BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender smoked brisket with melted cheese and crispy onions, all nestled between slices of buttery sourdough bread. The rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a standout dish that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoked brisket, cheese, and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering taste sensation.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust the toppings or sauces to suit your taste and preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a backyard barbecue, these melts fit right in.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the brisket ahead of time for a quicker assembly when you’re ready to eat.
• Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve these melts at parties, and watch them disappear quickly!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Below are essential tools that will help you create delicious BBQ Brisket Melts.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pellet smoker
• Cast iron skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet smoker: This tool ensures even smoking and infuses the brisket with deep, rich flavors from the hickory pellets.
• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for achieving that perfect golden crust on your melts while keeping everything warm.
• Sharp knife: A must-have for slicing through the brisket effortlessly, allowing for beautiful presentation.

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 Assembling 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.
2. Apply mustard all over as a binder.
3. Season generously with your favorite pepper-forward brisket rub.
4. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Smoke the Brisket

1. Preheat your pellet smoker to 210 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place hickory pellets in the smoker and set up a water pan underneath.
3. Smoke brisket for 9-10 hours or until it reaches 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3: Wrap and Finish Smoking

1. Wrap the smoked brisket in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow.
2. Increase smoker temperature to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Smoke until it reaches an internal temperature of 204-206 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Resting Phase

1. Remove wrapped brisket from the smoker.
2. Let it rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours.

Step 5: Caramelize Onions

1. Dice onions into small pieces.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add avocado oil, kosher salt, and unsalted butter.
3. Sauté diced onions until they are caramelized.

Step 6: Assemble Your Melts

1. Take two slices of sourdough bread as your base.
2. Layer fried crispy onions, Colby jack cheese, sliced brisket, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, provolone cheese, and top bun.

Step 7: Toasting Time

1. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat with butter.
2. Place assembled melts in the skillet and toast for 3-4 minutes, flipping once until golden brown.

Enjoy your BBQ Brisket Melts with friends or family! They’re sure to impress everyone at your next gathering!

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are deliciously versatile and can be served in various ways to please your guests. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive gathering, these melts can be enjoyed with different accompaniments.

Classic Pairings

• Pickles: A crunchy, tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the brisket.
• Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based slaw adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.

Unique Twists

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the flavor and adds healthy fats.
• Spicy Jalapeños: For those who love heat, sliced jalapeños offer an exciting kick.

Dipping Options

• BBQ Sauce: Provide extra BBQ sauce for dipping; it complements the flavors beautifully.
• Ranch Dressing: A cool ranch dressing adds a creamy element that pairs well with smoky meats.

How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

To achieve the ultimate BBQ Brisket Melts, follow these tips for perfecting your dish.

• Choose Quality Brisket: Opt for well-marbled brisket for tenderness and flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the brisket to rest is crucial for juicy slices that won’t dry out.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cheeses and quality bread elevate the overall taste of your melts.
• Control Cooking Temperature: Maintain consistent temperatures when smoking and grilling for best results.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses like cheddar or gouda can enhance flavor profiles.
• Toast Bread Properly: Ensure the sourdough is golden brown and crispy for a satisfying crunch.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

Serving side dishes alongside your BBQ Brisket Melts can create a more complete meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Potato Salad: A classic side that’s creamy and comforting, perfect for balancing flavors.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, it adds sweetness that complements smoky meats wonderfully.
3. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory beans can be a hearty complement to brisket melts.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Rich and cheesy, this dish is always a favorite at gatherings.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies provide color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Chips & Salsa: A crunchy side that adds texture and a zesty kick to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Brisket Melts, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can ruin your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the binding step: Failing to use mustard as a binder can lead to uneven seasoning. Always apply mustard evenly on the brisket before adding your rub.

• Overcooking or undercooking the brisket: The cooking temperature is crucial. Make sure you monitor your smoker’s temperature and use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

• Not resting the brisket: Cutting into the brisket too soon can result in dry meat. Allow the brisket to rest wrapped in a cooler for at least 2-3 hours for optimal juiciness.

• Using low-quality bread: The bread choice greatly impacts texture and flavor. Opt for fresh sourdough that can hold up to the juicy fillings.

• Ignoring cheese variety: Using only one type of cheese can make your melts less flavorful. Combine different cheeses like Colby jack and provolone for a perfect melt.

• Forgetting about caramelization: Neglecting to properly caramelize the onions leaves out essential flavor. Take your time sautéing them until they are golden and sweet.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Brisket Melts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add butter and toast each side of the sandwich, about 3-4 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding BBQ Brisket Melts:

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

The best cut is usually the point cut because it has more fat, making it tender and flavorful after smoking.

Can I use leftovers for BBQ Brisket Melts?

Yes! Leftover smoked brisket is perfect for these melts, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors without starting from scratch.

How do I customize my BBQ Brisket Melt?

Feel free to add toppings such as jalapeños, pickles, or different types of cheese according to your taste preferences!

What sides pair well with BBQ Brisket Melts?

Consider serving them with coleslaw, potato chips, or baked beans for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Brisket Melts offer an incredible blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re grilling at home or planning a gathering, these melts are sure to impress!

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BBQ Brisket Melts

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• Author: Lia
• Total Time: 10 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

BBQ Brisket Melts are the epitome of comfort food, blending tender smoked brisket with melty cheese and crunchy crispy onions, all enveloped in buttery sourdough bread. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy nights in, this recipe delivers mouthwatering flavor and satisfying texture that everyone will love. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can whip up these indulgent melts that are sure to impress family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 brisket
• Mustard (for binder)
• Favorite brisket rub
• Hickory pellets (for smoking)
• 2 whole onions
• Avocado oil
• Sourdough bread
• Colby jack cheese
• Provolone cheese
• BBQ sauce

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from the brisket and coat it with mustard and your favorite rub. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
2. Preheat the pellet smoker to 210°F. Smoke the brisket for 9-10 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165-170°F.
3. Wrap the brisket in butcher's paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow, then increase the smoker temperature to 250°F and continue cooking until it reaches 204-206°F.
4. Let the brisket rest for 2-3 hours before slicing.
5. Caramelize diced onions in avocado oil over medium heat until golden brown.
6. Assemble the melts with sliced sourdough, brisket, cheeses, crispy onions, and BBQ sauce.
7. Toast on a cast iron skillet with butter until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Smoking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 melt (250g)
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 1100mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 85mg