
Tender Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket with Rich Gravy
Nutritional value per serving
Calories400kcal
Carbs10gram
Fat25gram
Protein30gram
Ingredients
- Beef brisket (preferably flat cut, well-trimmed)1.5 kg
- Salt (preferably kosher or sea salt)2 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)1 tsp
- Garlic powder1 tsp
- Onion powder1 tsp
- Olive oil or vegetable oil2 tbsp
- Yellow onion (large, sliced)1 piece
- Beef broth (low sodium recommended)2 cups
- Worcestershire sauce2 tbsp
- Cornstarch2 tbsp
- Cold water2 tbsp

This slow-cooked beef brisket recipe yields tender, juicy meat smothered in a silky, savory gravy that will delight your taste buds and warm your home. Perfectly suited for beginner cooks, this method ensures foolproof results with simple ingredients and step-by-step guidance. The total cost of ingredients is about $15 USD / €14 / £12 / ₹1200. Each serving contains approx 400 calories and this recipe is suitable for a regular diet. It requires basic cooking skills, about 15 minutes prep time, plus 6 hours of slow cooking. Enjoy a hearty, comfort meal with minimal effort!
Preparation instructions
Prepare the brisket and seasoning
1Pat the beef brisket dry with paper towels to help it brown better. Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the brisket thoroughly on all sides.
Sear the brisket
2Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the brisket and sear it for about 4-5 minutes per side until nicely browned. This adds flavor and locks juices inside the meat.
Prepare slow cooker base
3Place the sliced onion in the bottom of your slow cooker. Put the seared brisket on top of the onions. Pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the meat.
Slow cook the brisket
4Cover the slow cooker and cook the brisket on low for about 6 hours. The brisket is fully cooked and tender when its internal temperature reaches at least 90°C (195°F), and it is fork-tender. Use a meat thermometer to check temperature safely, avoiding touching bone.
Remove brisket for resting
5Carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Tent with foil and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Resting helps the meat juices redistribute for tender slices.
Make the gravy
6Pour the cooking liquid (with onions) from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Mix cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium heat and slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened into a silky gravy.
Slice and serve
7Slice the brisket thinly against the grain for tenderness. Serve slices topped with homemade gravy. Enjoy your comforting slow-cooked beef brisket with gravy!
Cooking Tips
1Use a meat thermometer to ensure the brisket reaches the safe internal temperature for tenderness: about 90°C (195°F). Lower temps won’t yield tender meat.
2Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables.
3You can substitute beef broth with mushroom broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor.
4If you don't have a slow cooker, you can braise the brisket in a covered oven-safe dish at 150°C (300°F) for 4-5 hours.
Equipment
- Slow cooker or crockpot
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Saucepan for gravy
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
Shopping List
- [ ] Beef brisket (1.5 kg, well-trimmed; look for bright red color and minimal fat) (~$12)
- [ ] Yellow onion (1 large; choose firm and heavy for size) (~$0.80)
- [ ] Beef broth (2 cups; low sodium preferred for better flavor control) (~$1.50)
- [ ] Worcestershire sauce (a small bottle; check for freshness and sealed packaging) (~$2.50)
- [ ] Olive oil (or vegetable oil; extra virgin preferred) (~$0.50 for required amount)
- [ ] Garlic powder (small jar; ensure no lumps) (~$1.00)
- [ ] Onion powder (small jar; fresh and aromatic) (~$1.00)
- [ ] Kosher or sea salt (small pack; not iodized table salt) (~$0.50)
- [ ] Black pepper (whole peppercorns preferred to grind fresh) (~$1.00)
- [ ] Cornstarch (small box; pure cornstarch for thickening) (~$1.00)
Total estimated cost: Approximately $15 USD
Tips: Choose fresh, firm ingredients and check expiration dates on packaged goods. Buying spices from bulk bins can save money if available.
FAQ
Can I prepare the brisket the night before?
Yes, you can season and sear the brisket the night before, then refrigerate it covered. In the morning, add onions, broth, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker and cook as directed.
How do I know when the brisket is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 90°C (195°F), which ensures it’s tender and safe to eat.
Can I use other cuts of beef?
Brisket is ideal for slow cooking due to its fattiness and connective tissue. You could try chuck roast as a substitute but cooking times may vary.
Is it necessary to sear the brisket?
Searing is optional but recommended as it adds rich flavor and beautiful color to the finished dish.