When I made these Crockpot Barbecue Brisket Sandwiches, I couldn’t believe how much flavor was packed into such a simple recipe! The brisket practically melts in your mouth, and the barbecue sauce coats every bite in a sweet and tangy goodness.
The best part? The slow cooker does all the hard work, making it a perfect recipe to whip up while you sit back and relax. I paired mine with some crunchy coleslaw and dill pickles on a soft roll, and it was nothing short of incredible. If you’re ready for juicy, tender brisket sandwiches with minimal effort, this is the recipe for you.
Credit: iheartnaptime
Ingredients for Crockpot Barbecue Brisket Sandwiches
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this irresistible meal:
- 2 ½ lbs flat-cut brisket
Pro tip: Go for the flat-cut variety as it cooks more evenly and slices finer for sandwiches. - 1 small onion, sliced
Adds a delicious sweetness and enhances the brisket’s savory flavors. - ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
Helps tenderize the meat while adding a slight tang for balance. - 1 cup barbecue sauce
Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce if you want to go the extra mile. - 4 brioche or hamburger buns
Brioche is buttery and soft, but Hawaiian or French rolls work too! - 1 cup coleslaw
The crunchy texture complements the tender meat perfectly. - Sliced dill pickles
Optional but highly recommended for that zesty kick.
Note: This recipe makes 4–6 servings.
Variations
Feeling creative? These swaps and add-ins work wonders for customization:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for the sandwiches.
- Low-Sugar: Opt for a sugar-free barbecue sauce to keep it light.
- Extra Heat: Throw in a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes for some spice.
- Flavor Boost: Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Worcestershire sauce to the barbecue mix for depth.
- Pickle Alternatives: Bread-and-butter pickles or jalapeños are fun swaps for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Time
Know how to plan your cooking schedule with this quick breakdown:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Equipment You Need
Have these tools ready to make the process smooth and easy:
- 4–6 qt slow cooker: Perfect for evenly cooking and tenderizing the brisket.
- Cutting board and knife: To slice brisket and onion with ease.
- Mixing bowl: For blending the barbecue sauce and cider vinegar.
- Tongs: To handle the meat without breaking it apart too early.
- Toaster (optional): Toast the buns for a soft but slightly crisp texture.
How to Make Crockpot Barbecue Brisket Sandwiches?
Making this recipe is a breeze, even for beginners. Let’s break it down step-by-step.
Step 1: Prepare the Brisket
Take your brisket and place it in the slow cooker with the fat side up. This ensures that the fat bastes the meat as it cooks, keeping it moist and flavorful. Add the sliced onion on top for that added sweetness.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
Whisk together the barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. This blend brings a balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors. Pour this mixture evenly over the brisket and onions in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Brisket
Set your slow cooker to high and cover it with its lid. Cook the brisket for about 5 hours, or until it’s tender enough to shred easily with a fork. If you’re using the low setting, you can extend the cooking time to 8–9 hours.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once the brisket is cooked, allow it to rest for about 20 minutes. This step locks in the juices, ensuring you get maximum flavor in every bite. Slice it thinly against the grain for tender pieces.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast the buns if desired for added texture. Layer the sliced brisket generously on the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw, sliced pickles, and a drizzle of the reserved slow cooker sauce. Cover with the bun top, and your sandwich is ready!
Credit: 4sonrus
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
When I made this, I picked up a few tricks to take it to the next level:
- Don’t skip the resting time. It makes the brisket more tender and keeps it juicy.
- Toast the buns lightly. This prevents them from getting soggy and adds a bit of crunch.
- Make the coleslaw fresh. Freshly prepared slaw brings a crisp bite and balances the rich brisket.
- Save extra sauce. Use the reserved cooking liquid as a dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer. An internal temperature of 195-205°F ensures perfectly cooked brisket.
You can also enjoy a Chicken Scampi Recipe for another flavorful meal idea.
How to Serve Crockpot Barbecue Brisket Sandwiches?
Presentation and accompaniments can take these sandwiches up a notch. Serve the sandwiches with a generous helping of coleslaw on the plate, alongside crispy potato chips or fries. For extra flair, garnish the plate with pickles or freshly chopped parsley. If it’s a summer barbecue, pair them with corn on the cob, a chilled cucumber salad, or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For another hearty dish, try this Chicken with Garlic Mushroom Sauce Recipe that’s packed with savory flavors.
Nutritional Information
This hearty meal comes packed with flavor and nutrition. Here’s what to expect in one serving:
- Calories: 700
- Protein: 64g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fat: 23g
Make Ahead and Storage
Planning to make this in advance or store leftovers? Here’s how to do it right:
- Storage: Keep leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a zip-lock bag with the juices for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheating: Warm in a slow cooker on low or in a saucepan over medium heat with a little extra sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe really shines, and here’s why you’ll want to keep it on repeat:
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker takes care of everything while you relax.
- Rich and Tender: The brisket is juicy with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Flexible Variations: You can easily adapt it to match your dietary preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or simple family dinners.
- Beautiful Presentation: These sandwiches look as good as they taste.
Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a summer party hit, these Crockpot Barbecue Brisket Sandwiches are guaranteed to impress. Get ready to savor every bite. For a beef lover’s delight, you might also enjoy this Beef Recipe for your next meal inspiration.