This slow cooker brisket is juicy and tender, perfect for a cozy dinner. It cooks low and slow, letting all the flavors blend beautifully. Yum!
What I love most is how easy it is! Just season the brisket, toss it in, and relax while it cooks. Your house will smell amazing, and everyone will want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: This cut of meat is perfect for slow cooking. If you can’t find brisket, try using chuck roast or sirloin. Both offer good flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked.
Onion: A large onion adds sweetness and depth. If you prefer a milder flavor, use shallots instead. They will add a nice touch without being overpowering.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a robust flavor. However, garlic powder can be a quick substitute, using about 1 teaspoon for every clove.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds umami to your dish. If you’re out, you can mix soy sauce with a bit of vinegar to mimic that depth of flavor.
Brown Sugar: If you want a healthier option, try coconut sugar or honey to sweeten your sauce. Both will work well with the savory elements.
Red Pepper Flakes: They’re optional but great for heat. If you don’t have them, a dash of hot sauce or even black pepper can add some spice instead.
How Do I Sear the Brisket Correctly?
Searing your brisket is vital for building flavor. It creates a beautiful crust and locks in moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the brisket dry before seasoning; this helps get a good crust.
- Heat your skillet until hot, but don’t burn the oil. Add oil right before adding the brisket.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If the brisket is too large, consider cutting it in half.
- Let it brown without moving it too much. It needs about 4-5 minutes per side for a deep crust.
A good sear might take a little longer, but it’s worth it for that flavor!
How to Make Slow Cooker Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4-5 pounds beef brisket, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
For Thickening (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Garnish:
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time of 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the slow cooker. Set it up, let it cook, and enjoy a delicious meal without much hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brisket:
Start by patting the brisket dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and improves the crust when searing. Generously season all sides of the brisket with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Sear the Brisket:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the brisket and sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it develops a nice dark brown crust. This step adds lots of flavor! Once done, transfer the brisket to your slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to mix up the sauce! Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer while scraping up any browned bits left in the pan for extra flavor.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the flavorful sauce over the brisket in the slow cooker, ensuring it’s well coated.
6. Slow Cook the Brisket:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the brisket is fork-tender and shreds easily.
7. Slice and Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute. When ready, slice the brisket against the grain into thin pieces for the best texture!
8. Optional Gravy:
If you’d like a thicker sauce, strain the cooking liquid and bring it to a simmer in a saucepan. Whisk in the cornstarch, mixed with a little water, and simmer until thickened. This makes a delicious gravy to serve on top!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the sliced brisket with the thickened sauce or cooking juices poured over the top. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like! This dish pairs perfectly with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or some warm crusty bread.
10. Enjoy!
This slow cooker brisket turns out tender, flavorful, and delectable, sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Brisket?
Yes, you can use frozen brisket! However, it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. The safest way is to thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours. If you’re short on time, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave, but be sure to cook it immediately after thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, a mix of soy sauce and vinegar can work well. Use a ratio of 3:1—3 parts soy sauce to 1 part vinegar—for a similar flavor profile. You can also add a bit of honey for added sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Cook This in an Oven Instead?
Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the brisket in a covered roasting pan with the sauce. Cook for about 3-4 hours, or until tender, checking occasionally to ensure it doesn’t dry out. Add a little broth if needed!
