How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Barbacoa?

You need 17 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 3- to 4-pound) beef chuck roast, excess fat trimmed and cut into large pieces, 2 teaspoons salt, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 1/2 teaspoons ancho chile powder, and more.

Is Instant Pot Barbacoa suitable as meat & poultry?

Yes, Instant Pot Barbacoa falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover Instant Pot Barbacoa?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Instant Pot Barbacoa Recipe

Name: Instant Pot Barbacoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 3- to 4-pound) beef chuck roast, excess fat trimmed and cut into large pieces; 2 teaspoons salt; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 1/2 teaspoons ancho chile powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 2 tablespoons canola oil; 1 medium red onion, chopped; 6 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, finely chopped; 5 minced garlic cloves; 3 bay leaves; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; 1/2 cup low-sodium beef stock; 2 tablespoons tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar

""Remove the beef from the cooking liquid and place on a cutting board or rimmed baking pan. Use 2 forks to shred the beef. Serve warm with tortillas and toppings.""]"

This Instant Pot Barbacoa relies on simple, everyday ingredients such as salt, ground cumin, ancho chile powder and dried oregano. It comes together quickly and makes 4 servings, at about 360 kcal each. The step-by-step instructions below are written to be easy to follow, even on a busy day.

It's versatile enough for an easy weeknight dinner yet satisfying enough for guests at the weekend. Serve it with your favorite sides, and keep any leftovers for a quick meal the next day.

Updated Jun 30, 2026

Serves 4 Meat & Poultry

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

Saved locally in your browser — visible only to you.

Instant Pot Barbacoa

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions