BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are the ultimate comfort food that combines smoky, tender brisket with cheesy goodness. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a casual dinner, these melts are sure to impress. What sets them apart is the rich flavor from slow-smoked brisket paired with gooey cheese and crispy fried onions. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch and savory satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Smoky Flavor: The slow-smoking process infuses the brisket with deep, rich flavors that elevate this sandwich.
• Cheesy Goodness: With layers of melted Colby jack and provolone cheese, each bite is creamy and indulgent.
• Versatile Meal Option: Great for lunch, dinner, or even as a party dish, BBQ Brisket Melts fit any occasion.
• Easy to Make: While the smoking takes time, the assembly is quick and straightforward—perfect for busy days.
• Satisfying Texture: The combination of tender brisket, crispy onions, and toasted bread creates an irresistible texture contrast.

Tools and Preparation

To create these BBQ Brisket Melts successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and ensures you achieve delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pellet smoker
• Cast iron skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet smoker: This tool allows you to achieve that perfect smoky flavor while controlling heat easily.
• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for toasting the bread evenly and giving it a beautiful golden crust.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your brisket is cooked to perfection without guesswork.

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 Topping

• 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 excess fat from the brisket and apply mustard all over as a binder.
2. Generously season with your pepper-forward brisket rub.
3. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours to let flavors meld.

Step 2: Smoke the Brisket

1. Preheat your pellet smoker to 210 degrees using hickory pellets with a water pan underneath.
2. Place the brisket in the smoker and smoke for 9-10 hours until it reaches 165-170 degrees.
3. Wrap in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow once it hits temperature.
4. Increase smoker temperature to 250 degrees and continue smoking until it reaches 204-206 degrees.

Step 3: Resting

1. Remove wrapped brisket from the smoker.
2. Rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours to allow juices to redistribute.

Step 4: Caramelize Onions

1. Dice the two whole onions.
2. In a skillet, heat avocado oil, kosher salt, and unsalted butter over medium heat.
3. Sauté onions until caramelized—this should take about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble Your Melts

1. Start with a slice of sourdough bread on a cutting board.
2. Layer fried crispy onions on top, followed by sliced brisket.
3. Add caramelized onions and drizzle your favorite BBQ sauce over everything.
4. Place two slices of Colby jack cheese and two slices of provolone cheese on top before adding another slice of sourdough as the top bun.

Step 6: Toast Your BBQ Brisket Melts

1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add butter for toasting.
2. Once melted, place your assembled sandwiches in the skillet.
3. Toast each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping carefully once.

Enjoy your homemade BBQ Brisket Melts! These sandwiches are sure to be a hit at any meal!

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

Serving BBQ Brisket Melts is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Classic Pairing

• Pickles: Tangy pickles add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the melt.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a cool contrast and adds texture.

Flavorful Sides

• Potato Chips: Crispy chips complement the melt’s flavors and make for a satisfying snack.
• BBQ Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky beans pair perfectly with brisket, enhancing the BBQ experience.

Unique Twists

• Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac adds comfort and indulgence, making for a filling meal.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the melt.

Dipping Options

• Extra BBQ Sauce: Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side for extra flavor.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, hot sauce can spice things up wonderfully.

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How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

To ensure your BBQ Brisket Melts are truly exceptional, follow these expert tips.

• Use high-quality brisket: The better the meat, the more flavorful your melts will be.
• Let it rest: Allowing the brisket to rest before slicing helps retain moisture.
• Choose fresh bread: Opt for freshly baked sourdough for optimal texture and taste.
• Don’t skimp on cheese: Using generous amounts of both Colby jack and provolone enhances creaminess.
• Toast well: Ensure your sandwich is toasted until golden brown for added crunch.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding jalapeños or different sauces for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

Complement your BBQ Brisket Melts with delicious side dishes that enhance the overall meal. Here are some great options.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to savory brisket.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky grilled corn adds a summer vibe and pairs well with BBQ flavors.
3. Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad offers crisp greens that balance rich tastes nicely.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic side that’s always a hit at gatherings.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutrition and vibrant flavors to your plate.
6. Chili: A warm bowl of chili can serve as a hearty accompaniment, especially in colder months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Brisket Melts, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great.

• Skipping the rest period: Failing to rest the brisket after cooking can result in dry meat. Always let it rest wrapped for a few hours to retain moisture.
• Using low-quality brisket: Choosing subpar meat will affect flavor and texture. Opt for a well-marbled cut for the best results.
• Inconsistent seasoning: Not seasoning evenly can lead to uneven flavor. Be generous and thorough with your rub application.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking brisket past or below the right temperature affects tenderness. Aim for 204-206 degrees for perfect melt-in-your-mouth results.
• Not toasting the bread: Skipping the toast can result in a soggy sandwich. Toast your sourdough well for a crispy texture that holds up against juicy fillings.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Brisket Melts in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts

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

Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped sandwiches for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, flipping once until heated through, ensuring the bread crisps up nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about BBQ Brisket Melts.

What is a BBQ Brisket Melt?

A BBQ Brisket Melt combines tender smoked brisket with melty cheese and flavorful toppings, all sandwiched between toasted bread.

Can I customize my BBQ Brisket Melt?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, pickles, or even different types of cheese to suit your taste.

How do I choose the best brisket for melting?

Look for cuts with good marbling; these will provide the fat needed for flavor and tenderness in your melts.

What sauces pair best with BBQ Brisket Melts?

Your favorite BBQ sauce works wonders! Experiment with different styles like tangy or sweet options to find what you love most.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Brisket Melts are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them based on personal preferences or available ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe promises satisfaction that everyone will love!