Barbecue Beef Sandwiches with Aioli

Name: Barbecue Beef Sandwiches with Aioli
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 brioche rolls; Sliced pickles (optional); Coleslaw (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats

I can't get enough of these Barbecue Beef Sandwiches with Aioli! There's something so satisfying about the combination of tender, flavorful beef and a creamy, zesty aioli. We’ve perfected the balance of sweet and smoky barbecue sauce that truly complements the richness of the meat. Every bite is an explosion of flavor, making it my go-to recipe for gatherings or lazy weekends. Whether served at a picnic or a family dinner, these sandwiches are guaranteed to impress everyone.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:21:04.874Z

When I first tried my hand at making barbecue beef sandwiches, I was surprised by how easy it was to create a dish that rivals anything you'd find at a restaurant. The secret lies in slow-cooking the beef until it's tender and infused with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. Each step of the cooking process enhances the flavors and creates a satisfying dish that's sure to please.

And let's not forget the aioli! It adds a delightful creaminess with a hint of garlic that elevates the whole experience. I found that letting it sit for even a few minutes before assembling the sandwiches allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tender, slow-cooked beef that melts in your mouth
Zesty aioli adds a creamy texture and depth of flavor
Perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying with family

Unlocking Flavor with Cooking Techniques

To achieve the most tender and flavorful beef, opt for cooking the chuck roast slowly. This cut of beef is well-marbled and benefits from low and slow cooking, which breaks down the connective tissues and infuses the meat with the barbecue sauce's rich flavors. Make sure the slow cooker is set to low for a minimum of six hours; this ensures the beef is fall-apart tender. If time allows, extending to eight hours yields even deeper flavor.

One key to great flavor is selecting the right barbecue sauce. Look for a sauce that balances sweetness and acidity to elevate the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, you can make your own barbecue sauce by combining ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices. When cooking, the sauce should bubble gently around the edges of the slow cooker—this indicates it's infusing flavor into the meat.

Aioli: The Perfect Complement

When preparing the aioli, make sure to grate or mince the garlic finely to infuse its flavor evenly throughout the sauce. Allowing the aioli to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. This resting period can enhance the mildness of the garlic, resulting in a balanced creaminess that won't overpower the barbecue beef.

For a unique twist, consider adding herbs like dill or basil to your aioli. These additions can elevate the flavor profile significantly, making the sauce even more refreshing against the rich beef. Experimenting with different citrus juices, such as lime or orange, can also provide a delightful zing to the aioli, adding a refreshing balance to your sandwich.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Traditional accompaniments for barbecue beef sandwiches often include pickles and creamy coleslaw. The crunch of the pickles adds texture and a tangy contrast, while the coleslaw provides a fresh, cooling balance to the hearty beef. For a fun variation, swap coleslaw for a spicy jalapeño slaw for added heat, or use shredded carrots and radishes for a vibrant, crunchy alternative.

If you're looking to make this recipe ahead of time, the cooked beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce if it seems dry. The aioli can be prepared a day in advance as well, making this a convenient option for gatherings. Simply store both components separately and assemble right before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect barbecue beef sandwiches!

For the Barbecue Beef

2 lbs beef chuck roast
1 cup barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

4 brioche rolls
Sliced pickles (optional)
Coleslaw (optional)

Now that you have all your ingredients, it's time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for delicious, homemade barbecue beef sandwiches.

Prepare the Beef

Season the beef chuck roast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place it in a slow cooker and pour the barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce over the top. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.

Make the Aioli

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Shred the Beef

Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the barbecue sauce in the slow cooker and stir to combine.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Cut the brioche rolls in half and toast them if desired. Layer the shredded barbecue beef on the bottom half of each roll, top with aioli, and add pickles or coleslaw if using. Place the top half of the roll on and serve!

Enjoy your homemade barbecue beef sandwiches!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the beef soak in the barbecue sauce overnight before cooking. This can really enhance the taste and tenderness of the meat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

For optimal freshness, store leftover barbecue beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in individual portions. Just make sure to use freezer-safe bags or containers, and consume it within three months for the best flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture and taste.

When reheating the beef, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying it out. Adding a splash of beef broth or a little extra barbecue sauce can help revive its juiciness. If using a microwave, cover the beef with a damp paper towel to trap moisture, heating it in short intervals to ensure it warms evenly without becoming tough.

Scaling and Substitutions

If you're planning a larger gathering, this recipe can easily be scaled up. Simply increase the amount of beef and sauces proportionally and use a larger slow cooker or multiple units to accommodate all the meat. A standard rule is adding approximately 50% more barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce for every extra pound of beef, maintaining the seasoning balance for optimal flavor.

For a lighter alternative, you can substitute the beef with chicken thighs or turkey, which will also absorb the barbecue sauce's flavors well. Cook the chicken for a similar duration in the slow cooker, but be mindful that poultry cooks faster; check for doneness around the 4-5 hour mark to prevent overcooking.

Creative Ways to Serve

Apart from traditional brioche rolls, consider using cornbread or even lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option. Cornbread adds a hint of sweetness and pairs well with barbecue flavors. If going low-carb, a hearty romaine lettuce leaf can serve as a great wrap for the beef and aioli, perfect for those looking to reduce carb intake without sacrificing flavor.

You might also serve the barbecue beef as a topping for baked potatoes or even on nachos, drizzling the aioli on top for a creative twist. These alternative serving styles provide a fun way to showcase the beef at parties, letting guests enjoy it in various formats while accentuating its delectable flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or short ribs, but remember that cooking times may vary.

→ Can I make the aioli in advance?

Absolutely! The aioli can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?

Popular sides include coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.