BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any gathering or casual weeknight dinner. This delicious sandwich features tender, smoked brisket paired with gooey cheese and crispy toppings, all nestled between perfectly toasted sourdough bread. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a standout choice for barbecues, game days, or just a cozy night in.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Brisket
• For the Onions and Bread
• For Assembly
• How to Make BBQ Brisket Melts
• Step 1: Prepare the Brisket
• Step 2: Smoke the Brisket
• Step 3: Rest the Brisket
• Step 4: Caramelize the Onions
• Step 5: Assemble the Melt
• Step 6: Toast the Sandwiches
• How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts
• Pair with Classic Sides
• Add a Flavorful Dip
• Serve with a Refreshing Drink
• How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts
• Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts
• Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is a BBQ Brisket Melt?
• How do I make my BBQ Brisket Melts even tastier?
• Can I use leftover brisket for this recipe?
• What sides pair well with BBQ Brisket Melts?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoked brisket, melted cheese, and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can master this recipe without fuss.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard party, BBQ Brisket Melts are always a hit.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Great Leftovers: These melts taste even better the next day, making them a fantastic meal prep option.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare BBQ Brisket Melts effectively, having the right tools will streamline the cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet smoker: Provides the perfect low-and-slow cooking environment for tender brisket with rich smoky flavor.
• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for toasting sandwiches evenly while achieving that golden crust.

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 Bread

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

For Assembly

• 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 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 and a water pan underneath for 9-10 hours until it reaches 165-170 degrees.
2. Wrap in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow.
3. Continue smoking at 250 degrees until it reaches 204-206 degrees.

Step 3: Rest the Brisket

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

Step 4: Caramelize the Onions

1. Sauté diced onions with avocado oil, kosher salt, and butter until caramelized.

Step 5: Assemble the Melt

1. On one slice of sourdough bread, layer fried onions, Colby jack cheese, thinly sliced brisket, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, provolone cheese, and top with another slice of bread.

Step 6: Toast the Sandwiches

1. Heat cast iron skillet over medium heat and add butter.
2. Toast each sandwich for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cheese is melted.

Enjoy your homemade BBQ Brisket Melts!

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are delicious and versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, serving these melts can elevate the meal experience.

Pair with Classic Sides

• Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the brisket.
• Potato Chips – Serve with crispy potato chips for a satisfying crunch that complements the melt.
• Pickles – Pickles provide a zesty contrast, cutting through the flavors of the cheese and meat.

Add a Flavorful Dip

• BBQ Sauce – Offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing the smoky flavor of the brisket.
• Ranch Dressing – A creamy ranch dressing pairs well with the savory elements of the melt.

Serve with a Refreshing Drink

• Iced Tea – Sweetened iced tea is a classic choice that refreshes and complements BBQ flavors.
• Craft Beer – A light craft beer can enhance the meal experience while adding another layer of flavor.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

To master BBQ Brisket Melts, focus on quality ingredients and cooking techniques. These tips will help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Choose Quality Brisket – Opt for well-marbled brisket; it enhances flavor and tenderness during smoking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh onions, cheeses, and herbs elevate your melt’s flavor significantly.
• Allow Proper Resting Time – Letting the brisket rest after smoking ensures maximum juiciness when slicing.
• Toast Bread Properly – Use enough butter when toasting sourdough for a crispy, golden crust that holds up against fillings.
• Experiment with Cheeses – Mixing different cheeses can create unique flavors; try adding sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a kick.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

Serving side dishes alongside your BBQ Brisket Melts can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Baked Beans – Sweet and hearty baked beans complement the smoky flavors beautifully.
2. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese provides comfort and pairs well with rich meats.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to savory brisket melts.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer sweetness that balances out the savory brisket.
6. Caesar Salad – A Caesar salad adds crispness and freshness, making it an excellent palate cleanser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Brisket Melts, some common pitfalls can affect your final dish. Here are key mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using Low-Quality Meat: Choosing a low-quality brisket can lead to tough and flavorless melts. Always opt for a well-marbled cut to ensure tenderness.
• Skipping the Rub: Not seasoning your brisket properly can result in bland flavors. Use a generous amount of your favorite brisket rub for maximum taste.
• Not Allowing for Resting Time: Cutting into the brisket too soon can cause all the juices to run out. Make sure to let it rest wrapped in a cooler for 2-3 hours before slicing.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: It’s crucial to monitor the internal temperature of the brisket. Cooking it too long will dry it out, while undercooking can leave it chewy. Aim for 204-206 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Ignoring Cheese Choices: Not using the right type of cheese can impact flavor and meltiness. A combination of Colby jack and provolone creates a perfect cheesy texture.
• Neglecting Toasting: Failing to toast your bread adequately can result in a soggy sandwich. Use butter and a hot skillet for that crispy finish.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap the sandwich in foil and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a BBQ Brisket Melt?

BBQ Brisket Melts are delicious sandwiches made with smoked brisket, melted cheese, and flavorful toppings on toasted bread.

How do I make my BBQ Brisket Melts even tastier?

You can customize your BBQ Brisket Melts by adding different sauces, toppings like jalapeños or pickles, or trying various types of cheese.

Can I use leftover brisket for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover brisket works perfectly for making BBQ Brisket Melts. Just reheat it before assembling your sandwich.

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 are an incredible comfort food that brings together smoky flavors and gooey cheese between crispy bread. This recipe is versatile—you can customize it with your favorite sauces or toppings. Try making these melts today; you won’t be disappointed!