Can I cook the brisket on HIGH instead of LOW?

While you can use the HIGH setting, the best results come from a slow, gentle cook. The LOW setting keeps the beef moist and helps the connective tissue break down, for that signature tenderness. If you’re pressed for time, 5-6 hours on HIGH is possible, but expect a slightly less tender result.

Is it necessary to sear the brisket before adding to the slow cooker?

Searing adds a rich depth and caramelization, but it’s completely optional for this recipe’s ease and speed. The brisket will be deeply flavorful thanks to the chili sauce and soup mix, even without searing.

What’s the difference between chili sauce and ketchup?

Chili sauce (like Heinz) is thicker, tangier, and more complex than ketchup, with spices that perfectly complement the brisket. Using ketchup is not recommended, as the flavor and texture will be noticeably different.

Can I make this a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, brisket often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld. Store the cooked brisket in its sauce, and gently reheat before serving.

Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe

Description

This Slow Cooker Beef Brisket recipe is a flavorful and effortless dish perfect for a hearty family dinner. Tender beef brisket is slow-cooked with rich chili sauce and aromatic seasonings, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth meal with minimal prep time. Great for make-ahead meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

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Meat

3 lb. Beef brisket

Sauces & Seasonings

24 oz. Chili sauce
1 tsp. Garlic powder
1 packet onion soup mix
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Season the Beef: Generously season the beef brisket with salt and pepper on all sides to enhance flavor before cooking. Place the seasoned brisket into the bottom of your slow cooker.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour the chili sauce over the brisket, then sprinkle the garlic powder and onion soup mix on top. Use tongs or your hands to turn the brisket over several times, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce and seasonings.
Cook: Secure the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the brisket to cook for about 10 hours, until it’s tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
Serve: Once done, slice or shred the beef as desired and serve with sauce from the slow cooker. Enjoy hot with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

For best results, trim excess fat from the brisket before cooking.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This dish can be made ahead and reheated for easy meal prep.
Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
Calories: 585 kcal
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 1648 mg
Fat: 32 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 52 g
Cholesterol: 180 mg