If you’re searching for a comforting, hands-off dinner that delivers bold flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, then this Easy Crockpot Brisket with Rich Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. This slow-cooked classic is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or special gatherings when you want to impress your guests without standing over the stove all day.
In this post, you’ll find everything you need to know about making crockpot brisket—from choosing the right cut of meat to crafting the perfect gravy, and storing leftovers. Plus, we’ve answered the most common questions about this hearty dish to make your cooking experience foolproof.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Brisket Recipe
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Set it and forget it – Minimal prep with maximum flavor
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Rich, homemade gravy – No need for store-bought packets
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Versatile – Pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables
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Perfect texture – The brisket turns fork-tender after hours of slow cooking
Ingredients You’ll Need
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3–4 lbs beef brisket
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1 large onion, sliced
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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3–4 carrots, chopped
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2 cups beef broth
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
Optional for added richness:
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A splash of red wine
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Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the brisket (optional but recommended):
Heat olive oil in a large skillet and brown the brisket on both sides for about 3–4 minutes. This locks in flavor.
2. Prepare the vegetables:
Add sliced onions, garlic, and carrots to the bottom of your slow cooker.
3. Add the brisket:
Place the seared brisket on top of the veggies.
4. Mix the sauce:
In a bowl, mix beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour over the brisket.
5. Slow cook:
Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 5–6 hours, until the brisket is tender.
6. Make the gravy:
Once cooked, remove the brisket and set aside. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan. Mix flour or cornstarch with water and stir it into the liquid. Simmer until it thickens.
7. Slice and serve:
Slice the brisket against the grain, drizzle with gravy, and serve with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this savory brisket with:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Roasted vegetables
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Buttered egg noodles
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Crusty bread
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Steamed green beans or peas
Tips for the Best Crockpot Brisket
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Always slice against the grain for the most tender bites
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Let the brisket rest for 10 minutes before slicing
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Use a fat separator for the gravy if your brisket is extra fatty
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Don’t skip the sear — it really deepens the flavor
Storage & Reheating
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
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Freeze for up to 3 months — slice before freezing for easy reheating
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Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth, or in the microwave
FAQs about Easy Crockpot Brisket
1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, chuck roast or short ribs can be substituted, but brisket gives the most classic flavor.
2. Do I need to sear the meat?
It’s optional but highly recommended to build flavor.
3. Can I make this in the oven?
Yes, cook covered at 300°F for about 3–4 hours.
4. What size slow cooker should I use?
A 6-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe.
5. Can I add potatoes to the crockpot?
Absolutely! Just chop them large so they don’t overcook.
6. What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can be used in a pinch.
7. Is tomato paste necessary?
It adds depth to the gravy, but you can omit it if needed.
8. How do I know when brisket is done?
It should shred easily with a fork.
9. Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the ingredients the night before and start cooking in the morning.
10. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use cornstarch instead of flour for the gravy.
11. Can I double the recipe?
Only if your slow cooker is large enough to fit two briskets without overlapping.
12. Can I use frozen brisket?
It’s best to thaw before cooking for even results.
13. What herbs go well with brisket?
Rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf complement it well.
14. Can I use store-bought gravy?
You can, but the homemade gravy is much more flavorful.
15. What if my brisket is tough?
It likely needs more cook time. Keep slow cooking until it’s tender.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crockpot Brisket with Rich Gravy recipe is the ultimate comfort food that practically cooks itself. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish brings warmth and flavor to the table with minimal effort.
Easy Crockpot Brisket with Rich Gravy Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 –4 lbs beef brisket
- 1 large onion sliced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 3 –4 carrots chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp flour or cornstarch for thickening
- Optional: splash of red wine fresh rosemary or thyme
Instructions
- Sear the Brisket (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on both sides for 3–4 minutes until browned.
- Layer Vegetables: Place sliced onions, garlic, and chopped carrots at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the Brisket: Place the seared brisket on top of the vegetables.
- Mix Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour over the brisket.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 5–6 hours, until the brisket is fork-tender.
- Make Gravy: Remove brisket and set aside. Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan. Mix flour or cornstarch with water and whisk into the liquid. Simmer until thickened.
- Serve: Slice brisket against the grain. Spoon gravy over the top and serve with your favorite sides.
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