Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket is a tender, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Cooking the brisket in the slow cooker ensures it turns out juicy and falls apart with ease. Infused with a rich BBQ sauce, this brisket is full of smoky, tangy flavor that makes it a true comfort food favorite. Serve it with classic sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for an easy way to prepare tender, juicy BBQ beef brisket without the need for a smoker, this Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket recipe is the perfect solution. The slow cooker makes it easy to cook the brisket to perfection, while the BBQ sauce infuses the meat with rich, smoky flavor. This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd and makes for great leftovers.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a family gathering, or simply want a comforting meal, this BBQ beef brisket is sure to be a hit. The best part? The slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with a melt-in-your-mouth brisket that’s full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 3-4 lb beef brisket
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Brisket
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to cover all sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Place the seasoned brisket in the slow cooker, fat side up.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the brisket.
Step 3: Cook the Brisket
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the brisket is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Once the brisket is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the brisket against the grain and serve with the sauce from the slow cooker.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Fat Side Up: Placing the brisket fat side up in the slow cooker allows the fat to melt into the meat as it cooks, keeping it juicy and tender.
- Resting Time: Letting the brisket rest before slicing helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy. You can also make your own homemade BBQ sauce if preferred.
Variations
- Spicy BBQ Brisket: Add extra cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicier version.
- Honey BBQ Brisket: Replace the brown sugar with honey for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce mixture for an extra smoky flavor without using a smoker.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use a Larger Brisket?
Yes, you can use a larger brisket, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. A larger brisket will require a longer cooking time to become tender.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Cooked Brisket?
Yes, you can freeze cooked brisket. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Can I Make This Recipe in an Oven Instead of a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can cook the brisket in an oven. Place the brisket in a roasting pan, cover with the sauce, and cook at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve the brisket with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious BBQ sauce.
- Coleslaw: Pair with a side of coleslaw for a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich brisket.
- Sandwiches: Use leftover brisket to make BBQ beef sandwiches with crusty rolls or hamburger buns.
- Cornbread: Serve with warm cornbread for a classic BBQ-style meal.
Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket is an easy, flavorful way to enjoy tender, juicy brisket without the need for a smoker. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a deliciously tender brisket infused with rich BBQ flavors. Whether served with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or on a sandwich, this BBQ brisket is sure to become a favorite in your home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting taste of slow-cooked BBQ brisket!