Texas Barbecue Brisket

Prep: 720 min Cook: 510 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Tender, smoky Texas barbecue brisket with bold flavors, perfect for hearty meals and sandwiches. Suitable for gatherings and family dinners craving authentic Southern taste.

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Ingredients

  • 4 to 5 lb beef brisket
  • 1 Tbsp unseasoned tenderizing salt
  • 1/2 bottle liquid smoke
  • 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic salt
  • 1 tsp pepper

Instructions

  1. Rub the brisket with unseasoned tenderizing salt.
  2. Place the brisket in a pan, fat side up.
  3. Stir together liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the mixture over the meat and cover tightly with foil.
  5. Marinate in the refrigerator overnight.
  6. Cook in the oven at 350°F for 1 hour.
  7. Reduce the oven temperature to 200°F and cook for 7 to 8 hours.
  8. Slice the brisket across the grain to serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more intense flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or cayenne to the rub. If you don't have liquid smoke, you can substitute with a few drops of hickory or mesquite smoke flavoring for a similar effect. Ensure you allow the brisket to marinate overnight for optimal tenderness and flavor absorption, which is essential for great barbecue. This recipe is a fantastic alternative for fans of other beef recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the brisket with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a true Texas BBQ experience. Drizzle some extra Worcestershire sauce on top for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Savory Meatballs for a truly hearty meal. Consider serving pickles and onions on the side for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice the brisket and warm it gently in a low oven (around 250°F) or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Texas Barbecue Brisket contains roughly 20 calories, with 2g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value).

20 kcal 1% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 0.6g 1% DV
Carbs 2.8g 1% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 1g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 259.9mg 11% DV
Potassium 146mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 2.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 41.4mg 46% DV
Calcium 8.3mg 1% DV
Iron 0.3mg 2% DV
Diet fit High-protein 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 cook brisket on a grill instead of in the oven?

Yes, you can absolutely cook brisket on a grill. Use indirect heat and maintain a low temperature, ideally around 225°F to 250°F. This method will give you that smoky flavor, but be mindful of cooking times as they may vary compared to oven cooking.

What cut of brisket is best for this recipe?

The point cut of brisket is generally more marbled and flavorful, making it a great choice for this recipe. However, the flat cut can also work well if you're looking for leaner meat. Both cuts will yield delicious results when cooked slowly and properly.

Can I use a different type of meat?

While brisket is traditional for Texas barbecue, you can try using chuck roast or pork shoulder as alternatives. Keep in mind that cooking times may differ depending on the cut's size and fat content, so adjust accordingly to ensure tenderness.

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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