Crockpot Brisket Recipe

A Crockpot Brisket is a hands-off, flavorful way to prepare one of the most tender and juicy cuts of meat. Cooking brisket in a slow cooker allows the meat to become incredibly soft and infused with the savory flavors of spices, herbs, and your choice of broth or sauce. This recipe results in a melt-in-your-mouth brisket that’s perfect for a hearty meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow cooking brisket in the Crockpot not only makes it incredibly easy but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a deeply satisfying dish. The long, slow cook time ensures the brisket becomes tender and falls apart effortlessly, making it the perfect choice for a Sunday dinner or a special occasion. Plus, this recipe requires only a few simple ingredients, so it’s an easy way to prepare a delicious, comforting meal with minimal hands-on time.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 4-5 lbs beef brisket (flat cut or point cut)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for searing the brisket)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Brisket: If you’d like, sear the brisket to add extra flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the brisket with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Sear the brisket for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. This step is optional but recommended for added flavor.
2. Prepare the Crockpot: Place the sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the Crockpot.
3. Combine the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until the brown sugar is dissolved.
4. Cook the Brisket: Place the seared (or unseared) brisket on top of the onions in the Crockpot. Pour the sauce mixture over the brisket, ensuring it’s well-coated.
5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender and easily shreds.
6. Finish and Serve: Once the brisket is done, remove it from the Crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice or shred the meat, and drizzle with some of the cooking juices. Serve the brisket with the onions and sauce from the Crockpot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
• Total Time: Approximately 8-10 hours (depending on the size of the brisket and the slow cooker setting).

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add carrots, potatoes, or celery to the Crockpot along with the brisket for a complete meal. They will cook along with the meat and absorb the flavorful juices.
• Spicy version: Add a few tablespoons of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or a sliced jalapeño to give the brisket a bit of heat.
• Sweet variation: For a sweeter brisket, increase the amount of brown sugar or add a bit of honey to the sauce mixture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the brisket on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. You can also reheat it in the Crockpot on low for a few hours, adding a little extra broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I cook brisket without searing it first?

Yes, while searing enhances the flavor, it’s not necessary. You can skip this step and place the brisket directly into the Crockpot.

2. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Brisket is ideal for slow cooking due to its tough nature, but you could substitute with other cuts like chuck roast. However, the cooking time may vary slightly.

3. Can I make Crockpot brisket ahead of time?

Yes, Crockpot brisket can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days. It also freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance.

4. How do I know when my brisket is done?

The brisket is done when it is fork-tender and easily shreds. If it’s not tender enough, continue to cook it in the Crockpot for a little longer.

5. Can I use low-sodium soy sauce in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute low-sodium soy sauce for regular soy sauce if you’re looking to reduce the sodium content.

6. Can I cook the brisket on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook the brisket on high for 4-6 hours, but for the best tenderness and flavor, slow cooking on low is recommended.

7. How do I slice a brisket?

After resting, slice the brisket against the grain for the most tender slices. If you prefer shredded brisket, use two forks to pull apart the meat.

8. What should I serve with Crockpot brisket?

Crockpot brisket pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve it on sandwiches with a tangy barbecue sauce.

9. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, leftover brisket can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to store it with some of the cooking juices to keep it moist.

10. Can I make a gravy with the cooking juices?

Yes! To make gravy, pour the cooking juices into a saucepan, bring it to a simmer, and thicken with a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water). Simmer until thickened, then serve over the brisket.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Brisket recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a tender, flavorful brisket that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with a succulent dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a comforting meal, this brisket will definitely be a hit!

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