Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aromas of caramelized BBQ brisket waft through your kitchen, you might find yourself caught in a delightful daydream of summer picnics and family gatherings. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Tender Slow-Cooked BBQ Brisket Sandwiches, a dish that promises to make every bite an indulgent experience. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is not just about flavor—it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. The brisket cooks slowly, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, while various sauce and bread options make it customizable for every palate. I can’t wait for you to discover how this dish can turn an ordinary dinner into something truly special. Ready to dive into a homemade adventure? Why will you crave this BBQ Brisket Sandwich? Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spices, sauces, and tender brisket creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Simplicity: With minimal prep and a slow cooker, you can relax while your sandwich cooks itself to perfection. Versatile Options: Customize with different sauces, bread types, or toppings, including classic coleslaw or even spicy Sriracha. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for a family dinner or a casual barbecue, this dish appeals to everyone—perfect for gatherings! Meal-Prepping Friendly: Make ahead of time and store leftovers to enjoy this delicious sandwich all week—just like with my Crock Pot BBQ recipe! BBQ Brisket Sandwich Ingredients For the Dry Rub Chili Powder – Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor. Paprika – Provides sweetness and vibrant color. Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor. Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the surface. Ground Cumin – Contributes a warm, earthy undertone. For the Brisket Beef Brisket (6 lbs) – Main protein; should be trimmed and patted dry for even cooking. Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Used for coating the brisket to help the rub adhere. For the Sauce Barbecue Sauce (3 cups) – For coating the brisket; can opt for sugar-free varieties for a low-carb version. Apple Cider Vinegar (¾ cup) – Adds acidity and balances sweetness in the sauce. Hot Sauce (1 ½ tsp) – For a kick of heat; adjust according to preference. For the Sandwich Assembly Burger Buns (12) – Soft brioche or gluten-free options work best, but other rolls can be used. Cheddar Cheese (12 slices) – Adds creaminess and richness when melted. Coleslaw (1 cup, optional) – Adds crunch and a tangy contrast to the savory brisket. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the perfect BBQ brisket sandwich that you won’t be able to resist! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tender Slow-Cooked BBQ Brisket Sandwiches Step 1: Prep Slow Cooker Start by preparing your slow cooker. Spray the bowl with no-stick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup later. This crucial step helps prevent the brisket from sticking, allowing for even cooking and easy serving once it’s perfectly tender. Step 2: Season Brisket In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, paprika, salt, brown sugar, and ground cumin to create a flavorful dry rub. Rub this mixture generously over the trimmed brisket, ensuring an even coating. Drizzle the brisket with olive oil, which helps the spices adhere and enhances the flavor of your BBQ brisket sandwich. Step 3: Cook Brisket Place the seasoned brisket fat side up in the slow cooker. Pour half of your barbecue sauce over the top, evenly covering the meat. Set the slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the brisket has reached an internal temperature of 190°F-205°F and is beautifully tender. Step 4: Rest and Shred After the brisket has cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 15 minutes—this is essential for juicy meat. Using two forks, gently pull apart the brisket into bite-sized pieces, preparing it for the ultimate BBQ brisket sandwich assembly. Step 5: Reabsorb Flavors Once shredded, return the pulled brisket to the slow cooker. Allow it to soak up the flavorful juices for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step ensures each bite of your BBQ brisket sandwich is bursting with deliciousness and perfectly moist. Step 6: Assemble Sandwiches Time to put together your tasty BBQ brisket sandwiches! Layer generous portions of the pulled brisket onto soft burger buns, and top with slices of cheddar cheese. If desired, add a scoop of crunchy coleslaw for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Serve your creations warm and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors! Storage Tips for BBQ Brisket Sandwich Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to retain the flavor and moisture of the BBQ brisket sandwich. Freezing: Keep cooked brisket in freezer-safe containers for 2-4 months. Make sure to vacuum seal or remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: For best results, reheat in the microwave covered with the brisket’s juices until warmed through, which helps maintain juiciness before enjoying your tasty BBQ brisket sandwich again. Assembling Fresh: If storing assembled sandwiches, consider keeping the brisket and buns separate until serving to avoid sogginess. This way, you can enjoy that delightful fresh taste! Make Ahead Options These Tender Slow-Cooked BBQ Brisket Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and marinate the brisket with the dry rub up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, cook the brisket in the slow cooker and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; to maintain quality, ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to prevent drying. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pulled brisket in the slow cooker with its juices for that juicy, tender texture. Assemble your sandwiches right before serving for the best experience, and enjoy effortless mealtime bliss! Expert Tips for the Best BBQ Brisket Sandwich • Trimming Brisket: Make sure to trim the brisket well before cooking. Excess fat can lead to greasy sandwiches, affecting the overall flavor and texture. • Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your brisket reaches between 190°F and 205°F. This range guarantees that the meat will be tender for shredding and perfect for your BBQ brisket sandwich. • Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step after cooking! Allowing the brisket to rest for 15 minutes keeps it juicy and succulent, enhancing the overall taste and texture of your sandwich. • Customization: Experiment with different sauces and toppings! Try adding garlic aioli or pickles for an extra kick to your BBQ brisket sandwich. • Serving Fresh: Assemble the sandwiches right before serving to maintain the bun’s integrity. This helps prevent sogginess and keeps every bite delightful! What to Serve with Tender Slow-Cooked BBQ Brisket Sandwiches? Elevate your meal with delightful sides and drinks that perfectly complement your savory BBQ brisket sandwiches. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the smoky brisket, providing a satisfying crunch. Classic Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy side cuts through the richness of the brisket, adding a refreshing texture to each bite. A simple coleslaw can become a star of the meal when paired with the brisket. The creaminess balances the dish while providing a delightful crispness. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a summery touch, and its juicy kernels pair well with the hearty flavors of the sandwiches. Baked Beans: These savory, sweet beans are a traditional favorite at BBQs, adding a warm, comforting side that complements the brisket. Imagine indulging in delicious, rich beans alongside your tender brisket sandwich. It truly rounds out the barbecue experience with every savory bite. Refreshing Lemonade: This zesty drink offers a perfect balance with the rich flavors of the brisket, cleansing the palate after each bite. Chocolate Chip Cookies: A sweet finish to your meal, these cookies provide a cozy, nostalgic end to a delightful BBQ dinner. Enjoy them warm for that added comfort! BBQ Brisket Sandwich Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! Spicy Twist: Substitute BBQ sauce with spicy Sriracha for a fiery kick. This will really elevate your brisket sandwich experience! Mustard-Based Sauce: Consider using a tangy mustard-based sauce instead of the typical BBQ for a unique flavor profile. It’s a delightful alternative that pairs beautifully with brisket. Low-Carb Bread: Use lettuce wraps or cloud bread to make this sandwich keto-friendly. This way, you can savor all the deliciousness without the carbs! Different Breads: Switch up the bread—try using potato rolls, Kaiser buns, or even slider buns for smaller portions. These options bring their own unique textures and flavors to the table. Cheese Alternatives: For a lighter option, swap cheddar with provolone or mozzarella. Each cheese brings a unique creaminess that adds to the overall delightful blend of flavors. Coleslaw Variations: Mix up your coleslaw by adding ingredients like apples or jalapeños for an unexpected crunch. Each mouthful can surprise your taste buds! Texture Experience: Instead of shredding the brisket, slice it for a firmer texture or chop it into bite-sized pieces for a different approach. Every bite becomes an adventure! Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley as a garnish before serving for added freshness. Nothing says homemade like a sprinkle of vibrant greens! With these variations, your BBQ brisket sandwiches can transform from one meal into a delightful journey every time you make them. Don’t forget to check out my delicious BBQ Chicken Mac for more enjoyable family-friendly recipes! Enjoy your cooking! BBQ Brisket Sandwich Recipe FAQs How do I select the perfect brisket? Absolutely! When choosing brisket, look for a cut that has a good amount of marbling, which means there’s fat interspersed within the muscle. This fat will melt during cooking, keeping the meat juicy and full of flavor. Aim for a brisket that weighs around 6 pounds, and don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for advice on the best cuts! What’s the best way to store leftover brisket? Very! Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s fully cooled before sealing to maintain its moisture. If you prefer to enjoy it later, consider freezing it. Place the cooked brisket in freezer-safe containers and it will last for 2 to 4 months! Can I freeze cooked BBQ brisket? Absolutely! To freeze your cooked brisket, allow it to cool completely. Then, slice or shred the brisket according to your preference. Pack the brisket tightly in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat. Why is my brisket tough despite cooking for a long time? I often encounter this too! If your brisket turns out tough, it may not have cooked long enough or might not have reached the proper internal temperature (190°F-205°F). Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check. Allowing it to rest after cooking is vital as well; rest it for at least 15 minutes to enhance its tenderness. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Very! If you’re serving your BBQ brisket sandwich to guests, be mindful of potential allergies to ingredients like gluten or dairy (from the buns and cheese). For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free buns and ensure your BBQ sauce is free of gluten. Always check sauce labels for added sugars or allergens. How do I reheat brisket while keeping it moist? To reheat your brisket without losing its juiciness, I recommend using the microwave. Place the brisket in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with its juices or a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method retains moisture and flavor beautifully! Melt-In-Your-Mouth BBQ Brisket Sandwich Recipe You’ll Love Savor the irresistible flavors of this BBQ brisket sandwich, perfect for any gathering or casual dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 hours hrsResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 10 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 12 sandwichesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dry Rub2 tbsp Chili Powder Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.2 tbsp Paprika Provides sweetness and vibrant color.1 tbsp Salt Essential for enhancing overall flavor.1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the surface.1 tbsp Ground Cumin Contributes a warm, earthy undertone.For the Brisket6 lbs Beef Brisket Main protein; should be trimmed and patted dry for even cooking.2 tbsp Olive Oil Used for coating the brisket to help the rub adhere.For the Sauce3 cups Barbecue Sauce For coating the brisket; can opt for sugar-free varieties for a low-carb version.3/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar Adds acidity and balances sweetness in the sauce.1 1/2 tsp Hot Sauce For a kick of heat; adjust according to preference.For the Sandwich Assembly12 pieces Burger Buns Soft brioche or gluten-free options work best.12 slices Cheddar Cheese Adds creaminess and richness when melted.1 cup Coleslaw Optional; adds crunch and a tangy contrast to the savory brisket. Equipment Slow Cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrep Slow Cooker: Spray the bowl with no-stick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup.Season Brisket: Mix chili powder, paprika, salt, brown sugar, and cumin to create a dry rub. Rub over the brisket and drizzle with olive oil.Cook Brisket: Place the brisket fat side up in the slow cooker. Pour half of the barbecue sauce over it. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.Rest and Shred: Remove brisket and let it rest for 15 minutes. Shred it using two forks.Reabsorb Flavors: Return shredded brisket to the slow cooker and let it soak in the juices for 10-15 minutes.Assemble Sandwiches: Layer pulled brisket onto burger buns, top with cheese, and add coleslaw if desired. Serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesTrimming the brisket well and allowing it to rest are essential for juicy sandwiches. Customize sauces and toppings for a delightful experience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
