Campfire Cowboy Sammies
These Campfire Cowboy Sammies are everything you want in an easy comfort meal—savory roast beef, melty cheese, buttery rolls, and a flavorful au jus for dipping. Whether you're feeding your family on a busy weeknight, hosting friends for game day, or packing dinner for the campsite, this recipe comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
No Sweat Summer Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Easy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Family Friendly
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Leftovers
⭐⭐⭐ Budget Friendly
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 Hours
Servings: 6–8
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ready with just a handful of ingredients
Perfect for camping, tailgating, or weeknight dinners
Great for feeding a crowd
Easy to prep ahead
Kid and adult approved
Ingredients
2-3 pound chuck roast
2 cups bbq sauce
1 package pre-cooked bacon (you can use uncooked too!)
1 small sliced onion
2-3 TBS Worcestershire sauce
3 cloves minced garlic
¼ cup brown sugar
4 ounce can diced jalapenos
Sliced colby jack or pepper jack cheese
6 Buns
Crispy fried onions, pickles
Instructions
Into the slow cooker add beef, bbq sauce, half of the bacon, onion, Worcheshire sauce, garlic, brown sugar and half of the jalapenos.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours until the meat falls apart with a fork. Shred the beef using 2 forks.
Drain most of the liquid from the slow cooker. Or use a slotted spoon to serve.
Assemble your sandwiches. Place a slice of cheese down on your bun. Add the shredded beef. Top with the leftover bacon, jalapenos and crispy onions.
Michelle's Tip ❤️
Don't skip the crispy fried onions! They add the perfect crunch to balance the tender BBQ beef and melty cheese, making every bite packed with flavor.
What to Serve with Campfire Cowboy Sammies
These sandwiches pair perfectly with:
Pineapple Coleslaw
Baked beans
Corn on the cob
Pasta salad
Potato wedges
Watermelon
Kettle chips
Storage
Store leftover shredded beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of BBQ sauce if needed.
Reheating
Microwave for 2–3 minutes, or warm in the air fryer at 350°F until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another cut of beef?
Yes! A rump roast or bottom round roast will also work, though chuck roast gives the most tender, juicy results.
Can I use uncooked bacon?
Absolutely. It will cook right in the slow cooker alongside the beef. For crispier bacon, cook it separately and use it as a topping.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! The shredded beef tastes even better the next day. Simply reheat and assemble the sandwiches when you're ready to serve.
