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+ servings

Caramelized Pulled Beef Brisket

A savory and sweet dish featuring tender, pulled beef brisket caramelized to perfection, perfect for barbecues or family dinners.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 9 hours
Serving Size 8 servings

Ingredients

For Marinating and Searing

  • 3-4 lbs beef brisket Select well-marbled for best flavor.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp chili powder Optional for heat.

For Cooking and Glaze

  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp beef drippings From slow cooker or roasting pan.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce For caramelizing step.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Trim excess fat from the brisket and season generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Marinate for at least an hour.

Searing

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the brisket and sear on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Slow Cooking

  • Slow Cooker Method: Place the seared brisket in a slow cooker. Mix beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar in a bowl. Pour over brisket, add onion and garlic, and cook on low for 8 hours.
  • Oven Method: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the brisket in a roasting pan, pour sauce mixture over it, cover, and roast for 4-5 hours.

Shredding

  • Once cooked, remove brisket and let it rest for 15 minutes. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any tough bits.

Caramelizing

  • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shredded brisket, reserved beef drippings, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until caramelized.

Notes

Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or barbecue sauce.