This Slow Cooker Brisket is super tender and packed with flavor! You just set it up in the morning, and let the magic happen as it cooks low and slow all day.
Honestly, who doesn’t love meat that falls apart at a touch? I enjoy serving it with some veggies or on a bun. It’s perfect for lazy weekends or family gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: This is the star ingredient, providing rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. If brisket is hard to find or expensive, you can substitute it with chuck roast for a similar taste and texture.
Olive Oil: I like using olive oil for its flavor, but you can swap it with vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer a lighter option.
Onions: A large onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. If you’re not a fan, shallots or leeks can work well too.
Beef Broth: This enhances the meat’s flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium broth or even vegetable broth, though that will change the flavor slightly.
Barbecue Sauce: Use any barbecue sauce you love! For a healthier twist, look for a reduced-sugar version or make your own. If you’d like it spicy, consider a hot sauce instead.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Sear on My Brisket?
Searing the brisket is all about locking in flavors and enhancing that delicious crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by patting the brisket dry; moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Preheat the skillet and add the olive oil, making sure it’s hot before you add the meat.
- Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until it’s deeply browned. Don’t rush; a good sear needs patience!
This process adds a ton of flavor and aroma, making each bite even tastier. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
How to Make Slow Cooker Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 to 5 pounds beef brisket
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (or your preferred sauce)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare everything, and then you’ll let the slow cooker do the work for about 8 to 10 hours on low heat (or 4 to 5 hours on high). This means you can set it up in the morning and enjoy a delicious dinner later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brisket:
Start by patting the brisket dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick. Next, season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the flavor!
2. Sear the Brisket:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the brisket. Sear it on all sides until you see a dark brown crust forming, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in the flavors! Once done, transfer the brisket to your slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and slightly softened. This will give your sauce a delicious depth of flavor!
4. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste into the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This helps combine all those lovely flavors together.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the flavorful sauce mixture right over the brisket in the slow cooker. Make sure it’s well covered, but there’s no need to stir yet; everything will meld beautifully as it cooks!
6. Slow Cook the Brisket:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the brisket is tender and pulls apart easily with a fork.
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once cooked, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat even more tender. When ready, slice it against the grain for the best texture.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon some of the delicious cooking juices over your sliced brisket for extra flavor. Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if you like! Serve it with extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling, and enjoy your hearty meal!
This slow cooker brisket is a comforting and flavorful dish that everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s sure to impress!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! If brisket isn’t available, you can use a chuck roast or even a round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut, so make sure to check for tenderness.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Searing the Meat?
While searing adds great flavor and texture, you can skip this step if you’re short on time. Just season the brisket and place it directly into the slow cooker with the sauce. The dish will still turn out delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little beef broth or sauce to keep it moist.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Slow Cooker Brisket?
This brisket is fantastic served with mashed potatoes, on a sandwich, or alongside roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with additional barbecue sauce for extra flavor!
