This Slow Cooker Brisket is super tender and packed with flavor! Just season the beef, toss it in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you relax.
The best part? You get to enjoy a hearty meal without spending all day in the kitchen. I love serving it with mashed potatoes—it’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: This is the star of the dish! If you’re looking for a leaner cut or something more budget-friendly, you can substitute it with chuck roast. Just remember that cooking time may vary slightly.
Spices: The combination of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder adds tremendous flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your taste; smoked paprika can replace regular for a deeper flavor. Don’t have chili powder? A pinch of cayenne works too!
Broth and Sauces: Beef broth is essential for moisture and flavor. You can use homemade broth or low-sodium versions. For Worcestershire sauce, try a tamari sauce if you need a gluten-free option. The brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup if preferred.
Onions and Garlic: While yellow onions are a go-to, you could also use sweet onions like Vidalia. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder will do in a pinch — just use a little less than you’d use fresh.
How Do I Sear the Brisket for Maximum Flavor?
Searing is a crucial step as it locks in flavors and creates a nice crust. To get it right:
- Heat oil in the skillet until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
- Place the brisket in the skillet and don’t move it around too much—let it get a good sear for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Look for a deep brown color, which means it’s doing its job! Don’t rush this step, as it enhances the overall taste of your dish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 to 5 pounds beef brisket
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a bit of heat)
For the Sauces:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker brisket takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let it cook—8 to 10 hours on low or 4 to 6 hours on high. So, you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Brisket:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Rub this flavorful seasoning all over the brisket evenly, getting into all the nooks and crannies.
2. Sear the Brisket:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the brisket in the skillet. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until it develops a nice brown crust. When done, remove the brisket from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes or until the onions are softened and fragrant. This will add great depth of flavor!
4. Make the Sauce:
Add the tomato paste to the onions and garlic, cooking for another minute while stirring constantly. Next, pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir everything together and let it come to a gentle simmer, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
5. Slow Cook the Brisket:
Place the seared brisket in your slow cooker, then pour the delicious sauce mixture over the top, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
6. Cooking Time:
Cook the brisket on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Slice and Serve:
Once the brisket is done, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. Be sure to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
8. Optional Gravy:
If you’d like, you can pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer it down to thicken the sauce. Drizzle this over the sliced brisket for an extra burst of flavor!
9. Enjoy:
Serve your warm brisket with the optional gravy on top. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends and family!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! If brisket isn’t available, you can substitute it with chuck roast for a similar flavor and tenderness. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose.
Can I Cook This on High Heat?
Yes, you can! If you’re short on time, cooking the brisket on high for 4-6 hours will still yield delicious results. Just be sure to check for tenderness before serving!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently on the stove or microwave; adding a splash of broth can help keep it moist during reheating.
Can I Freeze the Brisket?
Definitely! You can freeze the cooked brisket in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy it later!
