If you’re looking for a dish that is hearty, flavorful, and simple to make, look no further than Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce. This tender brisket is slow-cooked to perfection, soaking in a rich, homemade BBQ sauce that brings out all its delicious flavors. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for busy weeknights!
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Slow Cooker Beef Brisket is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, the slow cooking method allows the meat to become incredibly tender and juicy. Second, the homemade BBQ sauce is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste. Lastly, this recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping, making life a little easier.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1.5 – 2 kg / 3 – 4 lb beef brisket (Note 1)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or a neutral oil like vegetable or canola)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp paprika powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 3/4 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup / 125 ml apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups / 375 ml ketchup
- 1/2 cup / 110g brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tsp each: black pepper, onion powder, mustard powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste regarding spiciness)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
- Combine the rub ingredients in a bowl. Rub this mixture all over the brisket. If you have time, let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to 24 hours. This step is optional, but it does enhance the flavor.
- In your slow cooker, mix the BBQ sauce ingredients together. Place the seasoned brisket into the cooker. If it doesn’t fit, squish it in!
- Slow cook the brisket for 8 hours if it weighs 1.5 kg / 3 lb or 10 hours for 2 kg / 4 lb.
- Once cooked, transfer the brisket to a tray. Pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat and let it reduce until it thickens to syrup consistency.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Drizzle the brisket with oil and roast it in the oven for 15 minutes until it has some brown spots.
- Remove it from the oven and baste generously with the thickened sauce. Return to the oven for 5 minutes. Baste again, then put it back in for an additional 5-10 minutes until it caramelizes.
- To serve, slice the brisket thinly across the grain and enjoy it with any remaining BBQ sauce. This dish is excellent as a meal with sides or piled high on rolls with coleslaw for sliders.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Brisket
You can serve this brisket with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread. It also makes delicious BBQ sliders when piled onto rolls with some coleslaw. Don’t forget to drizzle extra BBQ sauce on top for added flavor!
How to Store Slow Cooker Beef Brisket
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To extend the life, you can freeze the brisket for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Beef Brisket
- If you have a stronger flavor preference, let the rub sit on the brisket longer before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 90°C (195°F) for the best tenderness.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
Variation
For a different flavor twist, you can add some chopped onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for added texture and sweetness. You can also try different types of BBQ sauce for more variety.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of meat instead of brisket?
Yes, other cuts such as chuck roast can also work, but cooking times may vary.Can I cook this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can roast it in the oven at a low temperature (around 150°C/300°F) for several hours until tender.Is it necessary to sear the brisket before cooking?
Searing adds flavor, but it is not necessary. You can cook it directly in the slow cooker if you prefer.
With these simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering Slow Cooker Beef Brisket that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
For the Brisket
- 1.5 – 2 kg beef brisket Note: 3 – 4 lb
- 1 tbsp olive oil Or a neutral oil like vegetable or canola
For the Rub
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp paprika powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ¾ tsp mustard powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the BBQ Sauce
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust to taste regarding spiciness
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine the rub ingredients in a bowl. Rub this mixture all over the brisket. If you have time, let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to 24 hours.
- In your slow cooker, mix the BBQ sauce ingredients together. Place the seasoned brisket into the cooker.
Cooking
- Slow cook the brisket for 8 hours for 1.5 kg / 3 lb or 10 hours for 2 kg / 4 lb.
- Once cooked, transfer the brisket to a tray and pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat until it thickens to syrup consistency.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Drizzle the brisket with oil and roast it in the oven for 15 minutes until it has some brown spots.
- Remove it from the oven and baste generously with the thickened sauce, then return to the oven for 5 minutes.
- Baste again, then put it back in for an additional 5-10 minutes until it caramelizes.
Serving
- Slice the brisket thinly across the grain and serve with any remaining BBQ sauce.
