BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are a delightful fusion of smoky, tender brisket and gooey cheese, all sandwiched between crispy sourdough bread. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or any casual get-together, these melts serve up comfort food at its finest. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress and satisfy. With easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll find that making these BBQ Brisket Melts is both fun and rewarding.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Brisket
• For the Onions and Bread
• For Assembly
• How to Make BBQ Brisket Melts
• Step 1: Prepare the Brisket
• Step 2: Smoke the Brisket
• Step 3: Rest the Brisket
• Step 4: Caramelize Onions
• Step 5: Assemble the Melts
• Step 6: Toast the Sandwiches
• How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts
• Classic Pairings
• Creative Additions
• Meal Presentation
• How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts
• Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts
• Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes BBQ Brisket Melts special?
• Can I use other types of bread for my BBQ Brisket Melt?
• How do I customize my BBQ Brisket Melt?
• Can I prepare the brisket ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor: The smoky brisket paired with melty cheese creates an incredible taste sensation.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice cooks can prepare this delicious dish with confidence.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, these melts fit right in.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the toppings and sauces to suit your personal taste.
• Feed a Crowd: This recipe serves four hearty sandwiches, making it ideal for sharing.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create your BBQ Brisket Melts.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet Smoker: This tool ensures that your brisket gets that perfect smoky flavor while maintaining tenderness.
• Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for toasting the melts evenly, giving them a nice crisp texture on the outside.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife will help you slice the brisket easily and uniformly for stacking in your sandwich.

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 and Bread

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

For Assembly

• 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 with hickory pellets, placing a water pan underneath for moisture.
2. Smoke for 9-10 hours until internal temperature reaches 165-170 degrees.
3. Wrap in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow, then smoke at 250 degrees until reaching 204-206 degrees.

Step 3: Rest the Brisket

1. Once cooked, rest wrapped brisket in a cooler for 2-3 hours to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Caramelize Onions

1. Sauté diced onions with avocado oil, kosher salt, and butter until they become caramelized and golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Melts

1. Start by layering sourdough bread with fried onions, Colby jack cheese, sliced brisket, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, provolone cheese, and top with another slice of sourdough.

Step 6: Toast the Sandwiches

1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Toast each sandwich in butter for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Enjoy your BBQ Brisket Melts! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are a delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. They can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience.

Classic Pairings

• Pickles – The tartness of pickles complements the rich flavors of brisket.
• Potato Chips – A crunchy side that adds texture and is easy to grab.
• Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the smoky brisket.

Creative Additions

• Jalapeños – Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick that enhances the flavor profile.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the savory brisket.
• Hot Sauce – Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for extra heat and flavor.

Meal Presentation

• Serving on a Board – Present the melts on a wooden board for a rustic feel.
• Accompany with Dips – Serve with extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

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How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

Creating perfect BBQ Brisket Melts requires attention to detail and some cooking know-how. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Choose high-quality brisket and fresh bread for the best flavor.
• Ideal Smoker Temperature – Maintain a consistent smoking temperature for even cooking.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the brisket to rest helps retain its juices, resulting in a moist melt.
• Layer Flavors Well – Don’t skimp on layering cheeses, onions, and sauces for maximum taste.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

Pairing BBQ Brisket Melts with sides can enhance your meal. Consider these delicious options:

1. French Fries – Golden, crispy fries are always a hit alongside any sandwich.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread balances the savory flavors of brisket perfectly.
3. Baked Beans – The sweetness of baked beans complements the smoky notes of the melt.
4. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Colorful grilled veggies add brightness and nutrition to your plate.
6. Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad provides a cool contrast to hot melts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Brisket Melts, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to watch for.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the brisket can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to apply your mustard binder and let it absorb the seasoning for a couple of hours.
• Neglecting temperature control: Cooking at inconsistent temperatures can ruin your brisket. Use a meat thermometer to ensure consistent cooking throughout the smoking process.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the brisket too soon can cause juices to escape. Allow the meat to rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours for optimal tenderness.
• Using stale or low-quality cheese: The cheese quality affects meltiness and flavor. Always opt for fresh, high-quality cheeses like Colby jack and provolone for the best BBQ Brisket Melts.
• Overstuffing the sandwich: While it’s tempting, overfilling your melt can make it difficult to eat. Balance your ingredients so each bite is delightful without falling apart.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Brisket Melts in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts

• Wrap individual melts tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped melts in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping once until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making BBQ Brisket Melts.

What makes BBQ Brisket Melts special?

BBQ Brisket Melts combine tender smoked brisket with gooey cheese, crispy onions, and zesty BBQ sauce, creating a comforting sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I use other types of bread for my BBQ Brisket Melt?

Absolutely! While sourdough is delicious, you could also try using ciabatta or even brioche for a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my BBQ Brisket Melt?

You can add toppings like jalapeños or pickles for extra zest. Experiment with different types of cheese or barbecue sauces based on your preference.

Can I prepare the brisket ahead of time?

Yes! You can smoke the brisket a day prior and store it in the fridge. Just slice and assemble your melts when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Brisket Melts are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them according to your taste preferences by changing ingredients or adding toppings. This recipe is perfect for casual gatherings or cozy nights at home. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting delight!