If you’re craving a beautifully succulent bite of brisket without all the fuss, this 3-ingredient version is here to save the day. Toss everything into the slow cooker, set the heat, and let time work its magic. A tantalizing aroma fills your kitchen as the hours pass, leaving you with a melt-in-your-mouth centerpiece perfect for cozy family dinners or any entertaining occasion.
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds beef brisket
- 1 envelope of onion soup mix
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
To begin, give your brisket a quick rinse and pat it dry with paper towels. The onion soup mix and barbecue sauce will do most of the heavy lifting for flavor, so there’s no need for extra steps or seasonings—unless you want to sprinkle on a little salt and pepper. Place the brisket into your slow cooker, making sure to tuck the thicker parts along the edges for even cooking.
Next, sprinkle the onion soup mix over the brisket, patting it down gently to form a light coating. Pour the barbecue sauce evenly over the top for a sweet and savory glaze. Cover and set your slow cooker to low; plan on about 8 hours of cook time—though you can speed things up on high in about 5–6 hours if needed. Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently; the slow, steady heat is what’s going to transform this brisket into fork-tender perfection.
Once it’s finished, transfer your brisket to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 10 minutes, which helps lock in all those flavorful juices. Slice against the grain and drizzle with any remaining sauce from the pot to serve a succulent main that shines on its own or alongside favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or fresh coleslaw.
This recipe is downright effortless, making it ideal for busy families or anyone craving a simple, hearty dish. Opt for leaner brisket if you’re keeping an eye on fat intake, or add a splash of beef broth if you prefer extra moisture. When you want to shake things up, try different seasonings—like taco seasoning for a Mexican twist or a teriyaki glaze for an Asian-inspired flair. However you customize it, you’ll end up with a fall-apart brisket that satisfies carnivores and comfort-food lovers alike.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.