Best Slow Cooker Brisket Recipe | Tender Juicy Beef Dinner
Make the best slow cooker brisket with this easy recipe. Tender, juicy beef cooked low and slow in savory seasonings — perfect for holidays, family meals, or cozy comfort food dinners.
Equipment
- Slow cooker (6–8 quart)
- Skillet (for searing)
- Cutting board & knife
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Tongs
- Ladle (for serving sauce)
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb beef brisket, trimmed
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for searing)
- Optional: ½ cup barbecue sauce, 2 tbsp tomato paste, or 2 tbsp soy sauce for flavor variations
Instructions
- Prep: Trim brisket, slice onions, and mince garlic.
- Sear: Heat oil in skillet. Brown brisket on all sides until crust forms.
- Layer: Place onions and garlic in slow cooker. Add brisket, broth, Worcestershire, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low 8–10 hours or high 5–6 hours. Do not lift lid during cooking.
- Finish: Remove brisket, rest 10 minutes, then slice against the grain.
- Serve: Spoon cooking liquid and onions over slices. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or bread.
Notes
- Make-ahead: Cook brisket a day in advance; reheat gently for deeper flavor.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days; freeze up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Oven at 325°F covered with foil for moisture; microwave for quick portions.
- Variations: Add barbecue sauce for smoky sweetness, red wine and herbs for holiday flair, or soy sauce and ginger for Asian-inspired depth.
- Pro Tip: Always slice against the grain for tender bites.