Barbecued Beef Brisket

Prep: 240 min Cook: 270 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Tender, smoky beef brisket infused with rich barbecue flavors, perfect for gatherings or weekend dinners. The marinade enhances the meat's natural taste, while the slow roasting ensures a juicy, flavorful result. Topped with a tangy barbecue sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy barbecue lovers and meat enthusiasts alike.

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Ingredients

  • 4 to 5 lb. trimmed beef brisket
  • 1/2 tsp. onion salt
  • 1/2 tsp. celery salt
  • 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
  • 2 Tbsp. Liquid Smoke
  • 6 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 3/4 cup commercial barbecue sauce

Instructions

  1. Sprinkle beef with onion salt, celery salt, and garlic powder.
  2. Mix liquid smoke and Worcestershire sauce together and pour over the meat.
  3. Cover with foil and refrigerate several hours, turning once.
  4. Bake covered at 300°F for 4 to 4 1/2 hours.
  5. Pour barbecue sauce over beef and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, choose a well-marbled brisket to ensure tenderness. If you can’t find Liquid Smoke, try using smoked paprika for a similar flavor. Marinating overnight enhances the taste, so consider letting it sit longer. If you're short on time, a pressure cooker can speed up the cooking process, though traditional baking yields the best results, much like in Texas Barbecue Brisket.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the brisket against the grain for the most tender pieces. Serve it with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a true barbecue feast. It also pairs beautifully with cornbread or potato salad. For a unique twist, try serving it on a bun for a delicious sandwich, or enjoy it alongside Roast Turkey With Dressing for a festive meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through, adding a splash of barbecue sauce to keep it moist.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Beef Brisket contains roughly 16 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.

16 kcal 1% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.5g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.2g
Carbs 3.6g 1% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 1.9g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 143.3mg 6% DV
Potassium 204.6mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 0.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 13.4mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 4mg 4% DV
Calcium 29.2mg 2% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Season the brisket as directed, then place it in the slow cooker with the liquid smoke and Worcestershire sauce. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until tender. Finish with barbecue sauce just before serving for added flavor.

What kind of barbecue sauce should I use?

You can use your favorite commercial barbecue sauce, but consider a smoky or sweet variety to complement the brisket's flavors. Homemade sauces can also elevate the dish, allowing you to tailor the sweetness and spice to your liking. Browse more American recipes for inspiration on BBQ sauces.

How do I know when the brisket is done?

The brisket is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F to 205°F, which ensures it is tender. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the meat. If it’s not fork-tender, it may need more time in the oven.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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