BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are the perfect blend of smoky, tender meat and cheesy goodness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying game day, or simply craving a hearty meal, these melts deliver on flavor and satisfaction. With a combination of perfectly smoked brisket, savory cheeses, and crispy onions, this recipe will quickly become a favorite to share with family and friends.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of smoked brisket and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll be able to create this masterpiece without stress.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for casual gatherings or formal dinners, these BBQ Brisket Melts fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good sandwich, and this one is guaranteed to impress your guests.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich flavors and hearty ingredients make this melt a comforting choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make BBQ Brisket Melts successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and helps achieve better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pellet smoker
• Cast iron skillet
• Butcher’s paper
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet smoker: This allows for even smoking at controlled temperatures, ensuring your brisket comes out perfectly tender.
• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for achieving that golden-brown crust on your melts while keeping everything warm inside.

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

• 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

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 9-10 hours until it reaches 165-170 degrees.
2. Once smoked, wrap in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow.
3. Increase smoker temperature to 250 degrees and continue smoking until it reaches 204-206 degrees.

Step 3: Let It Rest

1. After smoking, rest the wrapped brisket in a cooler for 2-3 hours.

Step 4: Prepare Caramelized Onions

1. Sauté diced onions in avocado oil over medium heat.
2. Add kosher salt and unsalted butter while cooking until caramelized.

Step 5: Assemble Your Melts

1. Start with slices of sourdough bread as the base.
2. Layer with fried crispy onions, Colby jack cheese, brisket slices, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, provolone cheese, then add the top bun.

Step 6: Toast the Sandwiches

1. In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, toast each sandwich with butter for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Enjoy your BBQ Brisket Melts hot off the skillet! They’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

Serving BBQ Brisket Melts can elevate any casual gathering or family dinner. These delicious sandwiches are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and drinks to enhance their rich flavors.

Classic Pairings

• Pickles – The tanginess of pickles cuts through the richness of the brisket, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a cool element that complements the smoky meat.
• Potato Chips – Crispy potato chips make for an easy snack, adding crunch to your meal.

Creative Additions

• Jalapeños – For a spicy kick, consider adding pickled or fresh jalapeños to your melt.
• BBQ Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky beans enhance the overall BBQ experience, making it hearty and satisfying.
• Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter brings a sweet flavor that pairs well with the savory brisket melts.

Beverage Suggestions

• Iced Tea – A classic beverage choice that balances the flavors perfectly.
• Craft Beer – A hoppy IPA or a rich stout can complement the smoky notes of the brisket.

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How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

To achieve mouthwatering BBQ Brisket Melts, follow these essential tips. They will ensure your sandwiches are packed with flavor and have the perfect texture.

• Use Quality Brisket – Start with a well-marbled brisket for tenderness and juiciness in every bite.
• Don’t Rush Smoking – Allow ample time for smoking. The longer cook time helps develop deep flavors in the meat.
• Resting is Key – Let your brisket rest after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
• Choose Fresh Bread – Opt for freshly baked sourdough for its crusty exterior and chewy interior that holds up well against fillings.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

Adding side dishes can turn your BBQ Brisket Melts into a complete meal. Here are some great options that pair wonderfully with these tasty sandwiches.

1. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy and cheesy macaroni is always a crowd-pleaser; bake it for a crispy top layer.
2. Sweet Potato Fries – These add a hint of sweetness and crunch, which contrasts beautifully with savory brisket melts.
3. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and health benefits; toss them in olive oil before grilling.
4. Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette provides freshness alongside heavier dishes.
5. Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans bring sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Moist cornbread muffins offer a sweet touch that pairs nicely with smoky flavors.
7. Onion Rings – Crunchy onion rings add an extra layer of texture; serve them as a fun finger food option.
8. Chili – A bowl of chili can add warmth, spice, and comfort to your meal, creating a cozy dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing BBQ Brisket Melts, it’s easy to make some common missteps. Here are several mistakes to watch out for.

• Not seasoning enough: If you skip the seasoning step or don’t use enough rub, your brisket may lack flavor. Be generous with your favorite pepper-forward brisket rub for the best taste.
• Skipping the resting phase: Failing to rest your brisket can lead to dry meat. Always wrap and let it rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours to keep it juicy.
• Using low-quality bread: A flimsy bread won’t hold up well against all the delicious fillings. Choose sturdy sourdough for a perfect BBQ Brisket Melt.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Not monitoring the internal temperature can ruin your brisket. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 204-206 degrees during cooking.
• Neglecting the caramelization of onions: Skipping this step means missing out on a key flavor component. Take time to sauté your onions until they are perfectly caramelized for added sweetness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store BBQ Brisket Melts in an airtight container.
• They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts

• Wrap each melt tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze them for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place melts directly on a baking sheet, covering with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 1 minute. Check and heat in additional 30-second increments if needed.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making BBQ Brisket Melts.

What is the best type of brisket for BBQ Brisket Melts?

The best type of brisket is one that has good marbling, such as a point cut. It provides flavor and tenderness after smoking.

Can I use leftover brisket for BBQ Brisket Melts?

Absolutely! Leftover smoked brisket works perfectly in this recipe, making it an easy and delicious way to enjoy leftovers.

How do I customize my BBQ Brisket Melt?

You can customize your melt by adding extra toppings like jalapeños, pickles, or different cheeses based on your preference!

What can I serve with BBQ Brisket Melts?

These melts pair wonderfully with coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Brisket Melts are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and sides based on personal tastes. Try this recipe at home and enjoy the comforting flavors that will satisfy any craving!

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BBQ Brisket Melts

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• Author: Dina
• Total Time: 10 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

BBQ Brisket Melts are the ultimate comfort food, combining smoky, tender brisket with gooey cheese and crispy onions for an unforgettable sandwich experience. Perfect for backyard barbecues or cozy dinners, these melts are not just a meal; they’re a delicious celebration of flavors that everyone will love. With just the right balance of savory and cheesy goodness, you can customize them to suit your taste by adding toppings like jalapeños or pickles. Whether you’re preparing for a game day feast or simply indulging in a hearty lunch, this recipe will quickly become a favorite among family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Brisket
• Sourdough bread
• Colby jack cheese
• Provolone cheese
• Fried crispy onions
• BBQ sauce
• Caramelized onions (2 whole onions)
• Mustard
• Brisket rub
• Hickory pellets
• Apple cider vinegar
• Beef tallow
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for toasting)

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Instructions

1. Trim the brisket and season it generously with mustard and your favorite brisket rub. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
2. Smoke the brisket at 210°F for 9-10 hours until it reaches 165-170°F, then wrap it in butcher paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow before increasing the temperature to 250°F until it reaches 204-206°F.
3. Let the brisket rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours.
4. Caramelize diced onions in avocado oil over medium heat with kosher salt and butter until golden brown.
5. Assemble the melts using sourdough bread, layers of fried crispy onions, brisket slices, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, and cheese slices.
6. Toast the assembled sandwiches in a cast iron skillet with butter until golden brown on both sides.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Smoking & Toasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 melt (250g)
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 1350mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 110mg