Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket

This tender, fall-apart slow cooker BBQ brisket sandwich has revolutionized my weeknight dinner game. The hands-off cooking method transforms tough brisket into melt-in-your-mouth meat while you go about your day, creating the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort.

I first made this recipe when hosting a summer backyard gathering that coincided with a heatwave. The slow cooker kept my kitchen cool while still delivering that authentic BBQ flavor everyone craved. Now it's my go-to whenever I need impressive flavor without spending hours monitoring a grill.

Ingredients

• Beef brisket: 2½ pounds preferably with a good fat cap for added moisture and flavor
• BBQ sauce: 1½ cups choose a high quality sauce as it forms the base of your flavor profile
• Brown sugar: provides caramelization and balances the savory elements
• Smoked paprika: delivers that essential smoky flavor without needing a smoker
• Garlic and onion powder: create depth of flavor without the texture of fresh aromatics
• Burger buns: soft brioche works beautifully with the tender meat
• Optional toppings: like pickles sliced onions and coleslaw for texture contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the slow cooker:

Pour 1 cup of your BBQ sauce into the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavorful bath for the brisket to cook in and prevents sticking. Make sure to spread it evenly across the bottom surface.

Create the spice rub:

Combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until fully integrated. The brown sugar might clump slightly but work it through with your fingers for even distribution.

Season the brisket:

Pat the brisket dry with paper towels to help the rub adhere better. Apply the spice mixture generously over all sides of the brisket, pressing it into the meat. Make sure to get into all the crevices and cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.

Slow cook to perfection:

Place the seasoned brisket into the slow cooker on top of the BBQ sauce. Cover with the lid and set to low heat. Let it cook undisturbed for 7-8 hours. The long, slow cooking process allows the tough connective tissues to break down completely.

Rest and prepare the meat:

Remove the brisket from the slow cooker and transfer to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Then either slice against the grain thinly or use two forks to shred the meat, depending on your preference.

Assemble your sandwiches:

Slightly toast your burger buns if desired. Pile the warm brisket onto the bottom bun, drizzle with additional BBQ sauce, and add your favorite toppings before closing with the top bun.

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My family's favorite way to enjoy this brisket is actually as loaded nachos the next day, if there are any leftovers. We pile tortilla chips with chopped brisket, melted cheese, jalapeños, and a drizzle of the thickened cooking liquid from the slow cooker. It's become such a tradition that I sometimes make a double batch just to ensure we have leftovers.

Make-Ahead Options

This brisket actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Complete the entire cooking process, then store the meat in the cooking liquid in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, gently reheat in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or in the microwave for quick portions.

Customizing Your BBQ Sauce

While store-bought BBQ sauce works perfectly in this recipe, making your own allows you to control the flavor profile. For a Kansas City style sauce, increase the brown sugar and add a splash of molasses. For a Carolina twist, add apple cider vinegar and a touch of mustard. Texas style? Add more black pepper and a hint of coffee. The brisket provides the perfect canvas for whatever regional BBQ style you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

Transform your BBQ brisket experience by thinking beyond the sandwich. Serve the meat over creamy mac and cheese for an indulgent twist, or pile it onto a baked potato with all the fixings. For a lighter option, create a BBQ brisket salad with mixed greens, corn, black beans, and avocado. Leftover meat also makes incredible breakfast tacos when paired with scrambled eggs and salsa.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Any BBQ sauce you love will work, but smokey or sweet varieties pair well with brisket's flavors.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the brisket in advance and reheat it. It tends to taste even better the next day.

→ What toppings go well with BBQ brisket sandwiches?

Popular toppings include pickles, onions, slaw, and additional BBQ sauce for added flavor and texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

While brisket works best, you can try chuck roast as an alternative for slow cooking.