Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

The Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever is perfect for any occasion, from backyard barbecues to festive family gatherings. This recipe combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavor, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned grillmasters alike. The result? A tender, juicy brisket with a delightful smoky crust that’s sure to impress your guests.

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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 Brisket Baste
• For the Brisket Rub
• How to Make Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever
• Step 1: Start Your Grill
• Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
• Step 3: Prepare the Brisket Rub
• Step 4: Season the Brisket
• Step 5: Place Brisket on Grill
• Step 6: Cook Until Temperature Reaches 160°F
• Step 7: Make Your Baste Mixture
• Step 8: Wrap Brisket in Foil
• Step 9: Continue Cooking Brisket
• Step 10: Let It Rest
• Step 11: Slice and Serve
• Bonus Tip!
• How to Serve Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever
• With Classic BBQ Sauce
• On a Sandwich
• Accompanied by Coleslaw
• With Pickled Vegetables
• Served with Cornbread
• As Part of a Charcuterie Board
• How to Perfect Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever
• Best Side Dishes for Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever
• Reheating Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long does it take to smoke brisket?
• What type of smoker is best for this recipe?
• Can I use other cuts of meat?
• How do I know when my brisket is done?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and requires minimal effort.
• Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with rich, smoky flavors thanks to the unique brisket rub and baste.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe serves up to 12 people, making it great for parties or family dinners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, as a sandwich, or in tacos—perfect for any meal plan!
• Impressive Results: Achieve a restaurant-quality brisket at home without complicated techniques.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking the best easy smoked brisket, gather the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth process.

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 temperature control and excellent smoke flavor.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures that the brisket reaches the perfect internal temperature for optimal tenderness.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the spices and baste ingredients easily.

Ingredients

The Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever features a selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients.

For the Brisket

• 1 15 lb brisket

For the Brisket Baste

• 1 cup beer
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup beef stock
• 5 tbsp butter (melted)

For the 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: Start Your Grill

When ready to cook, start the Traeger grill on Smoke (Super Smoke for the Timberline grill) with the lid open until the fire is established (about 4 to 5 minutes).

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Set the temperature to 225 degrees F and preheat, lid closed, for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Brisket Rub

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

Step 4: Season the Brisket

Generously season all sides of the brisket with your prepared rub mixture.

Step 5: Place Brisket on Grill

Put the brisket on the grill grate with the fat side down.

Step 6: Cook Until Temperature Reaches 160°F

Cook the brisket until it reaches an internal temperature of approximately 160 degrees F (about 3-4 hours).

Step 7: Make Your Baste Mixture

While your brisket is cooking, combine:
1. Beer
2. Apple cider vinegar
3. Beef stock
4. Melted butter

This will be your delicious brisket baste.

Step 8: Wrap Brisket in Foil

Once your brisket reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F, remove it from the grill. Double wrap it in aluminum foil and pour your prepared baste around the meat within the foil packet.

Step 9: Continue Cooking Brisket

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

Step 10: Let It Rest

Once finished, remove from grill, unwrap from foil, and let rest for about 15 minutes.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

Cut against the grain into slices and serve hot. Enjoy!

Bonus Tip!

If you can’t get enough of smoked dishes, check out all our recipes for more grilling inspiration! For mastering this delicious cut of meat from beginning to end, don’t forget to view our ultimate guide on how to smoke brisket.

How to Serve Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

Serving smoked brisket can elevate any meal. This delicious cut of beef pairs wonderfully with various sides and sauces. Here are some great suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Classic BBQ Sauce

• A tangy, sweet BBQ sauce complements the smoky flavor perfectly. Drizzle it over slices for an added kick.

On a Sandwich

• Serve sliced brisket on a fresh bun with pickles and mustard. It makes a hearty lunch that’s easy to enjoy on the go.

Accompanied by Coleslaw

• The crunchiness of coleslaw balances the tenderness of the brisket. This classic pairing adds freshness to your plate.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Add some tang with pickled cucumbers or onions on the side. They provide a zesty contrast to the rich meat.

Served with Cornbread

• Cornbread is a delightful side that soaks up juices and adds sweetness, making it a perfect match for brisket.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include slices of brisket on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, nuts, and fruits. It creates an impressive spread for gatherings.

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How to Perfect Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

To master the art of smoking brisket, consider these helpful tips for achieving tender and flavorful results.

• Choose quality meat: Start with a well-marbled brisket for better flavor and tenderness.
• Use a good rub: Generously season the meat with your favorite brisket rub before cooking; this will enhance the smoky taste.
• Monitor cooking temperature: Keep your grill at a consistent 225 degrees F for even cooking throughout.
• Rest your meat: Allowing the brisket to rest after cooking helps redistribute juices, ensuring every bite is juicy.
• Slice against the grain: Cutting against the grain makes for more tender slices, enhancing the overall eating experience.
• Experiment with wood types: Different woods like hickory or mesquite can add unique flavors; don’t hesitate to try various options.

Best Side Dishes for Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

Pairing side dishes with smoked brisket can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some excellent choices that complement this mouthwatering dish.

1. Baked Beans: Rich and savory beans add sweetness and texture, making them a traditional favorite alongside brisket.
2. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac ‘n’ cheese provides comfort food vibes, balancing out the smokiness of the meat.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add freshness and color to your plate while being healthy.
4. Potato Salad: A classic cold dish that offers creaminess alongside smoky warmth; it’s always popular at gatherings.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with smoky flavors, especially when grilled or roasted.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These creamy potatoes make an ideal base for enjoying any drippings from your brisket.
7. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and zesty dressing provide a refreshing contrast to hearty smoked meat.
8. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crunchy fried green tomatoes add southern charm and crunch next to succulent brisket slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever, there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Avoid these mistakes for a delicious outcome.

• Not trimming the brisket properly: Failing to trim excess fat can lead to an overly greasy brisket. Make sure to remove some fat while leaving enough for flavor.

• Skipping the rub: A good rub adds depth and flavor. Always season your brisket generously to enhance the taste of your smoked meat.

• Incorrect temperature management: Cooking at too high a temperature may dry out your brisket. Maintain a steady 225 degrees F throughout the cooking process.

• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the brisket immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes to lock in moisture.

• Overcomplicating the baste: While a baste adds flavor, too many ingredients can overwhelm. Stick to simple combinations like beer and vinegar for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor.

Freezing Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

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

Reheating Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever

• Oven: Preheat oven to 325 degrees F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock or water if needed, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions readers have about the Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever.

How long does it take to smoke brisket?

Smoking time is approximately 6-8 hours total, depending on the size and thickness of your brisket.

What type of smoker is best for this recipe?

A pellet smoker or offset smoker works well for achieving that rich smoky flavor essential in the Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes, you can try this method with other cuts like chuck roast or pork shoulder, but cooking times will vary.

How do I know when my brisket is done?

The internal temperature should reach around 204 degrees F for tender, juicy meat that’s easy to slice.

Final Thoughts

The Best Easy Smoked Brisket Recipe Ever offers a delightful balance of smoky flavors and tender meat, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize the rub or baste according to your taste preferences, ensuring a unique creation every time you prepare this dish. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile recipe!