Introduction

Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the rich taste of beef and the tangy goodness of barbecue sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy tender, fall-apart brisket, enhanced by the slow cooking process that allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Ideal for family gatherings or meal prep, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Beef brisket (about 3-4 pounds)
– Salt (to taste)
– Black pepper (to taste)
– Garlic powder (2 teaspoons)
– Onion powder (2 teaspoons)
– Paprika (1 teaspoon)
– Barbecue sauce (2 cups)
– Beef broth (1 cup)
– Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons)
– Optional: sliced onions and garlic cloves for extra flavor

Prep Time

Preparation for this delicious dish takes approximately 15-20 minutes. During this time, you will season the brisket and prepare the other ingredients for the slow cooker.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for this slow cooker brisket is about 8-10 hours on low heat. When you combine the prep time with the cooking time, the total time comes to around 8 hours and 20 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, perfect for a gathering or meal prep for the week ahead.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

1. Prepare the Brisket

Start by trimming excess fat from the beef brisket. This will help prevent the dish from being overly greasy during cooking.

2. Season the Brisket

Generously season the brisket on all sides with salt and black pepper. You can also add any additional spices you prefer at this stage.

3. Sear the Brisket

In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it develops a nice brown crust. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.

4. Prepare the Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared brisket to the slow cooker. Pour in your choice of BBQ sauce, ensuring the brisket is well-coated.

5. Add Ingredients

Optional: You can add sliced onions, minced garlic, and other vegetables at this point for extra flavor and texture.

6. Cooking Time

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The brisket should be tender and easily shred with a fork when done.

7. Resting the Brisket

Once cooked, remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.

8. Serving Suggestions

Slice the brisket against the grain and serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side. Pair with buns or your favorite sides.

Notes

1. Choosing the Brisket

Look for well-marbled brisket, which will result in a juicier final dish.

2. BBQ Sauce

Feel free to use your preferred BBQ sauce. Homemade or store-bought can work well, depending on your taste preference.

3. Leftovers

Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

4. Freezing

Brisket can be frozen for further use. Ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and consume within 3 months for best results.

5. Adjusting Flavor

You can modify the seasonings and additional ingredients based on your personal taste to create your desired flavor profile.

Cook techniques

Searing the Brisket

Searing the brisket before cooking helps to develop a rich flavor and adds a beautiful color. Make sure to heat the pan adequately and allow the meat to form a crust before flipping.

Slow Cooking

The key to tender and flavorful brisket is slow cooking. Using a slow cooker allows for a gradual cooking process that breaks down the tough fibers in the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Use of BBQ Sauce

Adding BBQ sauce to the brisket enhances its flavor. You can either mix it with the meat beforehand or use it as a glaze towards the end of cooking for a sticky finish.

Resting the Meat

After cooking, it’s important to let the brisket rest. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful when sliced.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, other cuts like chuck roast can work, but they may have different cooking times and textures.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I cook this in an oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can braise the brisket in the oven at a low temperature. Ensure it’s covered and check for tenderness as it cooks.

What side dishes go well with brisket?

Brisket pairs well with coleslaw, potato salad, or cornbread for a classic BBQ experience.

Is it necessary to trim the fat off the brisket?

Trimming some fat is recommended to prevent the brisket from being overly greasy, but leaving some fat can enhance flavor and moisture.

Conclusion

Savoring the rich flavors of slow-cooked beef brisket with BBQ sauce provides a comforting and satisfying meal experience. The ease of preparation in a slow cooker makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you have a delicious dish that everyone will love.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Sides

Roasted seasonal vegetables or sautéed greens, like collard greens or spinach, complement the robust flavor of brisket beautifully.

Classic Coleslaw

A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of BBQ brisket, making it a perfect side dish.

Beef Brisket Tacos

Utilize leftover brisket by shredding it for tacos, topped with fresh salsa, avocado, and lime for a delicious twist.

Brisket Sandwiches

Serve the brisket in a sandwich on a soft roll, paired with pickles and extra BBQ sauce for a hearty lunch.

Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy macaroni and cheese can be a wonderful accompaniment to brisket, providing comfort and indulgence in every bite.

BBQ Baked Beans

Sweet and smoky baked beans enhance the meal with their flavor profile, making them a classic pairing with BBQ.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Rich and creamy garlic mashed potatoes make a perfect base for the sliced brisket, soaking up all the delicious juices.