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Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

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This Slow Cooker Beef Brisket is a fuss-free way to create fork-tender, richly flavored beef that’s perfect for slicing or shredding—ideal for hearty dinners or crowd-pleasing meals.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8–10 hours (low) or 5–6 hours (high)
  • Total Time: 8.5–10.5 hours
  • Yield: 8–10 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 beef brisket (34 lb / 1.4–1.8 kg)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing, optional)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 tsp liquid smoke, a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary

Instructions

  1. Season brisket with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
  2. (Optional) Sear brisket in olive oil over medium-high heat, 3–4 minutes per side, for added flavor.
  3. Place brisket fat-side up in the slow cooker.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, onion, garlic, and any optional flavorings.
  5. Pour mixture over the brisket in the cooker.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 5–6 hours, until fork-tender.
  7. Remove brisket and let rest 10 minutes before slicing across the grain or shredding.
  8. To make a sauce, strain cooking liquid, skim fat, and simmer with a cornstarch slurry until thickened.
  9. Serve brisket with the sauce on top or on the side.

Notes

  • Use a whole packer brisket for best flavor and texture.
  • Searing adds flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
  • Add chipotle or BBQ sauce for flavor variations.
  • Make it beer-braised with dark beer and mustard powder.
  • Try a coffee-chili rub before searing for depth and richness.

Nutrition