Go Back
Delicious slow cooked beef brisket served with sides

Slow Cooked Beef Brisket

A hearty and satisfying dish featuring tender, juicy beef brisket infused with rich flavors, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours 40 minutes
Total Time 8 hours
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4–5 lb beef brisket Fat cap trimmed
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Seasoning/Spice Blend

  • 2 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme

Aromatics & Vegetables

  • 2 yellow onions, sliced
  • 5 cloves fresh garlic, smashed

Optional Finishing Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp liquid smoke Optional
  • 1 tbsp espresso powder Optional

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Start by patting the brisket dry with paper towels.
  • Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.

Mixing

  • In a bowl, combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and dried thyme.

Searing

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the brisket for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.

Slow Cooking

  • Transfer the brisket to a slow cooker, arrange the sliced onions and smashed garlic around it, followed by the mixed spice blend.
  • In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and optional liquid smoke or espresso powder.
  • Pour over the brisket and cover the slow cooker.
  • Cook on low for 7-8 hours until the brisket is fork-tender.

Serving

  • Once cooked, slice the brisket against the grain for maximum tenderness.
  • Serve with the juices from the slow cooker.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the broth. Freezing leftovers is possible for up to 3 months.
Keyword Beef Brisket, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Hearty Meals, Slow Cooker