This Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Texas barbecue to your kitchen. With tender, slow-cooked beef brisket smothered in your favorite BBQ sauce and served on a warm bun, it’s perfect for a satisfying dinner or a weekend gathering. The slow cooker does most of the work, making this recipe both convenient and delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 ½ lb beef brisket
1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
Smokey BBQ spice rub (brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper)
6 burger buns
Optional toppings: pickles, onions, coleslaw, additional BBQ sauce

Directions

Prepare the smokey BBQ spice rub by mixing brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Rub the seasoning all over the brisket.
Pour 1 cup of BBQ sauce into the slow cooker.
Place the seasoned brisket into the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 7-9 hours.
Remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Shred or thinly slice the brisket.
Assemble the sandwiches by placing the brisket on the buns and adding your preferred toppings.

Nutrients

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: Approximately 550
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 15g
Protein: 35g

The Charm of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is one of the best methods for preparing tender, flavorful meats, and brisket is no exception. Unlike quick cooking methods, which may result in tougher cuts of meat, slow cooking allows the collagen in the brisket to break down, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. This process can take several hours, but the wait is well worth it. Slow cooking also enables the beef to absorb all the flavors of the rub and BBQ sauce, giving it a rich, smoky flavor that is characteristic of slow-cooked BBQ. Using a slow cooker, you can set the dish and let it cook while you go about your day, making it an ideal option for busy individuals or those who don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

For many home cooks, the slow cooker is a game-changer. With just a little prep work in the morning, you can come home to a perfectly cooked meal in the evening. This hands-off approach allows you to focus on other tasks while your brisket slowly tenderizes and soaks up the flavors of the sauce. Plus, slow cookers are incredibly versatile, allowing you to make everything from stews and soups to pulled pork and brisket.

The Flavor Profile of BBQ Brisket

One of the main reasons people love BBQ brisket is its unique and bold flavor profile. Brisket, a cut from the chest of a cow, is known for its rich, beefy flavor. However, because of its toughness, it requires slow cooking to make it tender and enjoyable. When prepared with a smoky, tangy BBQ rub, the brisket absorbs all the flavors, making each bite incredibly flavorful.

In the case of this Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich, the brisket is seasoned with a smokey BBQ rub that includes brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices. This rub adds a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the natural richness of the beef. The rub also forms a beautiful crust on the brisket while it cooks, giving it that perfect balance of crispy edges and tender meat.

Once the brisket is cooked and shredded, it’s mixed with BBQ sauce, which adds another layer of flavor. The BBQ sauce can be any variety you prefer, whether it’s tangy, sweet, or spicy. The sauce coats the brisket, making it juicy and flavorful. When placed on a soft, toasted bun, the combination of smoky brisket and BBQ sauce is irresistible.

Customization: Make It Your Own

One of the greatest things about the Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich is how versatile it is. While the classic version of this sandwich is already a winner, you can customize it in many different ways to suit your preferences.

BBQ Sauce Variety: The beauty of BBQ is that there are so many different styles of sauce to choose from. Some people prefer a tangy vinegar-based sauce, while others love a sweet and smoky tomato-based sauce. You could even opt for a mustard-based BBQ sauce for a unique twist. Experiment with different sauces to find the one that you love most.
Add More Toppings: While the brisket and BBQ sauce are the stars of the show, you can elevate your sandwich with some creative toppings. Pickles, onions, and coleslaw are common choices for adding texture and balancing the richness of the meat. If you like things spicy, try adding jalapeños or hot sauce. For a more decadent version, you could top the sandwich with melted cheese, like cheddar or provolone.
Buns: The type of bun you choose for your sandwich can make a big difference. While a classic burger bun works perfectly, you can also use brioche buns, ciabatta rolls, or even toasted sourdough. Choose a bun that complements the rich flavors of the brisket, and make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy filling.
Side Dishes: A good BBQ brisket sandwich is filling on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, or French fries. For a healthier option, consider a side of grilled vegetables or a simple green salad.

Why Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket is Ideal for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who likes to meal prep for the week, this Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich is a fantastic option. Once the brisket is cooked, you can store the shredded meat in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat the brisket with a bit of BBQ sauce when you’re ready to serve it. The sandwich can be assembled quickly, making it an ideal meal for busy days.

You can also freeze the brisket for later use. After it’s cooked and shredded, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag with some BBQ sauce, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat. The flavors will continue to develop, and the meat will remain tender and juicy.

This makes the Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich not only a delicious meal but also an incredibly practical one. Whether you’re feeding a large group, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving a delicious sandwich, this recipe can be a go-to in your kitchen.

The Appeal of Comfort Food

At its core, BBQ brisket is a quintessential comfort food. The slow-cooked, tender beef combined with the rich, smoky flavors and sweet BBQ sauce is a meal that satisfies both the body and the soul. There’s something about biting into a warm sandwich filled with tender brisket that evokes feelings of contentment and happiness. Comfort foods like this one have the ability to bring people together, creating memorable moments around the dinner table.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and slow cooking techniques can create a flavorful, comforting meal. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s packed with rich, smoky flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tender meat. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or preparing it for meal prep, this sandwich will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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