BBQ Brisket Melts
BBQ Brisket Melts are a delightful fusion of tender smoked brisket and gooey cheese, all nestled between crispy sourdough bread. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level. The rich flavors and satisfying textures make these melts a standout dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoked brisket, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheese creates an explosion of taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a barbecue, potluck, or a simple weeknight meal, these melts fit right in.
- Easy to Customize: Add your favorite toppings or sauces to make it your own!
- Satisfying and Filling: Each bite is packed with hearty ingredients that will leave you satisfied.
- Great for Leftovers: If you have any brisket left over, it’s even better the next day in these tasty melts.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this mouthwatering recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pellet smoker
- Cast iron skillet
- Butcher’s paper
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Pellet smoker: This allows for even smoking at controlled temperatures, resulting in perfectly cooked brisket.
- Cast iron skillet: Great for toasting the sandwiches evenly while giving them a delicious crust.
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 Sautéed Onions
- 2 whole onions
- Avocado oil (2 tablespoons)
- Kosher salt (1 tablespoon)
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons plus more for toasting)
For the Melts
- Sourdough bread
- 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
- Trim brisket of excess fat and apply mustard all over as a binder.
- Season generously with a pepper-forward brisket rub and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
Step 2: Smoke the Brisket
- Smoke on pellet smoker at 210 degrees with hickory pellets, placing a water pan underneath.
- Smoke for 9-10 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165-170 degrees.
- Wrap in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow.
- Increase temperature to 250 degrees and smoke until it reaches an internal temperature of 204-206 degrees.
Step 3: Rest the Brisket
- Let the wrapped brisket rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours.
Step 4: Sauté Onions
- Dice the onions.
- In a skillet, sauté diced onions with avocado oil, kosher salt, and butter until caramelized.
Step 5: Assemble the Melts
- Start with slices of sourdough bread.
- Layer fried onions, sliced brisket, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, Colby jack cheese, provolone cheese, and top with another slice of bread.
Step 6: Toast the Sandwiches
- In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, add butter.
- Toast each sandwich for 3-4 minutes on one side before flipping to toast the other side until golden brown.
Enjoy your BBQ Brisket Melts fresh off the skillet!
How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts
Serving BBQ Brisket Melts is all about enhancing their rich flavors and ensuring a satisfying meal. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious smoked treat.
Classic Side Pairings
- Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy coleslaw complements the richness of the brisket melt.
- Potato Chips – Crispy chips add a nice texture contrast and are perfect for snacking alongside.
- Pickles – Tangy pickles cut through the heaviness, providing a refreshing bite.
Gourmet Touches
- Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado adds a luxurious texture and flavor balance.
- Homemade BBQ Sauce – Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
- Fresh Herbs – Adding fresh cilantro or parsley can elevate the presentation and flavor profile.
Casual Gatherings
- Sliders – Cut the melts into smaller portions for easy sharing at parties.
- Charcuterie Board – Include the brisket melts on a board with cheeses, meats, and crackers for an elegant touch.
How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts
Crafting the perfect BBQ Brisket Melts involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your sandwich-making game.
- Seasoning – Use a generous amount of seasoning on your brisket for maximum flavor.
- Proper Resting Time – Allow the brisket to rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy and tender.
- Quality Bread – Opt for fresh sourdough that will hold up against the fillings without becoming soggy.
- Cheese Melting Technique – Cover the skillet while toasting to ensure even melting of the cheese.
- Toast Just Right – Aim for a golden-brown crust on your bread for added crunch and flavor.
- Don’t Rush It – Take your time with each step, especially when smoking and assembling, to achieve the best results.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts
Complement your BBQ Brisket Melts with sides that enhance their savory goodness. Here are some great options:
- Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky baked beans provide a hearty complement to brisket.
- Cornbread – This slightly sweet bread pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of BBQ.
- Macaroni Salad – A creamy macaroni salad offers coolness that balances out the warm sandwich.
- Grilled Veggies – Seasonal grilled vegetables add freshness and color to your meal.
- French Fries – Crispy fries are always a fan favorite; consider sweet potato fries for something different.
- Potato Salad – A classic potato salad can be made with mustard or mayo for additional flavor options.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making BBQ Brisket Melts, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to apply a generous amount of brisket rub can lead to bland flavors. Always season your brisket thoroughly for the best taste.
- Not resting the meat: Cutting into the brisket too soon can result in a dry texture. Let it rest for 2-3 hours in a cooler to retain moisture.
- Overcooking or undercooking: Keeping an eye on the temperature is crucial. Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 204-206 degrees for perfect tenderness.
- Using low-quality bread: Choosing subpar bread can ruin your melt. Opt for fresh, hearty sourdough that can hold up against juicy brisket and gooey cheese.
- Neglecting caramelization: Skipping the sautéing of onions can miss out on rich flavors. Take time to caramelize them; it adds depth to your BBQ Brisket Melts.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts
- Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about BBQ Brisket Melts, here are some common questions answered.
What makes BBQ Brisket Melts so special?
BBQ Brisket Melts combine tender smoked brisket with melted cheese and crunchy fried onions, creating an irresistible sandwich experience.
Can I customize my BBQ Brisket Melts?
Absolutely! You can add different cheeses, sauces, or even pickles for extra flavor. The versatility allows you to make it your own!
How do I ensure my brisket is tender?
The key is low and slow cooking. Smoke at proper temperatures and allow sufficient resting time after cooking for the best results.
Can I use leftover brisket for these melts?
Yes! Leftover brisket is perfect for making delicious melts. Just slice thinly and follow the assembly instructions.
What side dishes pair well with BBQ Brisket Melts?
Consider serving coleslaw, potato chips, or baked beans as tasty sides that complement the rich flavors of the melts.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Brisket Melts are not just a meal; they embody comfort food at its finest. With their smoky flavor and melty goodness, they offer endless customization options. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your taste buds will thank you!
BBQ Brisket Melts
- Total Time: 12 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
BBQ Brisket Melts are an irresistible comfort food that combines tender, smoked brisket with gooey cheese, all nestled between crispy sourdough bread. This delectable sandwich is perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy family dinners. Each bite bursts with rich flavors from the smoky brisket and tangy BBQ sauce, making it a standout dish that will leave everyone craving more. Plus, with easy customization options and the opportunity to use leftover brisket, this recipe is not only delicious but also practical.
Ingredients
- Brisket
- Sourdough bread
- Colby jack cheese
- Provolone cheese
- BBQ sauce
- Fried crispy onions
- Onion
- Avocado oil
- Butter
Instructions
- Prepare the brisket by trimming excess fat and applying mustard as a binder. Season generously with your favorite brisket rub and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
- Smoke the brisket in a pellet smoker at 210°F using hickory pellets for 9-10 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165-170°F. Wrap in butcher's paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow, then increase the temperature to 250°F until it reaches 204-206°F.
- Allow the brisket to rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours.
- Sauté diced onions with avocado oil, salt, and butter until caramelized.
- Assemble melts by layering fried onions, sliced brisket, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, and cheeses between slices of sourdough bread.
- Toast in a cast iron skillet over medium heat with butter until golden brown on both sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Smoking, Sautéing, Toasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 melt (200g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
