Tender Crock Pot Brisket

This easy Crock Pot brisket recipe is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. Slow cooked low and slow with a simple dry rub and tangy barbecue sauce, it captures that classic barbecue taste even without a smoker. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or just need a hands off dinner, this brisket delivers consistently delicious results.

I first made this during a busy holiday weekend and was amazed how tender the meat was without any fuss. Since then, it has become my go to recipe when I want that barbecue flavor with zero stress.

Ingredients

• 4 to 5 pound brisket: choose the flat cut if your crock pot size is limited for even cooking
• Beef broth: adds moisture and keeps the brisket juicy during the long cook
• Dry rub: a blend of sugars, spices, and smoky powders that create a flavorful crust fresh spices make all the difference here
• Barbecue sauce: tangy and slightly sweet, use your favorite store bought brand or homemade for extra character
• Optional liquid smoke: provides a hint of smokiness reminiscent of outdoor smoked brisket

Instructions

Pour the liquid base:

Pour one cup of beef broth into the base of your crock pot. If you want extra smoky flavor, add one teaspoon of liquid smoke into the broth and stir gently to combine.

Mix and apply the dry rub:

Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, black peppercorns, chipotle powder, and cayenne pepper until well blended. Generously coat the entire surface of the brisket with about one third of a cup of this dry rub, pressing it in so it adheres well.

Place brisket in the crock pot and add sauce:

Put the brisket in the crock pot with the fat side facing up to keep the meat moist. Spread half of your barbecue sauce evenly over the top of the brisket.

Cook low and slow:

Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on the low setting for eight to ten hours. After about seven to eight hours, check the meat for doneness by gently piercing with a fork, it should feel tender and start to shred easily.

Optional broil for crust and additional flavor:

Remove the cooked brisket and place it on a baking sheet. Brush the remaining barbecue sauce on top. Set your oven broiler to high and broil the brisket for about four to five minutes until a golden crust develops. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Slice and serve:

Allow the brisket to rest for five minutes to let the juices redistribute. Using a sharp knife, slice the meat across the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

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This dry rub is my favorite part since it adds a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy notes. I still remember the first time I served this brisket at a family gathering and everyone was asking for seconds. It instantly became a hit around our table.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover brisket tightly sealed in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to four days. To keep it moist, store it with any cooking juices. When freezing, wrap the brisket first in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to lock in flavor and moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you have a different favorite spice blend you want to use, feel free to swap it in place of the dry rub. For a spicier version, increase the cayenne or chipotle powder. Swap beef broth for vegetable broth as a lighter alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve sliced brisket alongside classic barbecue sides like creamy coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or potato salad. For a holiday meal, mashed potatoes or twice baked potato casserole pair beautifully. Brisket chopped or shredded also works great in sandwiches or tacos.

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This brisket is an easy, hands off way to get tender, flavorful meat that feeds a crowd. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ How long should I cook brisket in a crock pot?

Cook brisket on low for 8-10 hours until fork tender. Start checking around 7-8 hours to avoid overcooking.

→ Can I add smoky flavor without a smoker?

Add about 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to the beef broth for subtle, smoky notes during slow cooking.

→ What is the purpose of broiling after slow cooking?

Broiling after slow cooking creates a flavorful crust, enhancing texture and adding a caramelized glaze to the meat.

→ How do I slice brisket for best texture?

Slice against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-chew slices that highlight the meat’s juiciness.

→ What sides pair well with slow-cooked brisket?

Traditional sides like cornbread, coleslaw, baked beans, and mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors perfectly.