The Best Homemade Slow Cooker Brisket Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade brisket recipe is perfect for anyone who loves tender, juicy meat without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a meal that feels gourmet.
- Mouthwatering Flavor: The blend of spices and slow cooking creates a rich, smoky taste that’s hard to resist.
- Effortless Prep: Just season, sear, and let the oven do the work while you relax.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress everyone at the table, no matter the occasion.
Recipe

Brisket is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that becomes melt-in-your-mouth delicious when slow-cooked. This homemade brisket recipe delivers rich, smoky flavors with a perfectly caramelized crust.
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-5 lb) beef brisket, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Pat the brisket dry with paper towels and rub olive oil all over.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the brisket.
- Heat a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Add onions and garlic to the pot, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Pour in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits. Return the brisket to the pot, fat side up.
- Cover and transfer to the oven. Cook for 3-4 hours until fork-tender.
- Remove from oven, let rest for 15 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Notes:
- For extra smokiness, add 1 tsp liquid smoke to the broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Equipment:
- Dutch oven or large oven-safe pot
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer (optional)
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 4 hours
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6-8 people
Nutrition
Brisket is a rich source of protein and essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown for a standard serving of homemade brisket.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 kcal |
| Protein | 45 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade brisket with classic side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread for a comforting meal. Sometimes, I’ll mix it up with fresh salad pairings, like a tangy coleslaw or a crisp garden salad, to balance the richness. It’s all about finding what makes your taste buds happy.
Classic Side Dishes
When you’re serving up tender, smoky brisket, you’ll want sides that hold their own without stealing the show. Classic mashed potatoes are a must—creamy, buttery, and comforting. I love adding roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts for a caramelized, slightly sweet touch. Cornbread feels like a natural fit, with its crumbly texture and hint of sweetness. For something hearty, mac and cheese never disappoints, especially when it’s gooey and golden. Don’t forget pickles or coleslaw—they cut through the richness with a tangy crunch. These sides complement the brisket perfectly, making each bite feel complete without overwhelming the star of the meal.
Fresh Salad Pairings
While rich, hearty sides are a natural fit for brisket, a fresh salad can brighten up the plate and balance the meal. I love tossing together a crisp garden salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s light and invigorating, especially next to the savory brisket. Sometimes, I’ll add a citrusy twist with orange segments and a honey-mustard dressing. A Greek salad with olives and feta is another favorite—it’s bold but doesn’t overpower the main dish. Trust me, a salad isn’t just an afterthought; it’s the perfect way to round out your brisket feast.