BBQ Brisket Melts

Indulge in the delectable flavors of BBQ Brisket Melts! This sandwich is perfect for gatherings, game day, or a simple family dinner. Featuring tender smoked brisket, melted cheese, and crispy fried onions on toasted sourdough bread, these melts will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts are not just another sandwich; they are an experience!

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoked brisket, cheese, and caramelized onions creates a symphony of flavors.
• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a barbecue party. These melts adapt to any occasion!
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe brings warmth and nostalgia, making it ideal for cozy nights in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a gooey melt! Serve these at your next gathering, and watch them disappear.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand for making BBQ Brisket Melts.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pellet smoker
• Cast iron skillet
• Butcher’s paper
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet smoker: Provides consistent temperature control for perfectly smoked brisket.
• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for toasting sandwiches evenly while giving them a crispy exterior.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for trimming brisket and slicing ingredients with precision.

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

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

For 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 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, using a water pan underneath, for 9-10 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165-170 degrees.
2. Wrap the brisket in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow.
3. Smoke again at 250 degrees until the internal temperature reaches 204-206 degrees.

Step 3: Rest the Brisket

Allow the wrapped brisket to rest in a cooler for about 2-3 hours. This step helps retain moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Caramelize Onions

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

Step 5: Assemble the Melts

Layer your sandwich by placing sourdough bread on a clean surface. Add fried onions, sliced brisket, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, Colby jack cheese, provolone cheese, and top it off with another slice of bread.

Step 6: Toast the Sandwiches

In a cast iron skillet heated over medium heat:
1. Add butter to coat the pan.
2. Place assembled sandwiches in the pan and toast for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade BBQ Brisket Melts!

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

Serving BBQ Brisket Melts can be a delightful experience, enhancing the flavors of this savory sandwich. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy your BBQ Brisket Melts.

For a Casual Meal

• Chips: Serve with crispy potato chips for a satisfying crunch.
• Pickles: Add dill pickles on the side for a tangy contrast.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw pairs perfectly with the richness of the melt.

Perfect for Parties

• Sliders: Cut the melts into smaller portions to create sliders for easy sharing.
• Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These spicy bites complement the smoky flavors of the brisket.
• Veggie Platter: Fresh veggies provide a light option that balances out the meal.

Gourmet Touch

• Truffle Fries: Elevate your serving with truffle oil drizzled fries for an upscale feel.
• Craft Beers: Pair with a selection of craft beers that enhance the flavors of barbecue.

How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

Perfecting your BBQ Brisket Melts requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Follow these tips for a stellar sandwich.

• Bold seasoning: Use a pepper-forward brisket rub to enhance flavor depth.
• Low and slow smoking: Smoking at low temperatures allows for tender, juicy brisket.
• Quality bread: Opt for fresh sourdough bread; it holds up well against moist fillings.
• Caramelization technique: Sauté onions until golden brown for sweet, rich flavor.
• Temperature control: Ensure your cast iron skillet is hot enough to achieve that perfect toast.
• Resting time: Allowing brisket to rest helps retain its juices and improves texture.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Brisket Melts can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Potato Salad: Creamy and flavorful, this classic dish complements the smokiness of the brisket.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread adds a comforting touch to your meal.
3. Baked Beans: Rich and hearty, these beans bring out the barbecue flavors in your sandwich.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Cheesy goodness is always a hit—perfect alongside any melt!
5. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled veggies add color and freshness to balance richness.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness contrasts nicely with savory brisket while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Brisket Melts, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Always season your brisket generously with a flavorful rub. A well-seasoned brisket enhances the overall taste of the melt.
• Not resting the brisket: After smoking, let the brisket rest in a cooler for 2-3 hours. This allows juices to redistribute, making it more tender and juicy.
• Overcooking the onions: When caramelizing onions, keep an eye on them. Overcooked onions can become burnt and bitter; aim for a golden brown color.
• Using low-quality bread: Choose good quality sourdough bread that can hold up to the filling. Stale or flimsy bread will not provide the right texture for a great melt.
• Neglecting to use enough cheese: Cheese is crucial in BBQ Brisket Melts. Ensure you use ample Colby jack and provolone for that gooey, melty goodness.
• Forgetting about temperature control: Maintain consistent smoking temperatures when cooking your brisket. Fluctuations can lead to uneven cooking and dryness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap each melt tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• BBQ Brisket Melts can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the melts in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the melt on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Toast each side for about 3-4 minutes until heated and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of meat is best for BBQ Brisket Melts?

The best meat is a well-marbled brisket. It provides flavor and tenderness necessary for delicious melts.

Can I make BBQ Brisket Melts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components like smoked brisket and caramelized onions ahead of time. Assemble and toast just before serving.

What are some good side dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts?

Consider pairing your melts with coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans for a complete meal experience.

How can I customize my BBQ Brisket Melts?

Feel free to add jalapeños for some heat, pickles for tanginess, or different types of cheese based on preference.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Brisket Melts are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with various toppings or sauces based on your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting twist on classic barbecue.