Introduction
Table of Contents
Slow cooked beef brisket is one of those comfort foods that just warms you from the inside out. It reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma of slow cooking meat would fill the air, promising a meal full of love and flavor. This slow cooked beef brisket recipe is my take on that classic dish, simplified for the modern home cook without sacrificing any of that incredible taste.
Brisket, when cooked right, becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, practically melting in your mouth. This recipe walks you through achieving a rich flavorful brisket that will become a family favorite. Get ready to create something truly special and share the joy with your loved ones.
Why You Will Love This slow cooked beef brisket Recipe
This slow cooked beef brisket recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly comforting. There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal after a long day. Plus, the fact that it’s a crockpot beef brisket means minimal effort on your part. Set it and forget it, and you will come home from a long day to fork tender brisket.
What I love most about this recipe is the deep, rich flavor. The combination of spices and the slow cooking process creates an incredibly complex and satisfying taste. It’s also incredibly versatile; serve it on its own, in sandwiches, or even over mashed potatoes. This beef brisket recipe is a true crowd pleaser.
Ingredients Needed for This slow cooked beef brisket Recipe
- For the Brisket:
* 3-4 pound beef brisket, trimmed
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Rub:
* 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
* 1 tablespoon kosher salt
* 1 tablespoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- For the Braising Liquid:
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
How to Make This slow cooked beef brisket Recipe
- 1. Prepare the Brisket: Pat the beef brisket dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine all the rub ingredients. Generously coat the brisket with the rub, making sure to cover all sides.
- 2. Sear the Brisket: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Searing helps to lock in the flavors.
- 3. Sauté Aromatics: Remove the brisket from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4. Combine Ingredients: In a crockpot, place the sautéed onions and garlic. Place the seared brisket on top of the onions. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Pour the braising liquid over the brisket.
- 5. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours. The brisket is ready when it is fork tender and easily shreds apart. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker.
- 6. Shred the Brisket: Once the brisket is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the brisket.
- 7. Serve: Return the shredded brisket to the crockpot with the braising liquid. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes to soak up the sauce.
You can find other great recipes like this tender juicy beef brisket. Feel free to search our database, or review our article on Crispy Corned Beef Slow Cooker for another satisfying meal.
How to Serve This slow cooked beef brisket Recipe
This slow cooked beef brisket is incredibly versatile! Serve it piled high on crusty rolls for delicious sandwiches, perfect for a casual get together. You can also serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a comforting and hearty meal.
Consider adding a dollop of coleslaw or a side of pickled onions for a tangy contrast. A drizzle of barbecue sauce can also add an extra layer of flavor. Plating wise, a simple presentation with fresh herbs can elevate the dish.
How to Store This slow cooked beef brisket Recipe
To store any leftover brisket, let it cool completely. Place the shredded brisket and braising liquid in an airtight container.
In the refrigerator, it will last for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the brisket in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the brisket in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a little extra beef broth can help to keep it moist.
Tips to Make This slow cooked beef brisket Recipe
Want to make your slow cooked beef brisket even better? Here are a few tips:
- Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar works as a great substitute. You can also use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Success Tips: Don’t skip the searing step! This is crucial for developing a rich, flavorful crust on the brisket. Also, be patient with the slow cooking process; the longer it cooks, the more tender it will become.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overfilling the crockpot, as this can prevent the brisket from cooking evenly. Also, don’t be tempted to lift the lid frequently, as this releases heat and moisture, lengthening the cooking time.
- Pro Tips: For an even more intense flavor, marinate the brisket in the rub overnight before cooking. You can also add some smoked paprika for a smoky depth.
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Helpful Notes for This slow cooked beef brisket Recipe
- Brisket Details: Brisket is a tough cut of meat, which is why slow cooking is essential. It breaks down the connective tissues, resulting in a tender and juicy product.
- Ingredient Recommendations: Using a good quality beef broth can make a big difference in the flavor of the braising liquid. I prefer using low sodium beef broth so I can control the saltiness. A good quality Worcestershire sauce also adds depth and complexity.
- Equipment Recommendations: A good quality crockpot is a must for this recipe. I also recommend using a large skillet for searing the brisket to ensure even browning.
If you enjoy this rich flavorful brisket, you might also like our original Slow Cooked Beef Brisket recipe.
Variation of This slow cooked beef brisket Recipe
- Seasonal Twists: During the fall, try adding some apples or butternut squash to the crockpot for a seasonal twist. In the summer, you can add some bell peppers or corn on the cob for a fresh, summery flavor.
- Optional Versions: For a spicier version, add some jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the braising liquid. If you prefer a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of honey.
- Creative Modifications: Try adding some coffee to the braising liquid for a unique and bold flavor. You can also use different types of vinegar, such as balsamic vinegar, for a different depth of flavor.
What is the best cut of beef for slow cooked brisket?
The point cut, also known as the deckle, and the flat cut are both good choices. The point cut has more fat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender brisket after slow cooking.
How long should I slow cook beef brisket?
Slow cooking beef brisket typically takes 8-10 hours on low heat (around 250°F or 120°C). Adjust cooking time based on the brisket’s size and your slow cooker model.
What is essential for a juicy slow cooked brisket?
Maintaining moisture is key! Keep the lid on during cooking, avoid overcooking, and allowing the brisket to rest, wrapped in foil, after cooking helps the juices redistribute within the meat.
How do I prevent my brisket from drying out in the slow cooker?
Ensure there’s enough liquid in the slow cooker to keep the brisket moist. Adding beef broth or a flavorful sauce helps prevent the brisket from drying out during the long cooking process.
Conclusion
This slow cooked beef brisket recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser, bringing the warmth and comfort of home cooked meals to your table. It is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy meal on a chilly evening. Don’t hesitate to give this slow cooked beef brisket a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!
Slow Cooked Beef Brisket: The EASIEST, Juiciest Recipe EVER
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Tender, juicy, and melt in your mouth slow cooked beef brisket. This recipe is perfect for a comforting family meal or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pound beef brisket, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Pat the beef brisket dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine all the rub ingredients. Generously coat the brisket with the rub, making sure to cover all sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the brisket from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- In a crockpot, place the sauteed onions and garlic. Place the seared brisket on top of the onions. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Pour the braising liquid over the brisket.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours. The brisket is ready when it is fork tender and easily shreds apart.
- Once the brisket is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the brisket.
- Return the shredded brisket to the crockpot with the braising liquid. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes to soak up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg


