Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

The Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever is your ticket to mastering a delicious, smoky delicacy that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or preparing a comforting family dinner, this recipe will impress everyone with its crunchy exterior and juicy interior. With easy-to-follow steps, even beginners can create a mouthwatering brisket that bursts with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beginner-Friendly: This recipe simplifies the smoking process, making it accessible for anyone.
• Delicious Flavor: The unique blend of spices and baste adds layers of flavor to the brisket.
• Perfectly Juicy: Wrapping the brisket ensures it stays moist and tender throughout cooking.
• Great for Gatherings: With servings for 12, it’s ideal for parties or large family meals.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it on its own or as part of sandwiches, tacos, and more!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment will make your experience enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Traeger Grill: Provides consistent heat and smoky flavor that is essential for brisket cooking.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures your brisket reaches the perfect internal temperature without overcooking.
• Aluminum Foil: Keeps the brisket moist during the final cooking phase by trapping steam.

Ingredients

To make the Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever, you will need the following 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: Prepare the Grill

Start your Traeger grill on Smoke mode (Super Smoke for Timberline), leaving the lid open until you see flames (about 4 to 5 minutes).

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Set the grill temperature to 225 degrees F. Close the lid and let it preheat for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Rub

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Garlic powder
2. Onion powder
3. Paprika
4. Chili powder
5. Kosher salt
6. Coarse ground black pepper
7. Brown sugar

Mix these ingredients well until evenly combined.

Step 4: Seasoning the Brisket

Generously rub this seasoning mix on all sides of the brisket, ensuring an even coating.

Step 5: Start Cooking

Place your seasoned brisket fat side down on the grill grate. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F, which should take about 3-4 hours.

Step 6: Prepare the Baste

While waiting, combine:
1. Beer
2. Apple cider vinegar
3. Beef stock
4. Melted butter

This mixture will enhance your brisket’s flavor.

Step 7: Wrap and Baste

Once your brisket reaches 160 degrees F, remove it from the grill. Double wrap it in aluminum foil and pour some of your baste around it inside the foil packet.

Step 8: Final Cooking Stage

Return your wrapped brisket to the grill and cook until it hits an internal temperature of 204 degrees F (about another 3-4 hours).

Step 9: Resting Period

When done, remove from grill, unwrap carefully from foil, and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice against the grain and serve up this delicious smoked brisket masterpiece!

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

How to Serve Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

Serving your smoked brisket can elevate your dining experience. It pairs well with various sides and sauces that complement its rich, smoky flavor.

Classic BBQ Sauce

• Homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce adds a tangy kick that enhances the brisket’s taste.

Pickles and Onions

• These crunchy accompaniments provide a refreshing contrast to the tender meat.

Coleslaw

• A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw balances the savory richness of smoked brisket.

Sandwiches

• Serve sliced brisket on a bun with your favorite toppings for a delicious sandwich option.

Tacos

• Shred the brisket and serve it in warm tortillas with salsa and avocado for a fun twist.

Mac and Cheese

• Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort and richness, making it a perfect partner for smoked brisket.

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How to Perfect Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

Perfecting your smoked brisket can take practice, but these tips will help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Choose the right cut: Select a well-marbled brisket for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Use quality wood: Opt for hardwood like hickory or oak for authentic smoky flavor.
• Maintain steady temperature: Keep your smoker at 225 degrees F for even cooking.
• Wrap during cooking: Wrapping your brisket in foil after it reaches 160 degrees helps retain moisture.
• Let it rest: Allow the meat to rest post-cooking to ensure juices redistribute throughout.
• Slice against the grain: This technique enhances tenderness in each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

Pairing side dishes with your smoked brisket can enhance the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide a hearty side that complements smoky flavors.
2. Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread is perfect for soaking up juices from the brisket.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers a cool contrast to the warm, smoky meat.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent pairing.
6. French Fries: Crispy fries provide a satisfying crunch alongside tender brisket bites.
7. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, this dish absorbs flavors well and serves as a light side.
8. Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning the brisket can make it bland. Always ensure to apply a generous layer of rub for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the resting phase: Cutting into the brisket immediately after cooking can lead to dry meat. Always let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
• Incorrect temperature control: Cooking at too high a temperature can dry out the brisket. Maintain a steady 225 degrees F for optimal results.
• Using low-quality meat: A poor-quality brisket may not yield the best flavors. Opt for a well-marbled cut for juicy and tender results.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Relying solely on cooking time can be misleading. Use a meat thermometer to check that the brisket reaches 204 degrees F for perfect tenderness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

• Wrap the brisket tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

• Oven: Preheat to 250 degrees F, wrap in foil, and heat until warm (about 30-45 min).
• Microwave: Slice the brisket and place it in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of broth; heat in short bursts until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, adding some beef stock to keep it moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever that might help enhance your cooking experience.

How long does it take to smoke a brisket?

Smoking a brisket takes about 6-8 hours total depending on its size and desired tenderness.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can apply similar techniques to other cuts like pork shoulder or ribs using this method.

What wood is best for smoking brisket?

Hickory and oak are popular choices as they provide robust flavors that complement beef well.

How do I know when my brisket is done?

The best indicator is reaching an internal temperature of 204 degrees F, ensuring it’s tender and juicy.

Final Thoughts

The Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any gathering or family meal. Feel free to customize the rub or baste according to your taste preferences—experiment with different spices or liquids! We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy mouthwatering brisket bursting with smoky goodness!