This Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket is a true crowd-pleaser! With tender, juicy beef cooked low and slow, it’s packed with tasty flavors and fall-apart goodness.
Honestly, it’s so simple to make! Just throw in the brisket, add your favorite BBQ sauce, and let the slow cooker do the magic. I love serving it on buns for a delicious sandwich! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: Choose a well-marbled brisket for the best flavor and tenderness. If brisket isn’t available, chuck roast is a good alternative, though it may need slightly less cooking time.
Onion: Yellow onions are perfect here for their sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a sweet onion, or even shallots for a different twist.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand! If you’re watching sugar, consider a low-sugar barbecue sauce, or whip up a homemade version. A mix of ketchup and vinegar can work too for a quick substitute.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth, but if you don’t have it, soy sauce can work in a pinch. The flavors will change slightly but still taste wonderful!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Tender Brisket?
The secret to juicy, tender brisket is low and slow cooking. Use the slow cooker to your advantage by making sure to keep the temperature low and letting it cook for the full time. Here’s how:
- Season the brisket well before searing to lock in flavors.
- Don’t skip the searing step if you can; it enhances flavor!
- Let the brisket rest after cooking for at least 10 minutes so the juices redistribute.
- Slice against the grain to ensure tender bites!
Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Meat: 4 to 5 pounds beef brisket, trimmed
- Cooking Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Vegetables: 1 large onion, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Liquid: 1 cup beef broth
- BBQ Sauce: 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- Flavor Enhancers: 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Sweetener: 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Spices: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Spices: 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ brisket will take about 15-20 minutes of preparation time, followed by 8 to 10 hours in your slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day when you want a tasty dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Brisket:
Start by seasoning your brisket generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Make sure to coat every surface so it’s packed with flavor!
2. Searing the Brisket:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the brisket on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it.
3. Preparing the Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom. This bed of veggies will add even more flavor to the brisket as it cooks.
4. Combining Ingredients:
Now, take your seared brisket and lay it on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker.
5. Making the BBQ Sauce Mixture:
In a bowl, mix the beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar together. Pour this flavorful mixture over the brisket, covering it well.
6. Cooking the Brisket:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender. You can set it in the morning and come back to a delicious dinner!
7. Resting and Slicing:
Once the cooking is complete, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps retain the juices. When ready to serve, slice the brisket against the grain for the most tender bites.
8. Serving Suggestions:
If you’d like, you can spoon some of the cooking juices over the sliced brisket for extra moisture and flavor. Serve it with extra barbecue sauce, either on a plate or piled high in sandwiches.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful BBQ beef brisket! It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just a comforting meal at home!
FAQs for Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While brisket is ideal for low and slow cooking, you can also use a chuck roast or shoulder roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Searing the Brisket First?
Yes, you can skip the searing step if you’re short on time. However, searing adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish, so if you have the time, I recommend doing it!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing it in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.
What Should I Serve with BBQ Beef Brisket?
This brisket pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob for a classic BBQ meal. You can also serve it in sandwiches with extra barbecue sauce and pickles for a delicious twist!
