Slow-Cooker Shredded Beef Lettuce Cups

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect mix of hearty and refreshing. The slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with melt-in-your-mouth beef infused with Asian-inspired flavors. The crushed pineapple adds natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with soy sauce and vinegar, while the crisp lettuce cups provide a light, crunchy base. It’s versatile, healthy, and easy to prepare ahead of time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 boneless beef chuck roast (2 pounds)
3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
2 medium sweet red peppers, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1 can (8 ounces) unsweetened crushed pineapple, undrained
1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons water
24 Bibb or Boston lettuce leaves
Sliced green onions, optional

Directions

1. Place the chuck roast, carrots, peppers, onion, pineapple with juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic, and pepper in a slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on low for 8–9 hours or until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
3. Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the beef to the slow cooker.
4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir into the slow cooker and cook on high for 15–20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
5. Spoon the shredded beef mixture into lettuce leaves and garnish with sliced green onions, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings (3 lettuce cups per serving).
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 8–9 hours (low)
Total time: 8 hours 20 minutes–9 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Add water chestnuts or bean sprouts for extra crunch.
• Use romaine or iceberg lettuce if Bibb or Boston lettuce isn’t available.
• Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili sauce for some heat.
• Serve the shredded beef over rice or noodles instead of lettuce cups for a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover shredded beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. The lettuce leaves should be stored separately and assembled fresh when serving. For longer storage, freeze the shredded beef (without lettuce) in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 4–5 hours, though low and slow gives more tender results.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, brisket or round roast can be used, but chuck roast is ideal for shredding.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, add chili flakes, sriracha, or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.

What kind of lettuce works best?

Bibb or Boston lettuce is preferred, but romaine or iceberg also works well.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook and shred the beef a day ahead and reheat before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I make this recipe without pineapple?

Yes, you can omit pineapple and replace it with a splash of orange juice for sweetness.

What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed rice, Asian slaw, or stir-fried vegetables pair nicely.

Can I freeze the cooked beef?

Yes, shredded beef freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in freezer bags in portion sizes for easy reheating.

How do I keep the lettuce cups from breaking?

Use sturdy leaves, and double up layers if needed to hold the filling.

Conclusion

Slow-Cooker Shredded Beef Lettuce Cups are a fresh, easy, and crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender shredded beef with sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings, this recipe offers a healthier twist by using lettuce wraps instead of bread, keeping the meal light yet flavorful. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a regular favorite.

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