Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Taco Beef – Effortless, Flavorful, and Perfect for Taco Night
This Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Taco Beef is the ultimate weeknight time-saver — rich, tender, and bursting with authentic taco flavor. With just three simple ingredients, this recipe delivers all the deliciousness of traditional taco beef without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, giving you perfectly seasoned, melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s ready for tacos, burritos, salads, or nachos.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)
- 1 cup salsa
Directions
Step 1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the beef chuck roast in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 2. Add the Seasoning and Salsa
Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the beef, then pour the salsa over the top.
Step 3. Cook the Beef
Cover and cook on LOW for about 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
Step 4. Shred and Mix
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the beef directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded meat into the juices to coat it fully in the flavorful sauce.
Step 5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the shredded taco beef in warm tortillas, tacos, burritos, or even taco salads. Garnish with your favorite toppings such as cheese, lettuce, sour cream, or guacamole.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker taco beef pairs wonderfully with Mexican rice, refried beans, or corn salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips and salsa for a fun and festive meal. Add a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh finishing touch.
Variations & Tips
- For a spicy kick, use hot salsa or add a chopped jalapeño before cooking.
- Try different salsa varieties like smoky chipotle or tangy tomatillo for unique flavors.
- Substitute chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner protein option.
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste or a splash of beef broth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days — perfect for meal prep!
Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Taco Beef Recipe
Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 8 hrs (Low) | Total Time: 8 hrs 5 mins
Yield: 6 servings | Course: Main Dish | Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz)
- 1 cup salsa
Instructions
- Place beef chuck roast in slow cooker.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over beef and pour salsa on top.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours, until tender.
- Shred beef with two forks and stir into juices.
- Serve in tacos, burritos, or over rice with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tip: Use leftovers to make taco bowls, quesadillas, or stuffed baked potatoes for quick lunches!