Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe

This Slow Cooker Beef Brisket recipe is a tender and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. Perfect for busy days or special gatherings, this recipe features a juicy beef brisket slow-cooked with caramelized onions, savory mushrooms, and a rich broth. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that will impress your family and guests. The brisket absorbs all the delicious flavors, making it an ideal dish for meal prepping or serving at dinner parties. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings, ensuring a personalized touch every time.

Ingredients

• 3 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 4 lb beef brisket
• 2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lb yellow onions (2 medium), sliced into thick strips
• 1 lb mushrooms, thickly sliced
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped (not pressed)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock or beef broth
• 2 ½ Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Brisket:
   • Generously season the brisket with 2 tsp of salt and 1 tsp of black pepper. Heat a large heavy skillet or cast iron pan over high heat. Add 1 Tbsp of olive oil and once hot, place the brisket (fat side down) in the pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until browned. Transfer the brisket to the slow cooker, placing it fat side up.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
   • In the same pan, add 1 Tbsp of olive oil and sauté the sliced onions for 5-7 minutes, until they become caramelized. Place the caramelized onions on top of the brisket in the slow cooker.
3. Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic:
   • Add more oil to the pan if necessary, and sauté the sliced mushrooms for about 5 minutes, until soft. Add the mushrooms to the slow cooker and sprinkle the chopped garlic over the top.
4. Prepare the Broth:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the brisket and vegetables in the slow cooker.
5. Slow Cook the Brisket:
   • Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, or until the brisket is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the brisket rest for 15 minutes with the lid on.
6. Shred and Serve:
   • Remove the brisket from the slow cooker, discard any excess fat, and shred the meat with forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker to soak up the juices, enhancing the flavor and keeping the meat tender. Serve the beef brisket with mushrooms, spooning the slow-cooked juices over the top.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Beef Brisket recipe is a hands-off, flavorful dish perfect for busy days or special occasions. With a rich combination of tender beef, caramelized onions, and savory mushrooms, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, this recipe is ideal for anyone craving comfort food. The slow cooking process makes the brisket melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the savory broth and Worcestershire sauce infuse the meat with deep flavor.

Tips

• Searing the Brisket: Don’t skip the searing step! It creates a flavorful crust on the meat, adding richness to the overall dish.
• Resting the Meat: Letting the brisket rest before shredding helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
• Use a Fat Separator: If you want to reduce the amount of fat in the sauce, use a fat separator to separate the fat from the liquid before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetables: Add other vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or potatoes for a heartier meal.
• Broth: Swap out chicken broth for beef broth for an even richer flavor.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth of flavor.
• Spices: Experiment with smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky kick.

FAQs

Can I cook the brisket on high instead of low? Yes, you can cook the brisket on high for about 4-5 hours, but cooking on low gives it a more tender result.

Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the brisket a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.

Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftover brisket and broth. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Serving

This Slow Cooker Beef Brisket pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice to soak up the delicious juices. It also works wonderfully in sandwiches or wraps with some horseradish or mustard.

Suggestions

• For extra flavor, serve the brisket with a drizzle of gravy made from the leftover cooking juices.
• Pair this dish with a side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced, comforting meal.