Brisket in Crock Pot

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Brisket in Crock Pot is incredibly easy to make and yields melt-in-your-mouth results. The spice rub infuses the meat with a blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, while the homemade barbecue sauce gives it a tangy and rich finish. The slow cooker ensures the brisket is cooked to perfection, becoming so tender that it practically falls apart. With minimal effort and big flavor, this recipe is a keeper for any meat lover.

Ingredients

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
• 1/2 cup homemade barbecue sauce (directions to follow)

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
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for more heat)

Barbecue Sauce

• 1 1/2 cups ketchup
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup seedless blackberry preserves
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon reserved Spice Rub from above
• 1 tablespoon mesquite liquid smoke (optional but recommended)

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

Directions

Prepare the Spice Rub:

1. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the spice rub: paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, chipotle powder, black pepper, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Rub the spice mixture generously over the entire surface of the brisket. Make sure to coat the brisket evenly on all sides for maximum flavor.

Cook the Brisket:

1. Place the seasoned brisket in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the water, beef bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Pour this mixture over the brisket.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the brisket is fork-tender and can easily be shredded or sliced.

Prepare the Barbecue Sauce:

1. While the brisket is cooking, make the homemade barbecue sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, blackberry preserves, apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of the reserved spice rub.
2. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together. If you’re using mesquite liquid smoke, stir it in at this stage to give the sauce a smoky flavor.
3. Once the sauce is ready, set it aside until the brisket is done.

Serve:

1. Once the brisket is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice or shred the brisket, depending on your preference.
2. Drizzle the homemade barbecue sauce over the brisket or serve it on the side.
3. Serve the brisket with your favorite sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Total Time: 8-10 hours (slow cook on low) or 4-5 hours (slow cook on high)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like onions, carrots, or potatoes to the slow cooker with the brisket to make a one-pot meal.
• Gluten-Free Version: To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that your Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free, or use tamari as a soy sauce substitute.
• Make it Spicy: For more heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the spice rub or add some chopped jalapeños to the slow cooker.
• Use Different Cuts of Beef: While brisket is traditional, you can substitute with other cuts of beef like chuck roast for a similar result.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the brisket in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can add a little beef broth to keep it moist during reheating.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast or pot roast. While brisket is ideal for slow cooking, these other cuts will also work and become tender when cooked low and slow.

Can I make this brisket ahead of time?

Yes, this brisket can be made ahead of time. Simply cook it, store the leftovers in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftover brisket?

Yes, you can freeze leftover brisket for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stovetop.

Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can substitute the homemade barbecue sauce with your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce. However, the homemade sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that really makes the dish shine.

Can I cook the brisket on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook the brisket on high for 4-5 hours, but for the best results and the most tender meat, it’s recommended to cook it on low for 8-10 hours.

Can I cook the brisket without searing it first?

While searing the brisket adds extra flavor, you can skip this step and still get a delicious result. Just place the seasoned brisket directly into the slow cooker and cook it as directed.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can make this brisket spicier by increasing the cayenne pepper in the spice rub or adding some hot sauce to the barbecue sauce. Adjust to your preferred spice level.

How do I know when the brisket is done?

The brisket is done when it’s fork-tender and can easily be shredded or sliced. The internal temperature should be around 190°F for optimal tenderness.

Can I serve this brisket in sandwiches?

Yes, this brisket makes great sandwich fillings. Serve it on a bun with extra barbecue sauce, pickles, and coleslaw for a tasty sandwich.

Can I use a different type of liquid smoke for the barbecue sauce?

Yes, mesquite liquid smoke adds a great smoky flavor, but you can also use hickory or applewood liquid smoke as an alternative.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Brisket recipe is the perfect way to enjoy melt-in-your-mouth tender beef with a rich and flavorful homemade barbecue sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to be a hit. With minimal effort and big flavor, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your slow-cooker rotation!

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