BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings and casual dinners. These delicious sandwiches bring together tender smoked brisket, gooey cheese, and savory toppings all nestled between crispy sourdough. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving something hearty, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends. The combination of flavors and textures makes these melts a standout choice for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor: The smoky brisket paired with rich cheeses creates a taste that lingers in your memory.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner, BBQ Brisket Melts fit right in.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sauces to make it your own!
• Great Leftovers: If you have any brisket left over, these melts reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
• Comforting and Satisfying: Each bite is packed with flavor and texture, making it a meal that truly satisfies.

Tools and Preparation

To create mouthwatering BBQ Brisket Melts, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process from smoking the brisket to grilling the sandwiches.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet smoker: Provides even heat and infuses the brisket with delicious smoky flavor.
• Cast iron skillet: Perfect for achieving a crispy crust on your melts while keeping the inside gooey.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for the brisket and easy assembly of sandwiches.

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 Toppings

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

For Assembling the Melt

• 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 brisket of excess fat.
2. Apply mustard all over as a binder.
3. Season generously with a pepper-forward brisket rub.
4. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Smoke the Brisket

1. Preheat your pellet smoker to 210 degrees using hickory pellets.
2. Place a water pan underneath the brisket.
3. Smoke for 9-10 hours until internal temperature reaches 165-170 degrees.

Step 3: Wrap and Continue Smoking

1. Wrap brisket in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow.
2. Increase smoker temperature to 250 degrees.
3. Smoke until internal temperature reaches 204-206 degrees.

Step 4: Rest the Brisket

1. Remove wrapped brisket from smoker.
2. Rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours.

Step 5: Caramelize the Onions

1. Dice onions and sauté them in avocado oil over medium heat.
2. Add kosher salt and unsalted butter; cook until caramelized.

Step 6: Assemble Your Melts

1. Take two slices of sourdough bread.
2. Layer on fried onions, Colby jack cheese, sliced brisket, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, provolone cheese, and top bun.

Step 7: Toast Your Sandwiches

1. Heat cast iron skillet over medium heat with butter.
2. Toast assembled melts for 3-4 minutes, flipping once until golden brown.

Enjoy your BBQ Brisket Melts fresh off the skillet!

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

Serving BBQ Brisket Melts is all about enhancing the rich flavors of the brisket and the gooey cheese. These melts can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.

Classic Pairings

• Pickles: A tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the melt.
• Potato Chips: The perfect salty snack to complement each bite.
• Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the flavors.

Saucy Options

• BBQ Sauce Dipping: Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for added flavor.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love a kick, drizzle some hot sauce over your melt.

Beverage Suggestions

• Craft Beer: A hoppy IPA or a smooth lager pairs well with the smoky flavors.
• Iced Tea: A refreshing non-alcoholic choice that cleanses the palate.

Fun Presentation Ideas

• Skewers: Cut melts into smaller pieces and serve on skewers for an easy-to-eat option at parties.
• Charcuterie Board: Include slices of BBQ brisket melts among cheeses and meats for a festive spread.

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How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

Creating the ideal BBQ Brisket Melt requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your melts are delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality brisket and fresh bread for the best flavor.
• Don’t Rush Smoking: Allow enough time for the brisket to reach its full flavor potential during smoking.
• Perfectly Toasted Bread: Use enough butter when toasting to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
• Layer Wisely: Stack your ingredients thoughtfully; alternate meat and cheese layers for even melting.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheese combinations to find your favorite melt profile.
• Rest Your Brisket: Letting it rest after cooking helps retain juices, leading to a juicier melt.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

Pairing sides with your BBQ Brisket Melts can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, it adds sweetness and texture alongside your melt.
2. Baked Beans: The smoky flavor complements the brisket beautifully while adding protein.
3. French Fries: Crisp fries provide a satisfying crunch; try sweet potato fries for a twist!
4. Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy goodness makes an indulgent side that pairs perfectly with rich melts.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil add color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Garden Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the melt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Brisket Melts, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping the binder: Using mustard as a binder is crucial for seasoning adherence. Don’t skip this step; it helps the rub stick better.
• Not resting the brisket: Failing to rest the brisket after cooking can lead to dry meat. Allow it to rest wrapped for 2-3 hours for juiciness.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking at incorrect temperatures may result in tough brisket. Follow the recommended smoking and wrapping temperatures closely.
• Ignoring cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can diminish flavor. Always opt for a good quality Colby jack and provolone for the best melt.
• Using stale bread: Old sourdough will not toast well and can ruin your BBQ Brisket Melts. Choose fresh bread for an ideal texture and taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing BBQ Brisket Melts

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes, wrapped in foil, to maintain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a little butter for crispiness, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about BBQ Brisket Melts that might help you.

How do I make my BBQ Brisket Melts extra cheesy?

To enhance cheesiness, add more slices of Colby jack and provolone. You could also mix in a bit of cream cheese for added creaminess.

Can I use leftovers from another recipe for brisket melts?

Absolutely! Leftover smoked brisket works perfectly. Just slice it thinly and follow the assembly instructions as usual.

What type of bread is best for BBQ Brisket Melts?

Sourdough is ideal because it holds up well during cooking and provides a nice crunch when toasted. However, you can also use ciabatta or baguette.

Are BBQ Brisket Melts suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These sandwiches hold up well when stored correctly, making them great candidates for meal prep throughout the week.

How can I customize my BBQ Brisket Melts?

You can customize these melts with different cheeses, add jalapeños for heat, or swap out the onions for other toppings like pickles or coleslaw.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Brisket Melts are not only satisfying but also versatile. You can adjust ingredients based on your preferences, ensuring that each melt is uniquely yours. Try making these delicious sandwiches at home; they’re perfect for any gathering or simply a cozy night in!

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BBQ Brisket Melts

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• Author: Tina
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

BBQ Brisket Melts are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. These mouthwatering sandwiches feature tender smoked brisket, gooey cheese, and savory toppings, all nestled between crispy sourdough.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 brisket
• Mustard (for binding)
• Favorite brisket rub
• Hickory pellets (for smoking)
• 2 whole onions
• Avocado oil
• Sourdough bread
• Colby jack cheese
• Provolone cheese
• Fried crispy onions
• BBQ sauce

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from the brisket and apply mustard as a binder.
2. Season with your favorite brisket rub and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
3. Preheat your pellet smoker to 210°F and smoke the brisket for about 9-10 hours.
4. Wrap the brisket in butcher paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow, increasing the temperature to 250°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 204-206°F.
5. Rest the wrapped brisket for 2-3 hours before slicing.
6. Sauté diced onions in avocado oil until caramelized.
7. Assemble the melts with sliced brisket, cheese, fried onions, and BBQ sauce between slices of sourdough bread.
8. Toast the assembled sandwiches in a cast iron skillet until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: Approximately 12 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Smoking and Toasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 melt (300g)
• Calories: 680
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 110mg