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BBQ Beef Brisket Sandwiches

BBQ beef brisket sandwiches - featured image

Tender, smoky beef brisket sandwiches perfect for summer BBQs, featuring a balanced sweet and tangy BBQ sauce and optional fresh toppings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds beef brisket (well-marbled)
  • 2 tbsp paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp molasses or honey
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Soft sandwich buns or brioche buns
  • Pickles (optional)
  • Coleslaw (optional)
  • Cheddar cheese slices (optional)
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil (for searing, optional)

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch for flavor and moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, mix paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Rub evenly all over the brisket, pressing into the meat. Let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C). For oven cooking, preheat to 275°F (135°C). For slow cooker, set on low.
  4. Place brisket fat side up on grate or pan. Insert meat thermometer probe into thickest part. Add wood chips every hour if using smoker or grill. Cook until internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C), about 6-8 hours (smoker/grill) or 8-10 hours (slow cooker).
  5. When temperature hits about 165°F (74°C), wrap brisket tightly in foil or butcher paper to retain moisture and speed cooking. Once fully cooked, remove from heat and let rest wrapped for at least 45 minutes.
  6. While brisket rests, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, molasses or honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Slice brisket thinly against the grain using a sharp knife.
  8. Toast buns lightly if desired. Assemble sandwiches by piling sliced brisket, spooning BBQ sauce, and adding optional toppings like pickles, coleslaw, or cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature for best results. Resting the brisket wrapped in foil is crucial for juicy meat. Slice against the grain for tenderness. Sauce can be made ahead and simmered gently to meld flavors. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or serve over greens. For low sugar, reduce brown sugar and use sugar-free BBQ sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ beef brisket, brisket sandwiches, smoked brisket, summer BBQ, BBQ sauce, easy brisket recipe