This Crockpot Brisket is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy beef infused with smoky, savory flavors. It’s the ultimate comfort food that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds beef brisket
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season brisket with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sear both sides until browned (4–5 minutes per side).
- Place onions and garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. Lay the seared brisket on top.
- Mix beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Pour over brisket.
- Cover and cook on low 8–10 hours (or high 4–6 hours) until tender.
- Remove brisket, let rest 10–15 minutes, then slice. Spoon cooking juices over top and garnish with parsley.
Variation
- Swap the barbecue sauce for tomato paste and red wine for a more traditional pot-roast flavor.
- Add sliced carrots and potatoes into the crockpot for a complete one-pot meal.
- Use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce instead of cayenne for a smoky, spicy twist.
Cooking Notes
- Always sear the brisket before slow cooking it locks in flavor and creates a richer sauce.
- Cooking on low heat yields the most tender and juicy results compared to high.
- Resting the brisket before slicing helps the juices redistribute, preventing dryness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice to soak up the savory juices.
- Serve in toasted brioche buns for hearty brisket sandwiches with coleslaw on top.
- Add roasted seasonal vegetables or a crisp green salad for balance.
Tips
- For easier slicing, cut against the grain of the brisket.
- If the sauce is too thin, remove the brisket and reduce the liquid on the stovetop until thickened.
- Leftovers make excellent brisket tacos or quesadillas the next day.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 hours (low) or 4–6 hours (high)
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the brisket a day in advance, refrigerate it in the juices, and reheat gently before serving. -
Do I have to sear the brisket before slow cooking?
While not absolutely required, searing adds deep flavor and helps develop a richer sauce. -
Can I freeze leftover brisket?
Absolutely. Store cooled brisket in freezer-safe containers with some of the juices. It will keep for up to 3 months. -
What if my brisket turns out tough?
Tough brisket usually means it wasn’t cooked long enough. Return it to the crockpot and continue cooking on low until tender.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Brisket is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you get melt-in-your-mouth beef and a savory sauce that pairs with almost anything. It’s hearty, versatile, and guaranteed to impress whether for a family dinner or weekend gathering.
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Crockpot Brisket
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Crockpot Brisket is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy beef infused with smoky, savory flavors. It’s the ultimate comfort food that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pounds beef brisket
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season brisket with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sear both sides until browned (4–5 minutes per side).
- Place onions and garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. Lay the seared brisket on top.
- Mix beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Pour over brisket.
- Cover and cook on low 8–10 hours (or high 4–6 hours) until tender.
- Remove brisket, let rest 10–15 minutes, then slice. Spoon cooking juices over top and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Resting the brisket before slicing ensures maximum juiciness.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer the cooking liquid on the stovetop until reduced.
- You can prep everything the night before and start the crockpot in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 hours
- Category: Dinner, Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Keywords: crockpot brisket, slow cooker brisket, tender beef brisket