BBQ Brisket Melts

There’s nothing quite like the combination of tender, smoky BBQ brisket with melty cheese, all sandwiched between toasted slices of bread. BBQ Brisket Melts are the ultimate comfort food, blending the rich, bold flavors of slow-cooked beef brisket with the satisfying, cheesy goodness of a melt sandwich. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack, these sandwiches bring the taste of the grill indoors and are ideal for any BBQ lover. Whether you’re using leftover brisket or preparing it fresh, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to become a family favorite.

History of BBQ Brisket

BBQ brisket is a cornerstone of American barbecue, particularly in Texas, where smoking brisket has been perfected into an art form. Brisket, cut from the lower chest of the cow, is known for its tough texture, which, when cooked low and slow, becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. The brisket is traditionally seasoned with a dry rub of spices and slow-cooked over wood smoke for several hours, allowing the fat to render and the meat to absorb the smoky flavor.

Over time, brisket has found its way into many creative recipes, and pairing it with cheese in a sandwich is one such invention. The BBQ Brisket Melt is a relatively modern twist, inspired by the popularity of grilled cheese and other comfort food sandwiches. This delicious combination brings together the best of two worlds: barbecue and melts.

Ingredients

To make the perfect BBQ Brisket Melts, gather the following ingredients:

For the Brisket:

• 2 to 3 pounds of beef brisket, preferably smoked (leftover or freshly cooked)
• 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce

• For the Sandwich:

  • 8 slices of thick-cut sourdough or Texas toast
  • 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
  • 8 slices of sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices of provolone or pepper jack cheese (for extra flavor)
  • Caramelized onions (optional but highly recommended)
  • Pickles (optional, for serving)

  Step-by-Step Instructions

   

   

  1. Prepare the Brisket

  If you’re starting with leftover brisket, you can reheat it gently. However, if you’re making brisket from scratch, follow these steps:

  • Preheat your oven to 275°F.
  • In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the brisket.
  • Place the brisket in a roasting pan or a smoker, fat side up, and cook it low and slow for 3 to 4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 195°F and the meat is fork-tender.
  • Remove the brisket from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

  2. Prepare the Sandwich Components

   

   

  While your brisket is resting or reheating, it’s time to prepare the sandwich components:

  • Caramelize the onions: In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of butter and the sliced onions. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and soft. Set them aside.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. This spread will add creaminess and a tangy kick to the sandwich.

  3. Assemble the BBQ Brisket Melts

  Now comes the fun part—building the sandwich:

  • Lay out your sourdough bread slices and butter one side of each slice. On the unbuttered side, spread the mayo-mustard mixture evenly.
  • Place one slice of cheddar cheese on the unbuttered side of four of the bread slices. Top with a generous portion of sliced brisket. If using caramelized onions, add a layer on top of the brisket for an extra touch of sweetness.
  • Drizzle a small amount of your favorite BBQ sauce over the brisket to enhance the smoky, tangy flavor. Add a slice of provolone or pepper jack cheese for extra gooey goodness.
  • Place the remaining slices of bread, butter side up, on top of each sandwich.

  • 4. Grill the Sandwiches

    Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the sandwiches on the skillet, butter side down. Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

    Be sure to flip the sandwiches carefully, ensuring the filling stays intact, and cook until both sides are crispy and the cheese inside is fully melted.

    5. Serve the BBQ Brisket Melts

    Once the sandwiches are golden and toasty, remove them from the skillet and let them cool for a minute or two. Slice each sandwich in half, revealing the mouthwatering layers of melted cheese and tender brisket. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, and add pickles if desired to balance out the rich flavors.

    6. Pairing Suggestions

    These BBQ Brisket Melts pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a tangy coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad. A crisp, cold drink like lemonade or iced tea perfectly complements the smoky flavors of the brisket.

    Conclusion

    This BBQ Brisket Melt is the ultimate sandwich for barbecue lovers, offering a rich blend of textures and flavors. The smoky brisket, combined with gooey cheese and tangy BBQ sauce, makes for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re using leftover brisket or cooking it fresh, this recipe transforms a simple sandwich into a show-stopping meal.