Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce

Gather these ingredients to create a succulent beef brisket:

  • For the brisket:
    • 3 to 4 pounds beef brisket (flat cut is preferable)
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 onion, sliced
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup beef broth
    • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
    • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
    • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
    • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat

Directions for Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce

  1. Prepare the brisket: Start by patting the brisket dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season the meat generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder on both sides.
  2. Sear the brisket: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the brisket for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it develops a golden-brown crust. This step is optional but adds great flavor.
  3. Combine the ingredients in the slow cooker: In the slow cooker, layer the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom. Place the seared brisket on top. In a bowl, mix together the beef broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture over the brisket.
  4. 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 fork-tender.
  5. Rest and slice the brisket: Once cooked, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.
  6. Serve: Slice the brisket against the grain and drizzle with extra barbecue sauce from the slow cooker. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Slow cooker
  • Large skillet (for searing)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

  • Choose the right cut: Flat cut brisket is leaner and cooks more evenly, while point cut is fattier and richer in flavor. Either works well in this recipe; just be mindful of cooking times as point cut may take longer.
  • Don’t skip the searing: Searing the brisket adds depth of flavor and helps lock in moisture, making your final dish even more delicious.
  • Adjust the BBQ sauce: Feel free to customize the BBQ sauce to your liking. Add more brown sugar for sweetness or hot sauce for heat.
  • Let it rest: Allowing the brisket to rest after cooking is crucial for maintaining its juiciness and tenderness.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftovers from your Slow Cooker Beef Brisket can be enjoyed in many ways:

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze sliced brisket or leftover portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven, adding a splash of beef broth or BBQ sauce to keep the meat moist.

Pairing Suggestions

This delicious brisket pairs wonderfully with:

  • Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the brisket.
  • Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a comforting side that complements the savory flavors of the beef.
  • Baked beans: The sweet and smoky flavors of baked beans make a classic pairing with BBQ.
  • Pickles: Dill pickles or pickled vegetables provide a tangy contrast to the rich brisket.

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