Slow Cooker Brisketrn

Name: Slow Cooker Brisket
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 510 min
Ingredients: 1 beef brisket, (about 3.5-4 pounds, I used a flat-cut beef brisket); 3 teaspoons kosher salt, (divided into 2 teaspoons and 1 teaspoon); 2 teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper, (divided in half); 1½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, (thickly sliced (2 cups)); 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1½ cups beef broth, (or beef stock); 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 3 tablespoons light brown sugar, (packed); 1½ teaspoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme

close up shot of slices of Slow Cooker Brisket on a wooden table

Our Slow Cooker Brisket recipes makes tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef infused with savory flavors from a blend of spices and aromatic ingredients. 20 Minutes of prep for a meal your family will devour!

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Table of Contents

Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe Ingredients
Brisket in a Crockpot Recipe Substitutions and Additions
How To Make Slow Cooker Brisket
How To Serve This Slow Cooker Beef Recipe
How To Store Leftover Slow-Cooked Brisket
Why This Recipe for Slow Cooker Brisket Is The Best
Frequently Asked Questions
More Recipes You’ll Love
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This Slow Cooker Brisket recipe is as easy as it is savory and delicious. Tender beef seasoned to perfection, cooked low and slow for mouthwatering results. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is a must-try for all beef lovers.

If you’ve ever wondered if cooking brisket to tender perfection is difficult, think again. This Crock Pot brisket recipe makes it so easy to make juicy homemade beef right in your kitchen, any time of year.

overhead shot shot of slices of Slow Cooker Brisket and potatoes on a plate

Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe Ingredients

Slow Cooker Brisket raw ingredients that are labeled

Get ready to enjoy the aroma and flavors of our Slow Cooker Brisket recipe. With its simple yet irresistible combination of seasonings, this dish promises to be a hit at your dinner table.

You’ll Need:

1 beef brisket (about 3.5-4 pounds, we used a flat-cut beef brisket)
3 teaspoons kosher salt (divided into 2 teaspoons and 1 teaspoon)
2 teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper (divided in half)
1½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large yellow onion, thickly sliced (2 cups)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1½ cups beef broth (or beef stock)
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
1½ teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Brisket in a Crockpot Recipe Substitutions and Additions

If you find yourself missing an ingredient or looking to add a personal touch to your Slow Cooker Brisket, fear not! Here are some easy substitutions and additions to customize this recipe to your liking.

Beef Broth: If beef broth is unavailable, you can substitute it with vegetable broth. For added depth of flavor, you can try using a combination of broth and red wine or beer.

Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, tamari or coconut aminos can be used as substitutes. You can also adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences, adding more or less as desired.

Light Brown Sugar: Swap light brown sugar with dark brown sugar or maple syrup, honey or molasses for a unique twist on the flavor.

Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic can be substituted with garlic powder or garlic paste. Keep in mind that the intensity of flavor may vary, so add your substitution slowly and adjust as you go.

Smoked Paprika: If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika can be used as a substitute. For a smokier flavor, try adding a dash of liquid smoke or chipotle powder.

Onion: Feel free to customize the onion variety based on your preference. Red onions or shallots can be used for a slightly sweeter flavor, while white onions offer a more pungent taste.

Remember, while these substitutions and additions offer versatility, they may slightly alter the taste and texture of the final dish. Feel free to get creative and experiment with flavors to make this Slow Cooker Brisket truly your own!

How To Make Slow Cooker Brisket

This slow cooked brisket recipe shows you how to make a classic brisket that will fall apart when it’s done. It’s one of our favorite ways to make brisket because it comes out fork tender and is so easy to make. Sear the beef, place it in the Crock Pot with onions and garlic, and cook in a flavorful homemade sauce. It’s the easiest way to make a flavorful brisket.

STEP ONE: Before you begin cooking your recipe, make sure you pat down your beef brisket with paper towels. You’ll also want to chop your onion and measure out the remaining ingredients to help streamline the cooking process.

PRO TIP: It’s important that your beef has some hardened fat on it, but if the fat looks excessive, you can trip some of it away. This will help prevent your meat from becoming too greasy while still giving it plenty of juicy flavor.

STEP TWO: Generously season the dried brisket with kosher salt and cracked black pepper. Make sure you season both sides of the meat.

STEP THREE: Add the olive oil to a large, non-stick skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the pan is very hot, give the brisket a good sear with the fat side down for five to six minutes. Then, flip the brisket over and sear it for another four to five minutes. The brisket will become golden brown. Transfer the brisket to a slow cooker with the fat cap up.

PRO TIP: The layer of fat you see on your brisket is called the fat cap. Ultimately, you want to cook this brisket with a layer of fat facing up. As the fat melts in the slow cooker, it will baste the meat and give the brisket tons of flavor.

STEP FOUR: In the same skillet, saute the sliced onion for a few minutes until it begins to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook until it’s fragrant. Turn off the heat and remove the skillet from the burner.

onions sautéed and garlic added to the skillet

STEP FIVE: Using a slotted spoon, remove the onion and garlic from the skillet, allowing the excess grease to drip back into the skillet. Spread the onions and garlic over the beef in the slow cooker.

STEP SIX: Mix the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, low-sodium soy sauce, light brown sugar, remaining kosher salt and black pepper, smoked paprika, cornstarch, and dried thyme in a small mixing bowl. Pour the sauce mixture over the brisket in the slow cooker.

mix broth, worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, pepper, salt, paprika, cornstarch, and thyme poured over the brisket

STEP SEVEN: Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook until the brisket is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

brisket covered and cooked in a slow cooker

STEP EIGHT: Place a cutting board inside a baking sheet. This will catch any excess liquid that may seep out of the beef while it’s resting.

STEP NINE: When the brisket is finished cooking, transfer it to the cutting board and cover it with heavy-duty aluminum foil for about ten minutes. Then, slice or shred the meat. Reserve the brisket drippings to serve along with the meat.

How To Serve This Slow Cooker Beef Recipe

Now that your slow cooker brisket of beef is ready to grace the table, make sure you serve it up in style! Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this delectable dish.

Serve As The Main Dish: Slice the tender brisket against the grain and arrange it on a serving platter, allowing the succulent meat to take center stage. Serve alongside a generous spoonful of the flavorful cooking liquid and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with comfort food sides like baked mac and cheese or mashed potato casserole.

Shred The Beef: You can make classic shredded brisket for sandwiches, tacos, quesadillas, or nachos. After you allow the brisket to rest, use 2 forks to gently shred the meat into large chunks.

Make Brisket Tacos: Transform leftover brisket into mouthwatering tacos by stuffing warm tortillas with thinly sliced brisket, crunchy slaw, diced tomatoes, and tangy salsa. Top with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added creaminess. These tacos are perfect for a casual Taco Tuesday dinner or a festive taco night with friends.

Brisket Sandwiches: Pile tender brisket onto toasted brioche buns or homemade rolls and slather with your favorite barbecue sauce for a yummy brisket sandwich dinner. Add crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and pickled red onions for extra flavor and texture. Serve with a side of potato salad for a satisfying lunch or dinner option.

For a classic pairing, serve your Slow Cooker Brisket with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.

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How To Store Leftover Slow-Cooked Brisket

Now that you know the best way to cook tender meat in the slow cooker, make sure you store it properly so it stays fresh for as long as possible.

MAKE AHEAD: This recipe for a beef brisket is perfect for preparing ahead of time, so it’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Follow the recipe as directed, then allow the brisket to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for longer-term storage.

IN THE FRIDGE: To store leftover BBQ brisket in the fridge, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, just reheat the brisket using your preferred method (see below) until warmed through.

IN THE FREEZER: For longer-term storage, you can freeze leftover Slow Cooker Brisket for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, portion the brisket into individual servings and place them in airtight freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw the brisket overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

HOW TO REHEAT: When it’s time to enjoy your stored Slow Cooker Brisket again, there are several reheating methods to choose from. For best results, we recommend reheating in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Alternatively, you can reheat the brisket and drippings on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed to your liking.

If you’re short on time, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate, but this is our least favorite way to reheat brisket. Cover the meat loosely with a damp paper towel to try to prevent drying out.

Why This Recipe for Slow Cooker Brisket Is The Best

By now, your mouth is probably watering, and you can’t wait to dig into your brisket! There are so many reasons this is the absolute best recipe!

Reasons We Love This Recipe:

Easy Preparation: One of the greatest joys of this recipe is its simplicity. With simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress. No standing over the stove or grill all day.

Flavorful Results: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with rich flavors. It’s such a delicious recipe.

Comfort Food at Its Finest: At its core, this recipe is the definition of comfort food. There’s something inherently comforting about the aroma of slow-cooked meat filling your home, and once you try the first bite of your brisket, you’ll experience a sense of warmth and satisfaction.

overhead shot of slices of Slow Cooker Brisket on a wooden table

Slow Cooker Brisket is a flavorful and versatile option for a weeknight dinner, get-together, or holiday meal. This tender beef infused with savory spices is a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners or casual dinner parties, this no-fail recipe promises delicious results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

While the recipe is tailored for beef brisket, you can experiment with other cuts like chuck roast or bottom round. Keep in mind that the cooking times and results may vary.

Can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste preferences?

Absolutely! Feel free to tweak the seasonings to your liking. You can add more or less salt, pepper, or spices according to your taste.

Can I cook the brisket on high heat for a shorter time instead of low heat for a longer time?

Yes, you can cook the brisket on high heat for about 5-6 hours instead of low heat for 8-10 hours. However, the low and slow method typically yields more tender and flavorful results.

How do I know when the brisket is done cooking?

The brisket is done when it’s fork-tender and easily pulls apart. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F.

Can I reheat the brisket in the microwave?

While you may accidentally overcook your brisket, yes, you can reheat individual portions of brisket in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them loosely with a damp paper towel to try to prevent drying out and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

How can I make the brisket more tender?

If you have a tough cut of meat, you can marinate it in the seasoning mixture overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat and helps to break down a lot of connective tissue for a more tender result.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the brisket?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions to the slow cooker along with the brisket for a complete one-pot meal. Add the vegetables in the last 2-3 hours of cooking.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly and use a larger slow cooker if necessary.

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