BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are a deliciously smoky and cheesy delight that will elevate any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or just craving something hearty, this recipe is perfect for you. The combination of tender smoked brisket, melty cheese, and crispy onions creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll impress your friends and family with these incredible BBQ Brisket Melts.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The rich taste of smoked brisket paired with gooey cheese makes every bite unforgettable.
• Easy to Make: With step-by-step instructions, even novice cooks can create this masterpiece.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These melts are ideal for parties, game days, or casual dinners with friends.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sauces to make it uniquely yours.
• Comfort Food at its Best: Warm, cheesy sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food that everyone loves.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pellet smoker
• Cast iron skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet smoker: Provides consistent heat and infuses the brisket with wonderful smoky flavor.
• Cast iron skillet: Excellent for toasting the melts evenly while achieving a crispy exterior.

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 and Assembly

• 2 whole onions
• Avocado oil (2 tablespoons)
• Kosher salt (1 tablespoon)
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons plus more for toasting)
• Sourdough bread
• Fried crispy onions

For the Cheese

• Colby jack cheese (2 slices)
• Provolone cheese (2 slices)

For the Sauce

• 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 moisture.
2. Cook for 9-10 hours until internal temperature reaches 165-170 degrees.
3. Wrap in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow.
4. Increase temperature to 250 degrees and continue smoking until it reaches 204-206 degrees.

Step 3: Resting Time

1. Once done, rest wrapped brisket in a cooler for 2-3 hours to retain its juices.

Step 4: Caramelize Onions

1. Sauté diced onions in avocado oil with kosher salt and unsalted butter until they are golden brown and caramelized.

Step 5: Assemble the Melts

1. Take slices of sourdough bread and layer with fried onions, Colby jack cheese, brisket slices, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, provolone cheese, and top bun.

Step 6: Toast the Sandwiches

1. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Add butter to the skillet before placing the sandwich inside.
3. Toast for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious BBQ Brisket Melts! Serve them hot and watch everyone come back for seconds!

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

Serving BBQ Brisket Melts is a delightful experience that combines rich flavors and textures. These melts can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for gatherings or casual meals.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the brisket melts hot off the skillet with a side of extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
• Pair with pickles to cut through the richness and add a crunchy texture.

For Game Day

• Arrange on a large platter for easy sharing during game day.
• Include toothpicks for effortless snacking while cheering on your favorite team.

On a Bun

• Use soft brioche buns instead of sourdough for a sweeter flavor profile.
• Add jalapeños to spice things up if desired.

With Fresh Salads

• Serve alongside a refreshing coleslaw for added crunch and tang.
• A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the heaviness of the melts.

As Part of a BBQ Feast

• Include other smoked meats and sides like baked beans and cornbread for a full BBQ spread.
• Offer various sauces on the side to cater to different tastes.

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How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

Perfecting your BBQ Brisket Melts takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your sandwich-making skills.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality brisket and fresh cheeses makes a notable difference in flavor.
• Control Temperature: Maintain consistent smoking temperatures for even cooking and optimal tenderness.
• Rest Your Meat: Allowing the brisket to rest ensures it retains its juices when sliced.
• Layer Wisely: Build your melt thoughtfully, ensuring even distribution of ingredients for balanced bites.
• Toast the Bread: Toasting enhances the bread’s flavor and provides a satisfying crunch.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavor combinations.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

Pairing your BBQ Brisket Melts with complementary sides enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some fantastic side dish ideas:

1. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the brisket melt.
2. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide a hearty contrast that complements smoked meats well.
3. Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors, making it an excellent choice.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is comforting and works great alongside smoky dishes.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: This classic comfort food adds creaminess that perfectly matches with brisket melts.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies offer freshness and color, enhancing your plate’s visual appeal.
7. Chips or Fries: Crispy chips or fries provide an enjoyable crunch that contrasts with the softness of the melt.
8. Pickle Platter: A selection of pickles adds acidity, which helps cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing BBQ Brisket Melts that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Resting Period: Not letting your brisket rest can lead to dry meat. After smoking, wrap the brisket and let it rest for 2-3 hours in a cooler.
• Underestimating the Rub: Using too little rub can result in bland flavors. Be generous with your pepper-forward brisket rub for the best taste.
• Incorrect Smoking Temperature: Smoking at inconsistent temperatures can ruin your brisket. Ensure you maintain a steady temperature of 210 degrees initially and 250 degrees while wrapping.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: Cooking time is crucial. Use a meat thermometer to check when the internal temperature reaches 204-206 degrees for perfect tenderness.
• Neglecting Toasting: Not toasting the bread can make your sandwich soggy. Always toast your sourdough in butter on a skillet for a crispy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store BBQ Brisket Melts in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts

• Wrap each melt tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking periodically to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes BBQ Brisket Melts so special?

BBQ Brisket Melts combine tender smoked brisket with gooey cheese and crunchy fried onions, creating a delicious flavor experience that’s hard to beat.

Can I customize my BBQ Brisket Melts?

Absolutely! You can add different cheeses, switch up the bread, or use various sauces based on your preference.

How do I ensure my brisket is tender?

To achieve tenderness, smoke it low and slow, and ensure you monitor the internal temperature closely.

What sides pair well with BBQ Brisket Melts?

Delicious sides include coleslaw, potato salad, or even baked beans that complement the rich flavors of the melts.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Brisket Melts are not only mouthwatering but also versatile enough for any occasion—from casual family dinners to game day gatherings. Feel free to customize these melts with your favorite ingredients or sides. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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BBQ Brisket Melts

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 10 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

BBQ Brisket Melts are a mouthwatering fusion of smoky, tender brisket and gooey cheese, topped with crispy onions for a delightful crunch. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or cozy dinners at home, this sandwich elevates classic comfort food to new heights. With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, even novice cooks can whip up these hearty melts that will impress friends and family alike. Serve them hot off the skillet with your favorite BBQ sauce for dipping, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds!

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Ingredients

• Smoked brisket
• Sourdough bread
• Colby jack cheese
• Provolone cheese
• Fried crispy onions
• BBQ sauce
• Onions

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Instructions

1. Prepare the brisket by trimming excess fat, applying mustard as a binder, and seasoning generously with rub. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
2. Smoke the brisket at 210°F using hickory pellets for 9-10 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165-170°F. Wrap in butcher paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow, then increase temperature to 250°F until it reaches 204-206°F.
3. Rest the brisket in a cooler for 2-3 hours before slicing.
4. Caramelize diced onions in avocado oil and butter until golden brown.
5. Assemble sandwiches with sourdough, fried onions, sliced brisket, caramelized onions, cheeses, and BBQ sauce.
6. Toast in a cast iron skillet over medium heat with butter until golden brown on both sides.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Smoked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 melt (250g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 930mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 90mg