Name: Slow Cooker Beef Brisket
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3–4 lb beef brisket (flat cut); 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup BBQ sauce

When it comes to comfort food that satisfies every craving, Slow Cooker Beef Brisket hits the mark with melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich, smoky flavor. Perfect for lazy Sundays, potlucks, or meal prep, this brisket is seasoned to perfection and slow-cooked until fork-tender, soaking in a robust sauce that clings to every bite.

This dish brings together the beauty of hands-off cooking and big flavor payoffs. Whether you’re making sandwiches, serving it alongside your favorite sides, or saving leftovers for the week, this brisket delivers every time. The low-and-slow method ensures juicy results, with minimal effort on your part.

What Cut of Beef Brisket Should I Use?

Flat cut brisket is your best bet for even cooking and slicing. It has a nice fat cap that melts down beautifully in the slow cooker, keeping the meat moist. Point cut is richer in fat and flavor, but a bit more challenging to slice neatly. Either will work, but flat cut is perfect for this recipe’s presentation.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Beef brisket: The star of the show. Choose a 3–4 lb flat cut with a good fat cap for flavor.

Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth without needing a smoker.

Garlic powder & onion powder: These dry seasonings provide foundational savory notes.

Brown sugar: Offers a touch of sweetness that balances the spices and enhances caramelization.

Salt & pepper: Essential for flavoring the meat all the way through.

Beef broth: Keeps the brisket moist and adds richness to the cooking liquid.

BBQ sauce: Use your favorite brand for bold, tangy, and slightly sweet glaze.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Step 1: Prep and Season

Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning blend all over the brisket.

Step 2: Sear the Brisket

(Optional but recommended) Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the brisket for 2–3 minutes per side to create a flavorful crust.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Place the brisket in the slow cooker. Pour the beef broth around (not over) the meat to avoid washing off the seasoning. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or until the brisket is fork-tender.

Step 4: Add the BBQ Glaze

About 30 minutes before serving, spread BBQ sauce over the brisket. Cover and let it cook on low for the remaining time.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Remove the brisket and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. Spoon some of the cooking juices over the top and serve.

How to Serve and Store This Tender Brisket

Slice the brisket thinly against the grain and serve with the juices spooned over. It pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or coleslaw. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth to retain moisture.