Tender Brisket with Homemade Barbecue Sauce

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Few dishes can compete with the heartwarming comfort and smoky allure of a perfectly cooked brisket. Our Tender Brisket with Homemade Barbecue Sauce is the kind of meal that transforms any dinner into a celebration. With its deeply savory crust and a melt-in-your-mouth center draped in a sticky-sweet BBQ glaze, it’s a showstopper on any table.

This recipe walks the line between backyard BBQ and cozy kitchen comfort. Whether you’re slow-roasting in the oven or firing up the smoker, this brisket brings flavor that lingers long after the meal. Paired with a rich, tangy homemade barbecue sauce, it’s an experience you’ll want to revisit again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Tender Brisket with Homemade Barbecue Sauce

It’s got everything: bold flavor, a juicy bite, and that irresistible sticky crust. The brisket is seasoned generously, slow-cooked to tender perfection, then glazed with a homemade sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky. It’s simple enough for a weekend cook but impressive enough for a holiday spread.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making leftovers that only get better with time, this brisket never fails to impress.

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What Cut of Brisket Should I Use?

Go for the whole packer brisket if you want a combination of both the flat and the point—ideal for maximum tenderness and flavor. The flat is leaner, great for slicing, while the point is fattier and delivers that juicy, pull-apart texture we love.

If you’re buying from a butcher, ask for a brisket with good marbling and minimal trimming. The fat cap helps baste the meat during slow cooking, locking in moisture and flavor.

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Ingredients for the Tender Brisket with Homemade Barbecue Sauce

When you build flavor from the ground up, every ingredient matters. This brisket gets its bold taste from a carefully chosen mix of spices and a BBQ sauce that elevates the whole dish.

• Beef brisket (4-5 pounds) — The star of the show; look for one with good marbling.
• Brown sugar — Adds sweetness and caramelization to the rub and sauce.
• Smoked paprika — For a rich, smoky depth.
• Garlic powder & onion powder — Classic base for savory balance.
• Kosher salt & cracked black pepper — Enhances all other flavors.
• Cayenne pepper — Optional, for a subtle heat.
• Apple cider vinegar — For tang in the barbecue sauce.
• Tomato paste & ketchup — Builds a rich base for the sauce.
• Worcestershire sauce — Brings umami and complexity.
• Liquid smoke (optional) — Boosts smokiness if not using a smoker.
• Beef broth or water — Helps keep the brisket moist while cooking.

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How To Make the Tender Brisket with Homemade Barbecue Sauce

Step 1: Prep and Rub the Brisket

Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. Mix your spice rub (brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne). Rub generously over the brisket, pressing into all sides. Let it rest for at least 1 hour, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Sear for Crust

Preheat a large skillet or oven-safe pan to medium-high. Sear the brisket on all sides for 3-4 minutes to build a crust. This step adds flavor and texture.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Tenderness

Transfer to a roasting pan or Dutch oven. Pour in beef broth around the brisket, cover tightly with foil or a lid. Cook in the oven at 300°F for 4-5 hours, or until fork-tender.

Step 4: Make the Homemade Barbecue Sauce

In a saucepan, combine ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire, and spices. Simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Glaze and Broil

Once the brisket is done, remove the foil and brush the BBQ sauce all over the meat. Broil for 3-5 minutes until caramelized.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Let the brisket rest 15 minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

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Serving and Storing This Brisket

This recipe serves 8 to 10 people generously. It’s a fantastic option for weekend gatherings, potlucks, or make-ahead weekday dinners.

To store: Let the brisket cool, then slice and store in an airtight container with extra sauce. It keeps for up to 4 days in the fridge or can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheat gently in a covered pan with a splash of broth or sauce to keep it moist.

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What to Serve With Tender Brisket?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and fluffy, they soak up that BBQ sauce like a dream.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Charred sweetness meets smoky brisket in the best way.

Buttery Dinner Rolls

Perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce.

Classic Coleslaw

Crunchy and cool, the ideal contrast to warm, savory meat.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A crisp and caramelized veggie side that balances the richness.

Mac and Cheese

Comfort food on comfort food. No regrets.

Pickled Red Onions

Add a sharp, tangy bite to cut through the bold flavors.

Baked Beans

A BBQ staple that’s sweet, smoky, and hearty.

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Want More BBQ and Comfort Food Ideas?

If you loved this tender brisket, try these next:

• No Peek Beef Tips Recipe for a low-fuss dinner that’s ultra-satisfying.
• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne if you’re craving meat and pasta in perfect harmony.
• Beef Pasta in a Creamy Garlic Sauce for when you want something rich and indulgent.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a comforting twist on a weeknight favorite.

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Tried this brisket? Let me know how it turned out! Did you smoke it or oven-roast? Spice it up or keep it mellow?

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