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Flavorful BBQ Beef Brisket Sliders Recipe Easy Homemade Pretzel Bun Sandwiches

bbq beef brisket sliders - featured image

These flavorful BBQ beef brisket sliders on pretzel buns combine smoky, tender brisket with chewy, salty buns for a delicious and comforting meal perfect for casual gatherings or quick dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 23 pounds beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, for searing
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey or molasses
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 minced garlic clove
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 8 slider-sized pretzel buns
  • Cheddar cheese slices or sharp white cheddar (optional)
  • Pickles, sliced
  • Coleslaw (optional)
  • Butter, for toasting buns

Instructions

  1. Pat the beef brisket dry with paper towels. Combine smoked paprika (2 tsp), garlic powder (1 tsp), onion powder (1 tsp), brown sugar (2 tbsp), salt (1 tbsp), and freshly ground black pepper (1 tsp) in a small bowl. Rub this spice mix generously all over the brisket. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until a deep brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  3. Transfer the brisket to a slow cooker or smoker set at 225°F (107°C). Cook for 6-8 hours until the meat is fork-tender and pulls apart easily. If using an oven, wrap the brisket tightly in foil and cook at 275°F (135°C) for about 4-5 hours.
  4. While brisket cooks, combine 1 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 2 tbsp honey or molasses, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tsp onion powder in a saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Slice pickles thinly and prepare coleslaw if desired. Slice cheddar cheese to slider size.
  6. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Spread softened butter on the insides of each bun and toast until golden brown and slightly crispy, about 2 minutes per side.
  7. Pull the brisket apart into bite-sized pieces, mix with a few spoonfuls of the BBQ sauce to coat evenly. Pile brisket on the bottom half of each pretzel bun. Top with cheddar slice (if using), pickles, and coleslaw. Cap with the top bun.
  8. Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure brisket reaches 195-205°F internal temperature for perfect tenderness. Rest brisket for at least 20 minutes before shredding. Toast pretzel buns with butter to prevent sogginess. For gluten-free option, use almond flour pretzel buns or lettuce wraps. Store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil and reheat in oven to maintain bun texture.

Nutrition

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