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Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce

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When it comes to hearty, flavorful, and melt-in-your-mouth comfort food, Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce is a winner. This recipe combines the smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue with the tenderness of slow-cooked beef, creating a dish that’s perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hands-Off Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work while you focus on other tasks.
  • Rich and Tender: Slow cooking ensures the brisket is juicy and fork-tender.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare in large batches.
  • Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, in sandwiches, or as part of a BBQ platter.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

For the Brisket:

  • 3-4 lbs beef brisket
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Dry Rub:

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the BBQ Sauce:

  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

  1. Pat the brisket dry with paper towels and rub it generously with the dry rub mixture.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This locks in the flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

  1. In the slow cooker, combine barbecue sauce, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and honey. Stir well to create the sauce.
  2. Place the seared brisket into the slow cooker, fat side up, and spoon some sauce over the top.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Brisket

  1. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours until the brisket is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

Step 4: Glaze with BBQ Sauce

  1. Preheat your oven to broil. Transfer the brisket to a baking sheet lined with foil.
  2. Brush the brisket generously with additional barbecue sauce. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the sauce is caramelized and sticky.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

  1. Let the brisket rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness.
  2. Serve with the remaining sauce on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce with:

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes to complement the rich BBQ flavors.
  • Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy side to balance the sweetness.
  • Cornbread: A classic BBQ accompaniment.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or corn on the cob.

Tips for Success

  • Choose the Right Cut: Look for a brisket with good marbling for extra tenderness.
  • Sear First: Browning the brisket before slow cooking enhances flavor.
  • Cook Low and Slow: For the most tender brisket, always opt for the low setting if time allows.
  • Let It Rest: Resting after cooking ensures the juices redistribute, making the meat juicier.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 195-205°F for perfectly tender brisket.

Variations to Try

  • Spicy Brisket: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a kick.
  • Smoky Flavor: Use liquid smoke or smoked salt for an authentic BBQ taste.
  • Sweet Twist: Mix in a bit of pineapple juice or maple syrup for a sweeter sauce.
  • Asian-Style Brisket: Swap BBQ sauce with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Place the brisket and sauce in a covered baking dish or Dutch oven and cook at 300°F for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally.

How do I store leftover brisket?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven with additional sauce.

Can I freeze cooked brisket?
Absolutely! Slice the brisket and store it with sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce—smoky, sweet, or tangy all work well. Homemade BBQ sauce is always a great option for a personalized flavor.

Can I skip searing the brisket?
While optional, searing adds depth of flavor and is highly recommended for the best results.

How do I know when the brisket is done?
The brisket should be tender enough to pull apart easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce is a showstopper that combines tender, flavorful meat with a perfectly balanced BBQ glaze. Ideal for family dinners, parties, or meal prep, it’s an effortless recipe that delivers mouthwatering results every time. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!

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