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This classic slow cooker beef brisket recipe is a comforting, high-protein meal that blends tender, slow-cooked beef with creamy, velvety mashed potatoes, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Beef brisket has long been a staple in many kitchens, celebrated for its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked properly.
Slow-cooked beef brisket is renowned for its melt-in your mouth texture, making it one of the most cherished dishes in American cuisine.
The art of slow cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully, letting the meat absorb spices, herbs, and the smoky essence of a perfectly balanced marinade.
In our beef brisket slow cooker approach, each hour adds layers of complexity, building up to a final product that is both tender and bursting with savory notes.
The pairing of garlic mashed potatoes with the beef brisket is no accident. The creaminess of the potatoes provides a soft counterpoint to the robustness of the brisket.
When I serve this dish to friends and family, I see not just smiles but a shared appreciation for a meal that has been prepared with care and tradition.
✅ Read the entire article to ensure you’re fully prepared with all the necessary equipment and ingredients. The full recipe and cooking instructions are below.
Key Ingredients for Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Here are the main ingredients used for the beef brisket recipe slow cooker:
1. Beef Brisket
- The star of the dish! Brisket is a tough cut from the cow’s chest, but when slow-cooked, its collagen breaks down into gelatin, making it melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Look for a well-marbled piece (point cut for juiciness, flat cut for leaner but still tender results).
2. Beef Broth & Red Wine
- The liquid base for braising. Beef broth adds depth, while red wine (optional) adds complexity and a hint of acidity that balances the richness of the meat.
3. Worcestershire Sauce
- These umami-packed ingredients create a savory, slightly sweet glaze that coats the brisket beautifully.
4. Aromatic Spices & Seasonings
- A mix of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin not only seasons the meat but also builds a robust flavor profile that is essential for a perfect beef brisket recipe slow cooker.
5. Garlic & Onions
- Fresh onions and garlic are key for sautéing and forming the base of the braising liquid. Garlic infuses the brisket with bold flavor, while onions soften into a sweet, jammy texture.
6. Potatoes
- Starchy potatoes such as Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal. They break down smoothly when cooked, creating a creamy base for garlic mashed potatoes.
7. Butter & Heavy Cream
- These ingredients enrich the mashed potatoes, providing creaminess and a luxurious mouthfeel while balancing the robust flavors of the beef.
Equipment Needed for Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe
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- Slow Cooker or Dutch Oven: The backbone of the recipe, a slow cooker or Dutch oven allows for even, low-temperature cooking that transforms the brisket into a tender, juicy masterpiece.
- Large Skillet: Necessary for searing the brisket to develop a caramelized crust and for sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic, which contribute to the overall flavor depth.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Essential for safely and efficiently trimming the brisket and slicing vegetables. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for even cooking.
- Large Pot: Used for boiling the potatoes along with garlic, this pot helps prepare the perfect base for smooth, flavorful mashed potatoes.
- Meat Thermometer: A reliable meat thermometer is invaluable to check the internal temperature of the brisket. This ensures the meat is cooked to perfection and safe to eat while maintaining its tenderness.
- Potato Masher or Fork: A trusty potato masher (or a strong fork) is needed to mash the potatoes to the right consistency, ensuring they’re creamy without being lumpy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: These help in achieving precise seasoning and liquid measurements, which are crucial for balancing flavors throughout the cooking process.
Nutritional Benefits of Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket
Slow-cooked beef brisket is packed with essential nutrients, including:
- High Protein: Beef brisket is a great source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. This makes it a filling and nourishing main dish.
- Rich in Iron: Beef is an excellent source of heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the body. Iron plays a vital role in transporting oxygen in the blood, helping prevent anemia.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients like garlic and onions are loaded with antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress and support overall well-being.
- Collagen & Gelatin: Slow cooking breaks down collagen into gelatin, which supports skin health, joint function, and tissue repair.
- Vitamins: This beef brisket recipe includes vitamin-rich components such as garlic, onions, and potatoes, providing essential vitamins like vitamins C, B6, and others.
- Rich in Potassium and Zinc: Potatoes provide potassium which is important for heart and muscle function, while beef brisket offers zinc, a key mineral for immune support and metabolism.
What to Serve with Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket?
This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides, enhancing its flavors and making it a delicious complete meal:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the brisket and mashed potatoes.
- Cauliflower Mash: For a lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, creamy cauliflower mash offers a similar texture with fewer carbs.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Consider serving seasonal vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. Their natural crunch and vibrant colors add both texture and nutritional balance to the meal.
- Red Wine Pairing: A robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec, can complement the depth of flavors in the brisket. For non-alcoholic options, consider a deep, rich grape juice or a complex berry-infused iced tea.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, creamy coleslaw provides a satisfying crunch and a zesty contrast to the tender meat.
- Brisket Tacos: Shred the slow-cooked brisket leftovers, tossed in BBQ sauce, and piled into tortillas with slaw.
- Brisket Sandwiches: Layer sliced brisket on crusty bread with horseradish mayo for a hearty, portable option.
- Brisket Poutine: Top crispy fries with brisket and cheese curds, then drizzle with gravy for a decadent twist on a classic dish.
- Brunswick Stew: Serve the brisket alongside a warm bowl of Brunswick stew for a comforting, Southern-inspired meal.
- Braised Greens: Rich, slow-braised greens like collard or mustard greens add an earthy complement to the dish.
- Kale & Quinoa Salad: A nutrient-packed salad with kale and quinoa brings a modern, healthy twist to the meal, balancing the richness of the brisket.
Quick Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Brisket
- Rest is Key: Allowing the brisket to rest after cooking enhances its juiciness.
- Low and Slow: Remember, the secret to a tender beef brisket is cooking it on low heat for an extended period.
- Searing Magic: Never skip searing the brisket; it’s the cornerstone of flavor.
- Customization: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables (like carrots or celery) to the braising liquid for an extra layer of taste.
- Consistency: For garlic mashed potatoes use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for a smoother texture.
- Make-Ahead: Both the brisket and mashed potatoes can be made ahead and reheated, making this dish perfect for busy days.
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As a chef, I believe that every dish tells a story, one of tradition, innovation, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
The beef brisket, slowly cooked to perfection, exudes warmth and character, while the garlic mashed potatoes provide a velvety contrast that elevates the entire dish.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook trying your hand at something new, let this beef brisket slow cooker recipe inspire you to embrace the art of slow cooking and enjoy the journey from preparation to that first delicious bite.
Remember, the secret to great cooking is to be patient, trust your instincts, and always taste as you go.
Bon Appétit!
Classic Slow Cooked Beef Brisket with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Description
This classic slow-cooked beef brisket with garlic mashed potatoes is a comforting, high-protein meal that blends tender, slow-cooked beef with creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
For the Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Cooking Instructions
Prepping Your Brisket
Trim and Season
- Remove the beef brisket from the packaging and pat dry with paper towels.
- Then trim the excess fat from your beef brisket, leaving just enough to ensure flavor.
- Generously season the meat on all sides with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
- This step is crucial for a beef brisket recipe slow cooker that’s bursting with flavor.
Rest and Absorb
- Allow the seasoned brisket to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- This helps the spices adhere better and lets the meat start to warm slightly, which promotes even cooking.
Sear for Maximum Flavor
Heat the Oil
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the brisket.
Sear Each Side
- Sear the brisket on all sides for 4-5 minutes per side until it develops a rich, brown crust.
- This step is essential in a slow cooked beef brisket as it locks in the juices and enhances the overall depth of flavor.
Transfer to Slow Cooker
- Once seared, transfer the brisket into your slow cooker or a Dutch oven if you plan to finish it in the oven.
Make the Base
Sauté Onions and Garlic
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic.
- Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant for about 3-4 minutes.
Deglaze the Pan
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and allow it to simmer for a minute, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
- These bits are packed with flavor!
Combine Liquids
- Pour the sautéed mixture over the brisket in the slow cooker.
- Add low-sodium beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and fresh thyme or rosemary.
- This liquid will slowly transform your brisket into a tender, savory delight.
Slow Cook to Perfection
Set the Slow Cooker
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat.
- Allow the brisket to cook slowly for 8-10 hours.
- The long cooking time is what transforms the meat into a melt-in your mouth slow cooker beef brisket.
Oven Option
- If you prefer to slow cook your brisket in the oven, preheat your oven to 275°F/135°C.
- Place your Dutch oven with the brisket and braising liquid in the oven and cook for 4-5 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
Monitor and Baste
- Periodically check on your brisket, basting it with the juices to maintain moisture and flavor.
Preparing the Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Boil the Potatoes and Garlic
- In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and garlic cloves.
- Cover with water and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil and let simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 20 minutes).
Drain and Mash
- Drain the water and return the potatoes and garlic to the pot.
- Add butter, and slowly pour in the milk or cream while mashing until you reach your desired smoothness.
Season and Garnish
- Season with additional salt and pepper.
- Optionally, stir in freshly chopped chives for an extra burst of flavor.
Plating and Serving
Rest the Brisket
- Once the brisket is perfectly tender, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- This step ensures the meat retains its juices when sliced.
Slice and Serve
- Slice the brisket against the grain into thick, generous slices.
- Plate a generous serving of garlic mashed potatoes and top with slices of beef brisket.
- Drizzle with the remaining braising juices.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary for a refined finish.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
Serving Size 1½ cups of garlic mashed potatoes with 4 ounces of tender beef brisket per plate
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 650kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 35g54%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Cholesterol 130mg44%
- Sodium 850mg36%
- Potassium 980mg29%
- Total Carbohydrate 42g15%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 48g96%
- Vitamin A 1200 IU
- Vitamin C 12 mg
- Calcium 90 mg
- Iron 5.2 mg
- Vitamin D 45 IU
- Vitamin K 15 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Ensure the beef brisket is seared evenly on all sides to lock in juices and develop a flavorful crust.
- Maintain a low cooking temperature to allow the meat to break down slowly without drying out.
- Periodically baste the brisket with its own juices to keep it moist throughout the cooking process.
- Don’t rush the sautéing of onions and garlic; these ingredients build the flavor foundation for the braising liquid.
- Allow the brisket to rest after cooking so the juices redistribute, making the meat even more tender.
- For garlic mashed potatoes, ensure the potatoes are fully tender and mash gradually to avoid a lumpy consistency.
- Taste the braising liquid and mashed potatoes as you go; adjust salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
- Monitor cooking times closely, especially in the slow cooker or oven, to ensure the meat reaches perfect tenderness.
- Handle hot pans and liquids with care to prevent burns or spills during the cooking process.
