BBQ Brisket Melts are a mouthwatering combination of tender smoked brisket and gooey cheese, all nestled between perfectly toasted sourdough bread. These melts are ideal for gatherings, game days, or a comforting weeknight dinner. With rich flavors and satisfying textures, they stand out as a delicious dish that will impress everyone at your table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of smoked brisket and melty cheese creates a taste experience that is truly remarkable.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy family meal, these melts fit right in.
Easy to Make: Follow the steps for a straightforward cooking process that yields impressive results.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or sauces to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparation easier and ensures your BBQ Brisket Melts turn out perfectly every time. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Pellet smoker
Cast iron skillet
Butcher’s paper
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Pellet smoker: Provides even heat and great smoke flavor for the brisket.
Cast iron skillet: Perfect for achieving a crispy exterior on your melts while keeping the inside gooey.

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 Toasting

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

Trim brisket of excess fat and apply mustard all over as a binder.
Season generously with a pepper-forward brisket rub and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Smoke the Brisket

Smoke on pellet smoker at 210 degrees with hickory pellets, water pan underneath, for 9-10 hours until it reaches 165-170 degrees.
Wrap in butcher’s paper with apple cider vinegar and beef tallow, then smoke at 250 degrees until it reaches 204-206 degrees.

Step 3: Rest the Brisket

Rest wrapped brisket in cooler for 2-3 hours.

Step 4: Sauté the Onions

Dice onions and sauté with avocado oil, kosher salt, and butter until caramelized.

Step 5: Assemble the Melts

Layer sourdough bread with fried onions, Colby jack cheese, sliced brisket, caramelized onions, BBQ sauce, provolone cheese, and top bun.

Step 6: Toast Your Sandwiches

Toast in cast iron skillet with butter for 3-4 minutes, flipping once until golden brown.

Now you have delicious BBQ Brisket Melts ready to enjoy! These sandwiches are sure to be a hit at any meal.

How to Serve BBQ Brisket Melts

Serving BBQ Brisket Melts can elevate any meal experience. These delicious sandwiches are perfect for various occasions, making them a crowd-pleaser.

For a Casual Get-Together

Serve with Pickles: Add dill pickles on the side for a tangy crunch that complements the rich flavors of the brisket.
Chips and Dip: Pair your melts with tortilla chips and a zesty salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.

As Part of a BBQ Feast

Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can balance the richness of the melts, providing a crunchy texture.
Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread alongside for a comforting and hearty addition.

For Game Day

Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are an excellent finger food option that pairs well with BBQ sauces.
Vegetable Platter: Include fresh veggies and ranch dip to offer a lighter contrast to the heavy melts.

With Drinks

Craft Beer: Choose an IPA or brown ale that complements the smoky flavors of the brisket.
Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened iced tea makes a refreshing beverage choice for any gathering.

How to Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

To ensure your BBQ Brisket Melts turn out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

Use Quality Meat: Select a well-marbled brisket for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Allow for Proper Resting: Letting your brisket rest after smoking helps retain moisture, resulting in juicier slices.
Experiment with Rubs: Try different rubs to find your favorite flavor profile; pepper-forward is recommended but adapt as you like.
Toast Your Bread Well: A good toast adds texture and prevents sogginess from the fillings.
Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Use generous portions of cheese to enhance creaminess and richness in each bite.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy your melts hot off the skillet to savor their best flavors.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Brisket Melts

BBQ Brisket Melts pair wonderfully with various sides that complement their robust flavors. Here are some great options.

Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans add sweetness and depth to your meal, perfect alongside brisket.
Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort and pairs well with the richness of brisket melts.
Fried Green Tomatoes: These crispy treats provide a tart contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness balances out savory flavors while adding a satisfying crunch.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn brings freshness and sweetness, making it an ideal summer side dish.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the heaviness of the melts.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelization of sprouts adds a nutty flavor that works well with smoked meats.
Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic picnic staple that pairs nicely with hearty sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your BBQ Brisket Melts turn out perfectly. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Not Trimming the Brisket Properly – Failing to trim excess fat can lead to a greasy melt. Always trim the brisket for a better flavor and texture.
Skipping the Rub – Neglecting to season with a good brisket rub means missing out on flavor. Generously apply your favorite pepper-forward rub before smoking.
Incorrect Smoking Temperature – Smoking at the wrong temperature can ruin your brisket. Maintain a steady 210 degrees for the best results.
Rushing the Resting Period – Cutting into the brisket too soon leads to dry meat. Let it rest wrapped in a cooler for 2-3 hours for maximum juiciness.
Overloading Your Melt – Using too many toppings can create a soggy sandwich. Balance the ingredients for a perfect melt without overwhelming flavors.

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 each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating BBQ Brisket Melts

Oven – Preheat to 350°F and reheat wrapped in foil for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of butter, and heat for about 5 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding BBQ Brisket Melts that you might find helpful!

Can I use different types of cheese for BBQ Brisket Melts?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different flavor profiles.

What’s the best way to smoke brisket for BBQ Brisket Melts?

Using hickory pellets is ideal, as they impart a rich flavor. Maintain consistent temperatures while smoking.

How do I keep my BBQ Brisket Melts from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, avoid excessive toppings and consider lightly toasting your bread before assembling.

Can I make BBQ Brisket Melts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components ahead and assemble just before grilling or serving. This makes meal prep easier!

Final Thoughts

BBQ Brisket Melts are not just delicious; they are versatile and customizable! Try different cheeses or sauces based on your preferences. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, these melts will surely delight everyone’s taste buds. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!

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BBQ Brisket Melts

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 10 hours 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

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Description

BBQ Brisket Melts are a flavor-packed delight that combines tender, smoky brisket with gooey cheese, all sandwiched between crispy, toasted sourdough bread. Perfect for game days or cozy family dinners, these melts are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavors and satisfying textures. With easy-to-follow steps and customizable ingredients, you can create a gourmet experience in the comfort of your own home. Serve them alongside pickles or coleslaw for the ultimate comfort food meal that everyone will love.

Instructions

Trim the brisket and coat it with mustard and seasoning rub; refrigerate.
Smoke the brisket using hickory pellets until it reaches 165°F, then wrap and continue smoking until 204°F.
Sauté diced onions in avocado oil and butter until caramelized.
Assemble the melts by layering sourdough with cheeses, brisket, onions, and BBQ sauce.
Toast in a cast iron skillet until golden brown on both sides.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 hours
Category: Main
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American