This Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket is the epitome of comfort food, with tender beef drenched in a rich, smoky BBQ sauce. The long cooking time in the slow cooker ensures that the brisket becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, making it perfect for a satisfying meal.
The dish is versatile, whether served on soft buns as a sandwich or plated with mashed potatoes and coleslaw for a full BBQ experience. With its rich flavors, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser for BBQ lovers and family dinners alike.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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3-4 lb beef brisket
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1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce
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1/4 cup beef broth
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1/2 cup onion, sliced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Season the brisket generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
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Place the brisket in the slow cooker and top with sliced onions and garlic.
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Pour the BBQ sauce and beef broth over the brisket.
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Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the brisket is tender and easily shredded.
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Once cooked, remove the brisket from the slow cooker and shred with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the sauce and stir to combine.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 8-10 hours | Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Origin of BBQ Beef Brisket
BBQ beef brisket has roots in Texas, where it is a staple in the state’s culinary scene. The long, slow cooking process breaks down the tough fibers of the brisket, resulting in a tender, flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Traditionally, BBQ brisket is made by slow-smoking the meat over wood chips, but this slow cooker version offers a convenient alternative without compromising the rich flavors that BBQ enthusiasts crave. The beauty of this recipe is that it captures the essence of traditional BBQ brisket while making it accessible for everyday cooks.
Why This Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe is the Best
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it allows you to enjoy the amazing flavors of BBQ brisket without having to spend hours tending to a smoker or grill. The slow cooker does all the work for you, leaving you with a juicy, tender brisket that’s full of flavor.
Another advantage of using a slow cooker is the ability to infuse the beef with a rich combination of seasonings. The smoky paprika, cumin, and chili powder give the brisket a deep, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of BBQ sauce. With this recipe, you get the perfect balance of smokiness, spice, and sweetness in every bite.
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it on a sandwich, as a taco filling, or as a main course with your favorite sides, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. You can even use leftovers in other dishes like beef nachos, quesadillas, or a hearty beef stew. This makes it a great option for meal prep or large family gatherings.
Health Benefits of BBQ Beef Brisket
While BBQ beef brisket may not be the first dish that comes to mind when you think about healthy eating, it does offer several nutritional benefits. Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also rich in iron, which is important for red blood cell production, and B vitamins, which help support metabolism and energy production.
In addition to protein, beef brisket provides a good amount of zinc, a mineral that is crucial for a healthy immune system. When cooked slowly, the beef becomes incredibly tender, which makes it easier to digest. While this dish is rich in flavor, it’s important to balance it with healthy side dishes, such as a salad or roasted vegetables, to create a well-rounded meal.
The Magic of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is an incredibly convenient and foolproof method for preparing meats like beef brisket. The beauty of a slow cooker is that it allows you to walk away and let the appliance work its magic, ensuring a perfectly cooked dish every time. The low and slow process allows the flavors to meld together, making the meat tender and flavorful. It’s also a great way to save time while ensuring that dinner is ready by the end of the day.
In the case of this BBQ beef brisket, the slow cooker ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender, as the long cooking time helps break down the connective tissues in the brisket. The BBQ sauce and broth soak into the meat, making it incredibly flavorful. Because the slow cooker locks in moisture, you don’t have to worry about the brisket drying out or becoming tough, even if you cook it for several hours.
How to Serve BBQ Beef Brisket
There are countless ways to serve BBQ beef brisket, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Here are some ideas:
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On a Bun: One of the most popular ways to serve BBQ beef brisket is on a soft sandwich bun. Pile the tender beef onto the bun and top it with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite BBQ sauce for a classic BBQ sandwich.
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With Sides: Serve the brisket alongside classic BBQ sides like baked beans, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
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In Tacos: Use the shredded brisket as a filling for soft tacos. Add some fresh salsa, guacamole, and cilantro for a delicious taco night option.
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Over Rice: Serve the brisket with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa for a heartier meal.
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On a Salad: For a lighter option, top a fresh salad with the tender BBQ brisket, making for a satisfying and flavorful salad.
BBQ Beef Brisket for Every Occasion
This recipe is perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual family dinners to more elaborate gatherings. The slow cooker makes it an ideal choice for meal prepping, as it requires little active cooking time. You can also prepare it ahead of time and let it sit in the slow cooker for hours, making it great for parties or potlucks. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a delicious, hearty meal, BBQ beef brisket is sure to please.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket
To ensure your BBQ beef brisket turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
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Choose the Right Cut: For the best results, use a beef brisket that is well-marbled with fat. This fat will render down during the slow cooking process, helping to keep the meat juicy and tender.
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Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! The spices used in this recipe add layers of flavor to the brisket, so make sure to coat the meat evenly before cooking.
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Avoid Overcooking: While the slow cooker is a set-it-and-forget-it kind of appliance, be sure to check the brisket at the 8-hour mark to see if it’s tender. Overcooking can cause the meat to become dry, so it’s important to stop cooking as soon as the brisket is fork-tender.
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Shred and Rest: Once the brisket is done cooking, let it rest for 10 minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket is an easy, flavorful dish that brings together tender beef and smoky BBQ sauce with minimal effort. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a BBQ party or just enjoying a hearty meal at home. The slow cooking process ensures that the beef remains juicy and full of flavor, making this recipe a winner every time. With its versatility and convenience, this slow cooker BBQ beef brisket will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for busy nights or family gatherings.