BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. This mouthwatering sandwich combines tender, smoked brisket with layers of melted cheese and crispy onions, all nestled between slices of buttery sourdough bread. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a hearty meal, these melts deliver flavor and satisfaction that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of smoked brisket, tangy BBQ sauce, and rich cheeses creates an explosion of taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a casual cookout, BBQ Brisket Melts are sure to impress.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to modify the toppings or sauces to suit your personal preferences.
• Leftover Friendly: These melts are a fantastic way to use up leftover brisket from your last barbecue.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of BBQ Brisket Melts, gathering the right tools will streamline your cooking experience. With the proper equipment, you’ll be set up for success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pellet smoker
• Cast iron skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet smoker: This tool ensures even smoking at low temperatures for tender brisket.
• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for achieving that perfectly toasted crust on your melts while retaining heat effectively.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through the brisket easy and precise for assembly.

Ingredients

For the Brisket

• Brisket
• Mustard (as a binder)
• Favorite brisket rub (preferably pepper-forward)
• Hickory pellets (for smoking)
• Apple cider vinegar
• Beef tallow (3-4 tablespoons)

For the Onions

• 2 whole onions
• Avocado oil (2 tablespoons)
• Kosher salt (1 tablespoon)
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons plus more for toasting)

For Assembling the Melts

• Sourdough bread
• Fried crispy onions
• Colby jack cheese (2 slices)
• Provolone cheese (2 slices)
• Favorite BBQ sauce

How to Make BBQ Brisket Melts

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

1. Trim brisket of excess fat and apply mustard all over as a binder.
2. Season generously with a pepper-forward brisket rub and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Smoke the Brisket

1. Smoke on pellet smoker at 210 degrees using hickory pellets with a water pan underneath for 9-10 hours until it reaches 165-170 degrees.
2. Wrap in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow, then smoke at 250 degrees until it reaches 204-206 degrees.

Step 3: Rest the Brisket

1. Rest wrapped brisket in cooler for 2-3 hours before slicing.

Step 4: Caramelize Onions

1. Sauté diced onions with avocado oil, kosher salt, and butter until caramelized.

Step 5: Assemble Your Melts

1. Layer sourdough bread with fried onions, Colby jack cheese, brisket slices, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, provolone cheese, and top bun.

Step 6: Toast the Sandwiches

1. Toast in cast iron skillet with butter for about 3-4 minutes, flipping once until golden brown.

Enjoy your BBQ Brisket Melts! They’re not just sandwiches; they’re an experience that brings people together around great food.

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

Serving BBQ Brisket Melts can elevate your meal experience, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. These sandwiches are versatile and pair well with various accompaniments.

Pair with Pickles

• Pickles add a crunchy and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the brisket melt. Dill pickles work particularly well.

Offer Coleslaw

• A side of coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the melted cheese and brisket.

Serve with Sweet Potato Fries

• Sweet potato fries offer a sweet and savory element that complements the smoky flavors of the BBQ Brisket Melts.

Add a Side Salad

• A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette can lighten your meal and add a fresh touch alongside these hearty sandwiches.

Include Baked Beans

• Smoky baked beans are a classic BBQ side that pairs beautifully with brisket. Their sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile.

Pair with Macaroni and Cheese

• Creamy macaroni and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, creating a comforting meal that goes hand in hand with BBQ Brisket Melts.

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How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

To make your BBQ Brisket Melts even more delicious, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your sandwich.

• Choose high-quality brisket: Selecting fresh, well-marbled brisket ensures juicy, flavorful melts.
• Don’t rush the smoking process: Low and slow smoking allows for rich flavors to develop, making each bite extraordinary.
• Let it rest: Allowing the smoked brisket to rest helps retain moisture, leading to tender slices.
• Layer ingredients wisely: Start with cheese on the bottom to prevent sogginess from the BBQ sauce.
• Use fresh bread: Fresh sourdough adds texture and flavor while holding up against the hearty fillings.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add jalapeños or different cheeses for extra flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

When serving BBQ Brisket Melts, choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is a traditional summer favorite.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers comfort and pairs well with smoky flavors.
3. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy chips served with zesty salsa provide an enjoyable texture contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrients to your plate.
5. Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers add creaminess and richness that complement your melts.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich brisket.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Brisket Melts, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using Low-Quality Meat: Always choose a good-quality brisket. A well-marbled cut will yield a more flavorful and tender melt.
• Skipping the Rub: Don’t skip seasoning your brisket! A generous application of your favorite brisket rub can enhance the flavors significantly.
• Inadequate Smoking Time: Rushing the smoking process can lead to tough meat. Be patient and allow enough time for it to reach the right temperature.
• Forgetting to Rest the Brisket: Skipping the resting period can dry out your meat. Wrap it in butcher paper and let it rest for a few hours to retain moisture.
• Overloading the Sandwich: While toppings are great, too many can overwhelm the flavors. Balance is key; stick to a few well-chosen ingredients.
• Not Toasting Properly: Failing to toast the bread can result in soggy sandwiches. Use butter and a cast iron skillet for that perfect crunch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Brisket Melts in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwich on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add butter and cook the sandwich for about 4-5 minutes on each side until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about BBQ Brisket Melts that may help you during preparation.

How do I make BBQ Brisket Melts healthier?

You can make BBQ Brisket Melts healthier by using whole grain bread and reducing cheese portions. Adding extra veggies is another great option.

Can I use leftover brisket?

Absolutely! Leftover smoked brisket works perfectly in this recipe, saving you time while still delivering delicious flavors.

What type of cheese is best for BBQ Brisket Melts?

Colby jack and provolone are excellent choices as they melt beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella!

How do I customize my BBQ Brisket Melt?

You can customize your BBQ Brisket Melt by adding jalapeños, pickles, or even different sauces according to your taste preferences.

Can I prepare these melts ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to toast them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Brisket Melts are not only mouthwatering but also versatile! You can customize them with your favorite ingredients or sides. Whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner, these melts are sure to please everyone at your table. Give this easy recipe a try; you won’t regret it!