CROCKPOT BRISKET
Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food with this Crockpot Brisket recipe! Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish transforms a tough cut of meat into a juicy, tender masterpiece that practically melts in your mouth. With just a few ingredients and a trusty crockpot, you can create a hearty and flavorful meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any day you crave something truly special.
The first time I made this Crockpot Brisket, I was a bit skeptical. Could something this simple really turn out to be that good? Well, let me tell you, the answer is a resounding yes! My husband is a brisket lover, and the moment he took his first bite, I knew this recipe was a winner. The rich, savory aroma that fills the kitchen while it cooks is absolutely mouthwatering. Now, it’s become our go-to dish for cozy family dinners, especially during the colder months. My kids even love to help with the simple prep, making it a fun family affair!
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Why You’ll Love Crockpot Brisket
- Incredibly Tender: Slow-cooking the brisket results in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Full of Flavor: The long, slow cooking process allows the spices and sauce to infuse every bite.
- Low Effort: With just a few simple steps, the crockpot does all the hard work.
- Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or serving with mashed potatoes and veggies.
Ingredients Notes for Crockpot Brisket
- Brisket: A 3-4 pound beef brisket works best. Trim excess fat, but leave a little for flavor.
- Seasoning: A simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika creates a flavorful rub.
- Sauce: Use beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and a splash of BBQ sauce for that rich, savory flavor.
- Onions: Add sliced onions to the crockpot for an extra layer of flavor and a touch of sweetness.
Recipe Steps for Crockpot Brisket
- Prepare the Brisket: Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket.
- Sear the Brisket (Optional): Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Add to Crockpot: Place the sliced onions in the bottom of the crockpot. Lay the brisket on top of the onions.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce. Pour the sauce over the brisket in the crockpot.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the brisket is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Serve: Remove the brisket from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding. Spoon some of the sauce over the top, and serve with your favorite sides.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezer: Place slices of brisket and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add Veggies: Add carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms to the crockpot for a complete one-pot meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the spice rub for some heat.
- Sauce Swap: Use your favorite BBQ sauce or add some tomato paste for a different flavor profile.
- Wine: Substitute half of the beef broth with red wine for a rich, deep flavor.
CROCKPOT BRISKET
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs beef brisket
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce your favorite variety
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the Brisket: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the brisket to season it generously.
- Sear the Brisket (Optional but recommended): Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the brisket to the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove the brisket from the skillet and set it aside.
- Prepare the Crockpot: Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Cook the Brisket: Place the seared brisket on top of the onions and garlic in the crockpot. Pour the sauce mixture over the brisket, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Slow Cook:
- Low Setting: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the brisket is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- High Setting: If you’re short on time, cook on high for 4-5 hours.
- Serve: Once the brisket is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Slice the brisket against the grain for the most tender pieces. Drizzle the brisket slices with the sauce from the crockpot.
- Optional: Serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side and pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dishes.