Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

The Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever is your go-to dish for smoky, tender, and juicy brisket that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can master the art of smoking brisket!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make it simple for anyone to create delicious smoked brisket.
• Incredible Flavor: The combination of spices and the simmering brisket baste infuse the meat with mouthwatering smoky goodness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, holidays, or a weekend cookout, this brisket will be the star of the show.
• Impressive Presentation: Serving beautifully sliced brisket against the grain makes for an eye-catching dish that wows your guests.
• Leftover Bliss: Enjoy delicious leftovers that can be used in sandwiches, tacos, or even salads!

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with this recipe, certain tools are essential. These tools help streamline the cooking process and ensure your brisket turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Traeger grill (or smoker)
• Aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Traeger grill: This tool is vital for achieving that authentic smoky flavor while controlling the temperature precisely.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures you cook the brisket to the perfect internal temperature for tenderness without overcooking.
• Aluminum foil: Helps retain moisture during cooking and allows you to baste the brisket effectively.

Ingredients

For the Brisket

• 1 15 lb brisket

Brisket Baste:

• 1 cup beer
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup beef stock
• 5 tbsp butter (melted)

Brisket Rub:

• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp paprika
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp coarse ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

How to Make Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

Step 1: Start Your Grill

When ready to cook, start the Traeger grill on Smoke (Super Smoke for the Timberline grill) with the lid open until the fire is established (about 4 to 5 minutes).

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Set the temperature to 225 degrees F and preheat with the lid closed for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Your Rub

Mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, coarse ground black pepper, and brown sugar in a small bowl.

Step 4: Season Your Brisket

Generously season all sides of your brisket with the rub mixture.

Step 5: Place Brisket on Grill

Place the brisket fat side down on the grill grate.

Step 6: Cook Until Perfectly Tender

Cook the brisket until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F (about 3-4 hours).

Step 7: Make Your Baste

While cooking, combine beer, apple cider vinegar, beef stock, and melted butter in a bowl to create your brisket baste.

Step 8: Wrap and Baste

Once the brisket reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F, remove it from the grill. Double wrap it in aluminum foil and pour your prepared baste around it within the foil packet.

Step 9: Return to Grill

Return the wrapped brisket to the grill and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 204 degrees F (another 3-4 hours).

Step 10: Let It Rest

Once finished cooking, remove from grill and unwrap from foil. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.

Step 11: Serve

Cut against the grain into slices and serve. Enjoy!

Can’t get enough? Check out all our recipes! Master cooking this piece of meat from beginning to end by checking out our ultimate guide for how to smoke brisket.

How to Serve Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

Serving the Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever can elevate any gathering or meal. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this smoky and tender brisket.

Classic Sandwiches

• Use slices of smoked brisket between two pieces of soft bread for a hearty sandwich. Add your favorite BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Tacos

• Shred the brisket and serve it in warm tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for a flavorful taco.

Salads

• Slice the brisket thinly and toss it onto a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette to create a satisfying salad.

Platter

• Arrange sliced brisket on a large platter with pickles, onions, and your choice of sauces for an impressive spread.

Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips with shredded smoked brisket, cheese, jalapeños, and toppings like sour cream and guacamole for decadent nachos.

Breakfast Hash

• Dice the leftover brisket and sauté with potatoes, peppers, and onions for a smoky breakfast hash topped with eggs.

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How to Perfect Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

To achieve perfection in your smoked brisket, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the right cut: Select a well-marbled brisket for better flavor and tenderness.
• Use quality wood: Opt for hardwoods like oak or hickory for an authentic smoky taste.
• Monitor temperatures: Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise cooking; aim for 204 degrees F for optimal tenderness.
• Rest the meat: Allow your brisket to rest after cooking to let juices redistribute, ensuring juicy slices.
• Wrap it tightly: When using foil, ensure it’s wrapped tightly to lock in moisture during the final cooking stage.
• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to adjust the rub ingredients based on your taste preferences for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

Pairing side dishes with your smoked brisket can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this delicious main dish.

1. Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds freshness and balances the rich flavor of the brisket.
2. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are classic companions that add heartiness.
3. Cornbread: Soft cornbread is perfect for soaking up any juices from the brisket.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese provides comfort alongside smoky meat.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad offers a creamy texture that pairs well with smoked meats.
7. Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a sharp contrast that enhances each bite of brisket.
8. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is excellent for mopping up delicious sauces or juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Neglecting the Rub: Skipping or under-seasoning your brisket with the rub can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to apply it generously on all sides for a flavorful crust.
• Ignoring Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can dry out your brisket. Stick to 225 degrees F for optimal tenderness and flavor absorption.
• Not Using a Meat Thermometer: Guessing when your brisket is done can ruin your meal. Invest in a reliable meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the perfect internal temperatures of 160°F and 204°F.
• Rushing the Resting Period: Cutting into your brisket too soon will cause juices to run out, resulting in dryness. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
• Failing to Baste: Skipping the basting step can hinder moisture retention. Use the brisket baste regularly throughout cooking for a juicy result.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover brisket in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

• Wrap the brisket tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

• Oven: Preheat to 250°F and wrap in foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of beef broth for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever that might help you while cooking.

How do I select the best brisket cut?

Choose a well-marbled brisket with a good amount of fat on top. This ensures moisture during cooking.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on brisket, you can experiment with pork shoulder or ribs using similar methods.

What wood is best for smoking brisket?

Hickory or oak are great choices for smoking brisket, providing rich smoky flavors that complement beef beautifully.

How long does it take to smoke the brisket?

The total cook time for this recipe is about 7-8 hours depending on thickness and temperature consistency.

Final Thoughts

The Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever is not only delicious but also customizable. You can adjust spices or add different wood chips for unique flavors every time you make it. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal, so give it a try!