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Juicy BBQ beef brisket cooked in a slow cooker with spices and BBQ sauce

Slow Cooker Beef Brisket With BBQ Sauce

A tender and flavorful brisket slowly cooked in a rich BBQ sauce, perfect for family gatherings and celebrations.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 hours
Total Time 10 hours 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, BBQ
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Brisket

  • 3 1/2 lb 3 1/2 lb fresh beef brisket, preferably flat cut Make sure to pat dry before seasoning.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.

For the Dry Rub

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar Adds depth to the flavor.
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika For a lovely smoky aroma.
  • 1 tsp kosher salt Enhances the taste.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Adds a comforting garlicky essence.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Offers a sweet and savory element.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Provides a subtle kick.
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin Adds warmth and earthiness.
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper Optional for extra heat.

For the BBQ Sauce

  • 1 1/2 cups ketchup The base of your BBQ sauce.
  • 1/2 cup beef broth Adds moisture and richness.
  • 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar Balances sweetness with acidity.
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar For caramel notes.
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Enhances umami.
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste Adds depth and richness.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Rounds out the flavor.
  • 1 tsp mustard powder For a hint of tang.
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika For an extra layer of smokiness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the brisket dry.
  • Mix the rub ingredients together and coat the brisket on all sides, pressing the seasoning into the meat.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the brisket for 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
  • Transfer the brisket to the slow cooker.

Cooking

  • In the slow cooker, whisk together the ketchup, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, minced garlic, mustard powder, and smoked paprika around the brisket.
  • Place the brisket fat side up.
  • Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours until tender.
  • Transfer the brisket to a foil-lined baking tray.
  • Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan, skim excess fat, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Brush the brisket with reduced sauce and roast for 10-15 minutes, brushing again until sticky and browned at the edges.
  • Let the brisket rest for 15 minutes.
  • Slice thinly across the grain and serve with remaining warm BBQ sauce.

Notes

For a lighter version, use leaner cuts of beef or low-sugar ketchup. Make sure to slice against the grain for tender pieces.
Keyword BBQ sauce, beef brisket, Comfort Food, family-friendly, Slow Cooker