Easy Crock Pot Brisket Recipe

Making brisket in a crock pot is an incredibly easy cooking method that is sure to produce some mouth-watering results. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious and tender brisket without having to slave away in the kitchen all day.

To get started, all you need is a crock pot, some basic ingredients and a little bit of patience. One of the great things about making brisket in a crock pot is that it takes just a few minutes to prepare and can be left to cook for several hours, allowing you to have a stress-free day while your dinner cooks itself. So if you’re ready to create a succulent, flavorful dish that everyone will love, keep reading for a simple and fool-proof recipe for making brisket in a crock pot!

Choosing the right cut of brisket

When it comes to making brisket in a crockpot, it is essential to start with the right cut of meat. Brisket is a tough cut of meat that needs low and slow cooking to achieve tenderness. The best cut of brisket for cooking in a slow cooker is the flat cut, also known as the first cut.

Preparing the brisket

Before cooking the brisket, you need to prepare it properly. Start by trimming any excess fat from the brisket, leaving a layer of about 1/4 inch to help keep the meat moist during cooking. Season the brisket with your favorite spices and herbs, rubbing them generously on all sides.

Searing the brisket

While searing the brisket is optional, it can add a depth of flavor that cannot be achieved through slow cooking alone. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over high heat and sear the brisket on all sides until browned. This step will take approximately 2-3 minutes per side.

Layering the ingredients

Once the brisket has been seared, it’s time to layer the ingredients in the crockpot. Start by adding a layer of sliced onions to the bottom of the crockpot, followed by the seared brisket. Add another layer of sliced onions on top of the brisket, followed by garlic cloves, carrots, and celery.

Adding liquid

To ensure that the brisket cooks properly and stays moist, you need to add liquid to the crockpot. You can use beef broth, red wine, or even beer as a flavorful liquid for the brisket. Pour the liquid into the crockpot, making sure it covers the brisket.

Cooking the brisket

Set the crockpot to low heat and let the brisket cook for 8-10 hours, or until it’s tender and falls apart easily with a fork. Make sure to resist the temptation to lift the lid or stir the brisket as this will release the heat and slow down the cooking process.

Checking for doneness

After 8-10 hours, check the brisket for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should reach 190°F to 205°F for a well-cooked, tender brisket.

Resting the brisket

Once the brisket is done, remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Serving the brisket

To serve the brisket, slice it against the grain into thin slices. Arrange the slices on a platter and spoon the vegetables and cooking liquid over the top. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Storing and reheating leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the brisket and vegetables in a saucepan over low heat and warm it gently. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed to keep the meat moist.

How to Make Brisket in a Crock Pot: The Recipe and Techniques

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients and tools, it’s time to get started on the recipe. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious brisket in your crock pot:

Step 1: Prepping the Brisket

The first step in making brisket in a crock pot is to prep your brisket. This means trimming off any excess fat and seasoning the meat with your desired spices. You can use a dry rub or a marinade, depending on your preference. Make sure to generously coat the brisket on all sides.

Step 2: Browning the Brisket

Next, it’s time to brown the brisket. Heat up a skillet on medium-high heat and sear the brisket on both sides until it’s nicely browned. This will help seal in the juices and add some extra flavor to the meat.

Step 3: Adding Your Liquid and Vegetables

Once the brisket has been browned, you can transfer it to the crock pot. Add your liquid (such as beef broth or beer) and vegetables (such as onions, carrots, and celery) to the pot. The liquid should cover at least half of the brisket.

Step 4: Cooking the Brisket

Set your crock pot to the desired cooking time and temperature (usually around 8-10 hours on low heat or 4-6 hours on high heat). Cover the pot with a lid and let the brisket cook until it’s tender and falls apart with a fork.

Step 5: Resting the Brisket

Once the brisket is done cooking, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Step 6: Straining Your Sauce

If you want to make a sauce or gravy with the liquid in your crock pot, you can strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids. This will give you a smooth and flavorful sauce to serve with your brisket.

Step 7: Slicing the Brisket

When you’re ready to serve your brisket, slice it against the grain (this means slicing perpendicular to the lines of the meat fibers) into thin, even slices. This will make it easier to chew and enjoy.

Step 8: Serving Your Brisket

Now it’s time to serve your delicious brisket! You can serve it on its own or pair it with some delicious sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to drizzle some of your homemade sauce over the top for extra flavor.

Step 9: Storing Your Brisket

If you have leftovers, you can store your brisket in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent any freezer burn.

Step 10: Trying Different Variations

Finally, feel free to experiment with different variations of this recipe! You can try different spices, vegetables, or sauces to create your own unique flavor profiles. With a crock pot and some creativity, the possibilities are endless!

5 Tips for Making the Perfect Brisket in a Crock Pot

Making a brisket in a crock pot is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort. However, there are a few tips that you need to keep in mind to ensure that your brisket turns out perfect every time. In this section, we will share five tips that will help you make the best brisket in a crock pot.

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

The first step to making a great brisket in a crock pot is choosing the right cut of meat. Brisket is a tough cut of meat that comes from the breast of the cow. It is full of connective tissue and fat, which makes it rich and flavorful, but also requires long, slow cooking to break down the toughness and make it tender. Look for a brisket that has good marbling and is well-trimmed. The fat will keep the meat moist during cooking, and the trimming will ensure that the brisket fits in the crock pot.

Seasoning the Brisket

Seasoning your brisket well is important for developing flavor. You can use your favorite dry rub or marinade, or keep it simple with just salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Don’t be afraid to be generous with your seasoning, as some of it will be lost during the long cooking process. Rub the seasoning into the meat evenly, making sure to cover all sides of the brisket.

Browning the Brisket

Browning the brisket before cooking will help develop a deep, rich flavor and will also help the meat hold its shape during the cooking process. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the brisket on all sides until it is browned. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the brisket to ensure a good sear.

Cooking on Low and Slow

Cooking your brisket on low heat for a long time is the key to making it tender and juicy. Set your crock pot to low heat and cook the brisket for 8-10 hours. Check on the brisket occasionally to make sure there is enough liquid and that it is not overcooking. You can add more liquid if needed, such as beef broth or BBQ sauce, but be careful not to add too much.

Letting the Brisket Rest

Letting your brisket rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing it will help the juices settle back into the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. Cover the brisket with foil and let it rest on a cutting board before slicing against the grain. This will also make it easier to slice, as the meat will be more tender. Don’t rush this step, as it will make a big difference in the final result.

Happy Cooking!

Thanks for reading this article on how to make brisket in a crockpot. I hope you found the instructions clear and easy to follow. Now it’s time to get to work and try out this delicious recipe for yourself. Don’t forget to share your feedback with us! We would love to hear your thoughts on our recipe and any tips and tricks you might have for us. Until next time, happy cooking and have a great day! Remember to check back soon for more exciting recipes!