
Toppings: Use dairy-free cheese or avocado crema for a vegan option, or add pineapple salsa for a tropical twist.
Tortillas: Use lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas for a keto-friendly version.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezer: Freeze shredded beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Meal Prep: Portion beef into individual containers with toppings for quick lunches throughout the week.