This Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket is super tender and packed with flavor. Just toss in the brisket, add your favorite BBQ sauce, and let the slow cooker do the work!
Honestly, there’s nothing like the smell of BBQ brisket filling your home. It’s like a big hug in the form of food! I love serving it on sandwiches with a side of coleslaw.
The best part? You can just set it and forget it! After a few hours, you get a juicy meal that’s sure to impress everyone, even if you just rolled out of your pajamas. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: This cut of meat is ideal for slow cooking because it becomes tender over time. If brisket isn’t available, you could use chuck roast or beef round as alternatives. They also have good flavor and texture after long cooking.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can make a homemade sauce with tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices. For a spicy kick, look for hot BBQ sauces or add some chili powder to your mixture.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a depth of flavor to the brisket. If you don’t have it, try using regular paprika mixed with a bit of liquid smoke, or just skip it altogether for a simpler taste.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics enhance the overall flavor. You can substitute with shallots or leeks if you prefer. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can stand in too.
How Do I Ensure My Brisket is Perfectly Tender?
The key to tender brisket lies in cooking it low and slow. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by applying the dry rub evenly all over the brisket for great flavor.
- Searing the brisket is optional, but it does add extra rich flavor. If you skip this step, the brisket will still be tasty!
- Layer onions and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker to infuse the meat while cooking.
- Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours. Low and slow is best for tenderness, so if you can, opt for the low setting.
- Let the meat rest after cooking. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making it even juicier when sliced.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth brisket that everyone will love!
Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef brisket
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then requires 8-10 hours on LOW or 4-6 hours on HIGH in the slow cooker. Let it rest for an additional 10 minutes after cooking for ultimate tenderness. So, you can set it in the morning and have a delicious dinner waiting for you in the evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give your brisket a wonderful flavor.
2. Apply the Rub:
Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the brisket. Make sure every inch is covered for maximum flavor!
3. Sear the Brisket (Optional):
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the brisket and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is optional, but it adds extra flavor.
4. Layer the Cooking Base:
Place the sliced onions and minced garlic (if using) at the bottom of the slow cooker. They will infuse the brisket with delicious flavor as it cooks.
5. Add the Brisket:
Put the seared brisket on top of the onion layer in the slow cooker. This helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.
6. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the barbecue sauce with the beef broth or water. Pour this sauce over the brisket in the slow cooker.
7. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-6 hours. The brisket is done when it’s tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
8. Rest Before Serving:
Once the brisket is done, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, so the meat stays juicy when you slice it.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice or shred the brisket and serve it with the extra BBQ sauce from the slow cooker. It’s fantastic on its own, in sandwiches, or served alongside coleslaw and roasted veggies!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful slow cooker BBQ beef brisket!
FAQ about Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While brisket is the best for this recipe due to its marbling and flavor, you can also use chuck roast or beef round as substitutes. They will still yield tender results when cooked low and slow.
What If I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce? Can I Make My Own?
Absolutely! You can create a simple homemade BBQ sauce using ingredients like ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. This way, you can customize the flavors according to your preferences!
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, you can freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Certainly! You can add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or your favorite hot sauce into the dry rub or BBQ sauce to give it an extra kick. Adjust to taste for the spice level you enjoy!
