Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket is a must-try for lovers of tender, flavorful meat with a smoky barbecue kick. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, thanks to the slow cooker doing all the hard work. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prepping. With minimal effort and maximum taste, it’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food that melts in your mouth.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
beef brisket (trimmed)smoked paprikaonion powdergarlic powderbrown sugarsaltblack pepperchili powderbarbecue sauce (your favorite brand)beef brothapple cider vinegarWorcestershire sauceonion (sliced)
directions
Rub the brisket with a mixture of smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and chili powder.
Place sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Lay the seasoned brisket on top of the onions.
In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Pour the sauce mixture over the brisket.
Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the brisket is fork-tender.
Remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes.
Slice or shred the meat as desired.
Optional: Return the meat to the slow cooker to soak in the sauce before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 8-10 hoursTotal time: 8 hours 15 minutes to 10 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Use a spicy barbecue sauce for added heat.
Add a dash of liquid smoke for extra smoky flavor.
Serve the brisket on sandwich buns for BBQ beef sandwiches.
Top with coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
storage/reheating
Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a bit of the cooking sauce to keep it moist.Freeze portions for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What cut of meat should I use?
Brisket is ideal, but you can also use chuck roast or flank steak.
Can I cook it on high?
Yes, cook on high for 4-5 hours, though low and slow yields the best texture.
Do I need to sear the brisket first?
It’s optional. Searing adds flavor but isn’t necessary with a flavorful rub.
What BBQ sauce should I use?
Use your favorite brand—sweet, spicy, or smoky all work well.
How do I prevent the brisket from drying out?
Cooking on low and keeping it covered in sauce helps retain moisture.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
What can I serve with BBQ brisket?
Coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or mashed potatoes are great sides.
Can I shred instead of slice?
Absolutely, shredded brisket works well in sandwiches or tacos.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well for future meals.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure your slow cooker is large enough.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe that delivers mouthwatering results every time. Juicy, flavorful, and versatile, it’s a winning dish for any BBQ lover. Whether served as a main dish or in sandwiches, it’s sure to impress and satisfy with every bite.
Print
Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus optional overnight rub)
- Cook Time: 8–10 hours (LOW) or 4–5 hours (HIGH)
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes (LOW) / 4 hours 15 minutes (HIGH)
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Tender, smoky, and fall‑apart slow cooker BBQ beef brisket perfect for easy entertaining.
Ingredients
- 4–5 lb beef brisket, trimmed
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Mix paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub all over brisket.
- Place sliced onion and minced garlic in slow cooker base.
- Put seasoned brisket on top of onions.
- Whisk beef broth, BBQ sauce, and Worcestershire, then pour over brisket.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until meat is very tender.
- Remove brisket; let rest 15 minutes, then slice against the grain.
- Skim fat from sauce; spoon over sliced brisket or serve on the side.
- Optional: For a thicker glaze, transfer sauce to a saucepan and simmer until reduced.
Notes
- For best flavor, refrigerate brisket overnight after rubbing with spices.
- Leftovers freeze well—store meat and sauce separately.
- Serve with coleslaw, pickles, or on toasted buns.
- Adjust spice rub quantities to taste or try adding cayenne for heat.