This Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket is super tender and packed with flavor! Just season your brisket and let the slow cooker do all the work for you.
There’s something magical about coming home to the smell of BBQ in the air. You’ll probably want to eat it straight out of the pot—and who could blame you? 😄
I love making this for family gatherings because it’s so easy. Just put it in the slow cooker and in a few hours, you have a delicious meal ready to serve. Perfect for a busy day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: This cut is perfect for slow cooking. If brisket isn’t available, try chuck roast instead. It has great flavor and also becomes very tender when cooked slowly.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand, or make your own! If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, there are great sugar-free alternatives available. You can even experiment with different styles like mustard-based or vinegar-based sauces.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, soy sauce can be a good substitute. You could also use coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Spices: The smoked paprika and chili powder give a nice kick! If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether. Instead, you can try adding some cumin for warmth.
How Do I Get My Brisket Fork-Tender?
The key to a tender brisket is the slow cooking process. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by seasoning the brisket well. Allowing the spices to sit on the meat for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps develop flavor.
- Searing the brisket is crucial; it locks in juices and adds color.
- Cook it on low heat for the recommended time. The longer, the better, so patience is key! Low and slow breaks down the fat and collagen in the meat.
- Let it rest after cooking—this helps the juices redistribute.
With these tips, your brisket will turn out tender and delicious every time! Enjoy the process and the fantastic smell that fills your kitchen!
Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 to 5 pounds beef brisket
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy slow cooker BBQ beef brisket takes about 15 minutes to prep and then you’ll need to cook it for 8 to 10 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high. So, allow for a full day of cooking time or a nice long afternoon to enjoy it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brisket:
First, pat the beef brisket dry using paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better! In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Rub this spice mix evenly all over the brisket to coat it well.
2. Sear the Brisket:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, sear the brisket on all sides until it’s browned, which will take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step seals in the flavors and makes it taste amazing!
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker. Now, lay the seared brisket right on top. This setup will let the brisket soak up all those delicious onion and garlic flavors.
4. Add Sauce and Seasoning Mix:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this tasty mixture over the brisket in the slow cooker, covering it well.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and cook the brisket on low for about 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. You know it’s ready when it’s fork-tender, which means you can easily pull it apart with a fork! Yum!
6. Rest & Slice:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time makes sure the juices stay inside the meat when you slice it.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the brisket against the grain into thin slices. Serve it with the onions and sauce from the slow cooker spooned over the top. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley for a bit of color and flavor!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful barbecue brisket! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While brisket is ideal for this recipe, you can also use a chuck roast or even beef round as alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose.
How Do I Know When the Brisket is Done?
The brisket is ready when it becomes fork-tender, meaning you should be able to shred it easily with a fork. A meat thermometer can help here—aim for an internal temperature of around 195°F to 205°F for optimal tenderness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the brisket a day in advance, then refrigerate it in its juices. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat in the slow cooker or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. This could also enhance the flavors!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, ideally with a little of the cooking sauce to keep it moist.
