There’s something truly magical about the aroma of smoked brisket wafting through the kitchen, a fragrant promise of rich flavors and comfort. When the craving strikes for something hearty yet rewarding, these BBQ Brisket Melts become my go-to dish. With tender, succulent brisket tucked between crispy fried onions and gooey cheese, all encased in perfectly toasted sourdough, these sandwiches are not just meals; they’re an experience designed to impress.
Picture this: your friends gather around, laughter echoing, as you serve up these mouthwatering delights. Each bite is a wave of smoky goodness, complemented by a hint of tangy BBQ sauce, and the crunch from the fried onions adds an unexpected twist. They’re versatile too—feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses or a spicy kick from jalapeños. Easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor, BBQ Brisket Melts encapsulate the essence of American cuisine. Get ready to elevate your next gathering or weeknight dinner with these irresistible sandwiches!
Why Are BBQ Brisket Melts So Special?
Unforgettable Flavor: The harmonious blend of smoky brisket, gooey cheese, and crispy fried onions creates a symphony of flavors that delights the palate.
Easy to Customization: With options to add spicy jalapeños or swap in your favorite cheeses, these melts cater to every taste preference.
Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for hosting, these sandwiches are a surefire crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone satisfied.
Quick Prep Time: Despite their gourmet taste, BBQ Brisket Melts are simple to make, allowing you to enjoy delicious food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Hearty Comfort: They offer a filling meal that embodies the warmth and satisfaction of classic American comfort food.
BBQ Brisket Melts Ingredients
For the Brisket
- Brisket – A well-marbled cut ensures tenderness and flavor for your BBQ Brisket Melts.
- Mustard – Acts as a binder to help the seasoning stick; classic yellow or dijon complement the brisket beautifully.
- Pepper-forward brisket rub – A bold mix enhances flavor; try a paprika-based rub for a smokier alternative.
- Hickory pellets – Essential for smoking, these impart a rich flavor; apple or cherry pellets can offer a fruity twist.
- Apple cider vinegar – Keeps the brisket moist; no substitutes are necessary to achieve the best results.
- Beef tallow – Adds juiciness; if unavailable, unsalted butter serves as a great replacement.
For the Sandwich
- Sourdough bread – The ideal vessel for these sandwiches; gluten-free options can be easily substituted.
- Colby Jack cheese – Delivers creamy velvetiness; cheddar or mozzarella work well if you prefer something different.
- Provolone cheese – Provides a mild flavor that complements the brisket; consider gouda or Monterey jack as alternatives.
- Fried onions – Add satisfying crunch; opt for store-bought or make your own for added freshness.
For the Sauce
- BBQ sauce – This delicious addition ties everything together; choose your favorite brand or make a homemade version for an extra touch.
How to Make BBQ Brisket Melts
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Prepare the Brisket: Start by trimming excess fat from the brisket. Apply mustard as a binder, then season generously with your chosen brisket rub. Place it in the fridge for 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld.
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Smoke the Brisket: Set your pellet smoker to 210°F and add hickory pellets, using a water pan for moisture. Smoke the brisket for 9-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165-170°F; it should appear dark and flavorful.
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Wrap and Continue Smoking: Carefully wrap your smoked brisket in butcher paper with a splash of apple cider vinegar and a smear of beef tallow. Increase the smoker temperature to 250°F and continue smoking until it reaches an internal temperature of 204-206°F.
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Rest the Brisket: Once done, let the wrapped brisket rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours. This crucial step keeps it juicy and flavorful.
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Assemble the Sandwich: On a clean surface, layer one slice of sourdough bread with fried onions, sliced brisket, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, and both cheeses. Top with another slice of bread.
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Toast the Sandwich: In a cast-iron skillet over medium heat, add butter. Toast the assembled sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and the cheese has melted to ooey-gooey perfection.
Optional: Serve with a side of tangy coleslaw for an extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
BBQ Brisket Melts Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these BBQ Brisket Melts your own with these delicious twists!
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or pickled jalapeños for an exciting burst of heat that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
- Cheese Lovers: Swap in pepper jack cheese for a spicy creaminess or cream cheese for an ultra-smooth texture. Both make delightful additions!
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for an earthy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoky brisket.
- BBQ Sauce Swap: Experiment with different BBQ sauces; a sweet and tangy sauce can enhance the flavor profile. Try a mustard-based sauce, too!
- Healthy Twist: Use whole-grain or gluten-free bread instead of sourdough for a heartier, wholesome option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Onion Variation: Try using crispy bacon or caramelized shallots in place of fried onions for added depth and richness.
- Fruit Infusion: Top with thinly sliced apples or pears for a sweet and crunchy contrast that balances the savoriness of the brisket.
- Herb Touch: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley before serving for an aromatic finish that elevates each bite.
Each of these variations adds its own personality to your BBQ Brisket Melts, creating a delightful experience catered just for you!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Brisket Melts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can smoke the brisket up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld. Once cooled, wrap the brisket tightly in butcher paper and refrigerate; this maintains its juiciness. You can also pre-slice the brisket and prepare your toppings (fried onions, sauces) 3 days ahead for maximum convenience. When ready to serve, simply assemble the sandwiches and toast them in a skillet for just a few minutes until golden and melty. This way, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness of BBQ Brisket Melts without the last-minute stress!
What to Serve with BBQ Brisket Melts?
When you’re ready to enjoy these indulgent sandwiches, consider adding delightful sides that elevate your meal experience.
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Tangy Coleslaw: This crunchy, creamy side adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky flavors, enhancing each bite of your brisket melts.
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Classic Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad, seasoned with mustard and herbs, complements the hearty brisket, balancing the meal with its cool, savory taste.
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Baked Beans: The sweet and smoky profile of baked beans pairs beautifully with the BBQ elements, creating a comforting, homey vibe for your gathering.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred sweetness from grilled corn elevates your plate, offering a deliciously light and crunchy side that sings of summer barbecues.
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Pickle Slices: Tangy pickles add a zingy crunch, cutting through the richness of the melts while providing a delightful textural contrast.
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Craft Beer: A cold, crisp craft beer presents a refreshing counterpart to the robust flavors of BBQ Brisket Melts, enhancing the overall culinary delight.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies, offering a nostalgic dessert that pairs perfectly after savory bites.
Tips for the Best BBQ Brisket Melts
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Choose Quality Brisket: Selecting a well-marbled cut is vital; it ensures tenderness and depth of flavor in your BBQ Brisket Melts.
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Proper Smoking Temperature: Maintaining a stable temperature in your smoker is crucial for effective cooking and perfect smokiness; use a thermometer to avoid fluctuations.
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Don’t Rush the Resting Time: Allowing the brisket to rest for 2-3 hours is essential; this helps retain moisture, preventing dry meat in your sandwiches.
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Season Generously: Avoid the common mistake of under-seasoning; a generous application of your brisket rub enhances the overall flavor of your BBQ Brisket Melts.
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Experiment with Cheese: Don’t hesitate to mix and match your cheese selections; combining different types can enhance creaminess and introduce delightful flavor layers in each bite.
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Serving Temperature Matters: Serve your melts warm for the best experience; the gooey cheese and tender brisket shine brightest when enjoyed fresh from the skillet.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Brisket Melts
Fridge: Keep assembled BBQ Brisket Melts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unassembled sandwiches in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Leftover Brisket: Store leftover smoked brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, perfect for future BBQ Brisket Melts.
Reheating: To reheat, warm brisket slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of BBQ sauce for moisture and flavor.
BBQ Brisket Melts Recipe FAQs
What kind of brisket should I use for BBQ Brisket Melts?
Absolutely! You want a well-marbled brisket for maximum tenderness and flavor. Look for cuts with even fat distribution, as this will render down during cooking, adding juiciness to your sandwiches.
How can I store leftover BBQ Brisket Melts?
Very! Store the assembled BBQ Brisket Melts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring the bread gets crispy again.
Can I freeze the brisket for later use?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor and texture, wrap unassembled sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To use, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat.
What should I do if my brisket turn out dry?
The more the merrier—moist brisket is key! If you find your brisket is dry, make sure to keep it well-wrapped during resting to retain juices. If it has already dried out, slicing it thin and serving with additional BBQ sauce can help bring moisture back.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you have dietary concerns, consider using gluten-free sourdough bread as a substitute. Additionally, check the ingredients of your BBQ sauce to avoid any allergens, and feel free to customize the cheeses according to your dietary preferences.
How can I make BBQ Brisket Melts more spicy?
Absolutely! To add a kick, incorporate sliced jalapeños into the sandwich before toasting, or try a pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist. You might even sprinkle some cayenne pepper into your brisket rub for that extra heat!
BBQ Brisket Melts: Irresistible Flavor in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Brisket: Trim excess fat from the brisket, apply mustard as a binder, then season with brisket rub. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
- Smoke the Brisket: Set smoker to 210°F with hickory pellets and a water pan. Smoke for 9-10 hours until internal temperature reaches 165-170°F.
- Wrap and Continue Smoking: Wrap brisket in butcher paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow. Increase temperature to 250°F and smoke until it reaches 204-206°F.
- Rest the Brisket: Let the brisket rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Layer one slice of sourdough with fried onions, sliced brisket, BBQ sauce, and both cheeses. Top with another slice of bread.
- Toast the Sandwich: In a skillet with butter over medium heat, toast sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese has melted.