Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

I love making Slow Cooker Beef Brisket when I want a deeply flavorful, tender main dish with very little hands-on time. The brisket cooks low and slow until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth soft, soaking up all the rich juices and seasonings. I find it perfect for family dinners, holidays, or meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how the slow cooker does most of the work for me. I enjoy the way the brisket becomes incredibly tender after hours of gentle cooking. The savory sauce develops rich depth, making every bite satisfying. I also like how versatile it is, whether I serve it sliced, shredded, or in sandwiches.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 to 4 lbs beef brisket
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup barbecue sauce or tomato sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar

Directions

1. I season the brisket evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the brisket on both sides until browned.

3. I place the sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.

4. I set the seared brisket on top of the onions.

5. In a bowl, I mix together beef broth, barbecue sauce or tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.

6. I pour the sauce mixture over the brisket.

7. I cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the brisket is fork-tender.

8. I remove the brisket and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing against the grain.

9. I spoon some of the cooking juices over the sliced brisket before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
Total Time: Approximately 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add carrots and potatoes to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal. When I want a smoky flavor, I stir in a small amount of liquid smoke. I also enjoy using a dry rub and finishing the brisket under the broiler for a caramelized crust. For a sweeter twist, I increase the brown sugar slightly.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I also freeze portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, I warm the brisket gently in a covered skillet or oven with some of the reserved juices to keep it moist.

FAQs

Do I need to sear the brisket first?

I prefer searing because it adds deeper flavor, but I can skip this step if I’m short on time.

How do I know when the brisket is done?

I check that it is fork-tender and easily slices without resistance.

Should I slice or shred the brisket?

I usually slice it against the grain, but I shred it if I’m using it for sandwiches or tacos.

Can I cook brisket overnight?

I often cook it on low overnight so it’s ready the next day.

What can I serve with slow cooker brisket?

I like serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or crusty bread.

Conclusion

I find Slow Cooker Beef Brisket to be one of the most satisfying and reliable meals I can prepare. The long, slow cooking process creates tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for many occasions. It’s a recipe I turn to whenever I want something hearty, comforting, and effortlessly delicious.