Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe

A savory and tender beef brisket, slow-cooked to perfection, is a meal that truly comforts and satisfies. It's a rustic dish with a rich depth of flavor that can make any day feel like a special occasion. The slow cooking process ensures the beef is incredibly soft and infused with flavors, while a quick broil gives it a delectable, slightly crispy exterior.

Photos of Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe can be found in your average kitchen. However, you might not have a beef brisket on hand. This is a specific cut of meat from the lower chest or breast of beef. It's known for its strong beef flavor and, when cooked properly, its melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can find it in the meat section of most supermarkets.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Beef brisket: This is the star of the show. It's a cut of meat from the breast or lower chest of beef. The slow cooking process in this recipe will make it tender and flavorful.

Kosher salt: This type of coarse grain salt will enhance the flavor of the brisket.

Coarse ground black pepper: This will add a slight heat and depth to the brisket's taste.

Garlic: Fresh garlic will infuse the brisket with a pleasant and aromatic flavor.

One reader, Aurelia Alcorn says:

This slow cooker beef brisket recipe is a game-changer! The meat comes out incredibly tender and flavorful. The seasoning is spot on, and the slow cooking process infuses the brisket with amazing taste. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, delicious meal.

Aurelia Alcorn

Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

How to trim the brisket: Remove any excess fat from the brisket, leaving about ¼ inch of fat on the meat.

How to pat the brisket dry: Use paper towels to remove any excess moisture from the brisket before seasoning.

How to season the brisket: Rub the brisket with kosher salt, coarse ground black pepper, and minced garlic, ensuring even coverage.

How to slow cook the brisket: Place the seasoned brisket, fat side up, into the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 hours.

How to finish in the oven: After slow cooking, place the brisket in the oven on broil for 1 minute to add a caramelized crust.

How to rest and slice the brisket: Allow the brisket to rest for 30 minutes before slicing it against the grain for maximum tenderness.

How To Make Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

This perfectly tender beef brisket takes 10 minutes to prep and 4 easy ingredients. The meat is seasoned with salt and pepper then slow-cooked until ready.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 8 hours

Rest Time: 30 minutes

Total: 8 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5lbsbeef brisket,fat trimmed
1tbspkosher salt
1tspcoarse ground black pepper
4clovesgarlic,minced

Instructions

Trim the fat off the brisket, leaving about ¼ inch.
Pat the brisket dry with paper towels.
Season the brisket with salt and pepper and rub the garlic all over it.
Add the brisket, fat side up, into the slow cooker for 8 hours on low heat.
To finish, place the brisket in the oven on broil for 1 minute.
Let brisket rest for 30 minutes prior to slicing and slice along the grain of the meat.

Nutrition

Calories: 785.40kcal
Fat: 62.98g
Saturated Fat: 25.42g
Monounsaturated Fat: 26.97g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.40g
Carbohydrates: 0.68g
Fiber: 0.10g
Sugar: 0.02g
Protein: 50.50g
Cholesterol: 266.49mg
Sodium: 663.42mg
Calcium: 52.49mg
Potassium: 778.21mg
Iron: 4.31mg
Vitamin A: 0.08µg
Vitamin C: 0.47mg

Technique Tip for Achieving Tender and Flavorful Beef Brisket

When preparing your beef brisket, it's crucial to slice the meat against the grain once it's cooked. This means cutting perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers. This technique breaks up the fibers and makes the meat easier to chew and more tender. If you cut along the grain, the meat can be quite tough. So, always remember to locate the direction of the grain before you start slicing your brisket.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Beef Brisket in a Slow Cooker

Prep ahead: Prepare the brisket seasoning and garlic rub the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time and make the morning preparation a breeze.

Use slow cooker liners: Consider using slow cooker liners for easy cleanup. This will save time on scrubbing the slow cooker after cooking.

Slicing technique: Sharpen your knife before slicing the brisket to ensure clean and efficient cuts. This will save time and effort during the slicing process.

Temperature check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the brisket is cooked to the desired doneness, preventing overcooking and saving time on recooking.

Resting period: Allow the brisket to rest in the slow cooker for 30 minutes after cooking to lock in the juices and flavors, saving time on reheating.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe

beef brisket - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder has a similar rich and fatty texture that works well in slow cooking, and it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor profile to kosher salt, and can be used in the same quantity for seasoning.
coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can add a similar level of heat and a slightly different flavor profile to the dish.

Presentation Tips for a Delicious Beef Brisket

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow-cooked beef brisket, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use fresh herbs and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a contrast of textures to the plate by including a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a root vegetable puree. This will provide a delightful balance to the tender brisket.
Garnish with flair: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by garnishing with thinly sliced radishes or pickled onions. These elements will not only add a burst of color but also provide a refreshing crunch.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the brisket to be the focal point. This will create a clean and sophisticated presentation that showcases the beauty of the dish.
Consider the plate shape: Opt for a sleek, elongated plate to present the sliced brisket. The elongated shape will allow the meat to be displayed gracefully, enhancing the overall visual impact of the dish.
Sauce with precision: Drizzle a small amount of the cooking juices or a complementary sauce around the brisket slices, ensuring that the sauce is applied with precision to maintain a polished presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop kitchen appliance used for cooking food at a low temperature for an extended period of time. It's perfect for tenderizing tough cuts of meat like brisket.
Paper towels: These are used for patting the brisket dry before seasoning, helping to ensure a better sear and flavor.
Oven: The oven is used for broiling the brisket for a short time after slow cooking to give it a nice crust and added flavor.
Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the brisket after it has rested, ensuring clean and even cuts.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing the brisket and protects your countertops from damage.
Tongs: Tongs are useful for transferring the brisket to and from the slow cooker and broiler without damaging the meat.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to accurately measure the kosher salt and black pepper for seasoning the brisket.
Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to crush the garlic cloves for rubbing onto the brisket, infusing it with flavor.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet may be used to catch any drippings when broiling the brisket in the oven.
Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil can be used to tent the brisket during its resting period, helping to keep it warm and retain its juices.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Once the brisket has cooled to room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent the meat from drying out and absorbing any unwanted flavors in the refrigerator.
Place the wrapped brisket in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible if using a bag to minimize the risk of freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Refrigerate the brisket for up to 4 days. If you plan to keep it longer, it's best to freeze it.
To freeze, follow the same wrapping and storing process as for refrigeration. Beef brisket can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
When ready to reheat, thaw the brisket in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
Reheat the thawed brisket in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also reheat it in a slow cooker on low heat until warmed through.
If reheating sliced brisket, place it in a baking dish with a small amount of beef broth or water to help maintain moisture. Cover the dish with foil and reheat in the oven or slow cooker until warmed through.

How To Reheat Leftover Beef Brisket

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the leftover brisket in a baking dish with a small amount of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Cover the dish tightly with foil and reheat for about 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a quicker method, use the microwave. Place the brisket slices in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of liquid (such as beef broth or water) and cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per slice, or until heated through.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat your brisket using this precise method. Place the brisket slices in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag with the air removed. Set your sous vide machine to 165°F (74°C) and submerge the bag in the water bath for about 30 minutes, or until heated through.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat your brisket on the grill or in a cast-iron skillet. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat and brush the brisket slices with a small amount of olive oil or beef broth. Grill or sear the slices for 1-2 minutes per side, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you have leftover brisket and want to transform it into a new dish, consider shredding the meat and using it in tacos, sandwiches, or quesadillas. You can also dice the brisket and add it to soups, stews, or chili for an extra boost of flavor and protein.

Random Fact About Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Beef brisket is a popular cut of meat for slow cooking due to its high collagen content, which breaks down during the long cooking process, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Is Making Beef Brisket in a Slow Cooker Economical for Home Cooking?

The slow cooker beef brisket recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The beef brisket is a relatively affordable cut of meat, and the slow cooking process tenderizes it, making it a budget-friendly option. The minimal use of ingredients keeps the cost down, and the resulting dish is flavorful and satisfying. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it an economical choice for a hearty meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Healthy or Unhealthy?

This slow cooker beef brisket recipe is relatively healthy, but there are a few aspects to consider:

The recipe uses a lean cut of beef (brisket), which is a good source of protein and iron
The cooking method (slow cooking) helps to retain moisture and tenderness without the need for added oils or fats
The seasoning is minimal, using only salt, pepper, and garlic, which keeps the sodium content in check

However, there are a few potential drawbacks:

The recipe doesn't include any vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients, which could make it a less balanced meal
Depending on the size of the serving, the protein content may be quite high, which could be a concern for some individuals
The fat content, while not excessive, may still be higher than some people prefer, especially if the brisket is not trimmed well

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Trim the fat cap on the brisket to 1/8 inch or less to reduce the overall fat content
Add a variety of chopped vegetables to the slow cooker, such as onions, carrots, and celery, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
Use a low-sodium beef broth or water instead of salt to help control the sodium levels
Serve the brisket with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables and a whole grain, such as brown rice or quinoa, to create a more balanced meal
Consider using a leaner cut of beef, such as top round or sirloin, if you're looking to further reduce the fat content
Experiment with additional herbs and spices, like rosemary, thyme, or paprika, to add flavor without increasing the sodium content

Editor's Thoughts on This Delectable Beef Brisket Recipe

This slow cooker beef brisket recipe is a classic and comforting dish. The seasoning and slow cooking process allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender and juicy. The addition of garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor. However, I would recommend adding some liquid, such as beef broth or red wine, to the slow cooker to keep the brisket moist during the long cooking time. Overall, this recipe is a great choice for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic bread, brushed with herb-infused olive oil and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy vinaigrette before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Braised Lamb Shanks: Slowly cook the lamb shanks in a flavorful broth until they are fall-off-the-bone tender, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: Blend together ripe mangoes and creamy coconut milk for a refreshing and tropical dessert that's perfect for hot days.

Chicken Tortilla Soup: Simmer chicken, tomatoes, and spices together for a comforting and hearty soup topped with crispy tortilla strips and creamy avocado.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent dessert with a gooey chocolate center that oozes out when you dig in with a spoon.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a perfect appetizer.

Bruschetta: Slices of toasted baguette are topped with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze, creating a refreshing and satisfying start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate from the center. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Apple Crisp: Savor the comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced baked apples topped with a crispy oat and brown sugar crumble. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of caramel swirl ice cream for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe:

This slow cooker beef brisket recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The beef brisket is carefully seasoned with kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors. The addition of garlic infuses the meat with aromatic goodness. Slow cooking for 8 hours on low heat allows the brisket to become tender and succulent. Finishing it in the oven on broil creates a beautiful crust, enhancing the texture. Resting the brisket before slicing ensures optimal juiciness. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous cooking process for a mouthwatering beef brisket experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this slow cooker beef brisket recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

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

Yes, you can use a different cut of beef, such as chuck roast or bottom round, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the brisket?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions to the slow cooker to enhance the flavor of the brisket.

Is it necessary to broil the brisket in the oven at the end?

Broiling the brisket at the end is optional, but it helps to caramelize the outer layer and add a nice crust to the meat.

Can I cook the brisket on high heat for a shorter time?

While it's possible to cook the brisket on high heat for a shorter time, slow cooking on low heat allows the meat to become tender and develop rich flavors more effectively.

How should I store the leftover brisket?

Store the leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to reheat it gently to maintain its tenderness.