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–+ servings

Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Recipe

Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal. If you need a tender beef brisket recipe that practically cooks itself, this is it. We start with a smoky dry rub featuring paprika and brown sugar, then let it braise low and slow for 8 hours in a savory mix of beef broth and apple cider vinegar. The result is fork-tender meat that rivals your favorite smokehouse. Perfect for Sunday dinner or easy meal prep for the week.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Course slow cooker
Cuisine American
Servings 10

Ingredients
  

For the brisket

  • 3 to 5 pounds beef brisket flat cut preferred
  • 1 large yellow onion sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced

Dry rub

  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons salt use less if your BBQ sauce is salty
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

Sauce

  • 1 cup barbecue sauce divided
  • ¾ cup beef broth low sodium if possible
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, chili powder, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
  • Pat brisket dry and rub the seasoning mixture all over, pressing it into the meat.
  • Optional: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil and sear brisket 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned.
  • Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
  • Whisk beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon (if using), and 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce. Pour the mixture around the brisket.
  • Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, until the brisket is very tender and pulls apart easily.
  • Remove brisket and rest 15 to 20 minutes, tented with foil.
  • Skim excess fat from slow cooker liquid if needed. Stir in remaining barbecue sauce.
  • Slice brisket against the grain, or shred with two forks. Toss with sauce.
  • Optional: Broil brisket on a foil-lined baking sheet with sauce for 3 to 6 minutes for caramelized edges. Serve with extra sauce.

Notes

  • For the most tender brisket, cook on low and give it the full time.
  • Slice against the grain for tender bites.
  • Store brisket with sauce to keep it juicy when reheating.
  • If sauce is thin, simmer the cooking liquid in a saucepan for 10 to 15 minutes, then stir in barbecue sauce.