This Slow Cooker Beef Brisket recipe delivers tender, juicy, and flavor-packed meat, enhanced by a smoky spice rub and a homemade barbecue sauce. It's an effortless yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion.

Why I Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this recipe transforms a tough cut of meat into a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth delight with minimal effort. The combination of a robust spice rub and a tangy homemade BBQ sauce creates a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. Plus, the make-ahead option makes entertaining stress-free.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Brisket:

4-5 pounds beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
1 cup water
1 tablespoon beef bouillon
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
½ cup homemade barbecue sauce (see below)

For the Spice Rub:

2 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon chipotle powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Homemade Barbecue Sauce:

1 ½ cups ketchup
⅓ cup molasses
⅓ cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup seedless blackberry preserves
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon reserved spice rub
1 tablespoon mesquite liquid smoke (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Spice Rub: In a medium bowl, combine all the spice rub ingredients. Reserve 1 tablespoon for the barbecue sauce.
Season the Brisket: Rub the remaining spice mix evenly over the brisket. Place the seasoned brisket on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
Sear the Brisket: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the brisket uncovered for 30 minutes to develop a flavorful crust.
Make the Barbecue Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together all the barbecue sauce ingredients, including the reserved tablespoon of spice rub.
Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Add ½ cup of the barbecue sauce, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and beef bouillon. Stir to combine.
Slow Cook the Brisket: Transfer the seared brisket to the slow cooker, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, flipping halfway through, until the brisket is very tender.
Caramelize the Brisket: Remove the brisket from the slow cooker and place it on a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush with additional barbecue sauce and broil for 5-10 minutes until slightly caramelized.
Serve: Slice the brisket against the grain or shred it, and serve with the remaining warmed barbecue sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Total Time: Approximately 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the spice rub for more heat.
Sweet Touch: Incorporate honey or maple syrup into the barbecue sauce for added sweetness.
Different Cuts: Substitute beef brisket with chuck roast if desired.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the brisket in a slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.

FAQs

What if I don't have a slow cooker?

I can cook the brisket in a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot. After searing, add the sauce ingredients, cover, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours until tender.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often cook the brisket a day in advance, refrigerate it in its juices, and then reheat it in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours before serving.

What sides pair well with this brisket?

I enjoy serving it with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or on a bun as a sandwich.

Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?

While homemade sauce enhances the flavor, I can use my favorite store-bought barbecue sauce in a pinch.

How do I know when the brisket is done?

The brisket is done when it's very tender and easily shreds with a fork. If it's still tough, I let it cook longer.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Beef Brisket recipe is a game-changer for effortless, flavorful meals. The combination of a smoky spice rub and homemade barbecue sauce creates a dish that's both comforting and impressive. Whether for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this brisket is sure to be a hit.