There’s just something magical about slow cooker meals, isn’t there? I mean, you toss in a few ingredients, set it, and forget it while the aroma fills your home. It’s like a warm hug after a long day! My slow cooker brisket with balsamic onion gravy is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. The tender brisket practically falls apart, soaking in that rich balsamic gravy, which has just the right amount of sweetness from the onions and brown sugar. Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion! Plus, it’s so easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. You can set it and get back to what you love while dinner cooks itself. Who wouldn’t love that?

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Brisket with Balsamic Onion Gravy

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth brisket! Here’s what you’ll need to make my delicious slow cooker brisket with balsamic onion gravy:

• 3 pounds beef brisket – Look for a well-marbled cut for maximum tenderness.
• 2 large onions, sliced – Sweet onions work beautifully here, enhancing the flavor of the gravy.
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar – This adds a tangy depth and sweetness that’s simply divine.
• 1 cup beef broth – Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – It balances the acidity of the balsamic and caramelizes beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the brisket and adding richness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor that you can’t beat!
• 1 teaspoon salt – Adjust to your taste, but don’t skip it!
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is best for a little kick.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – This herb complements the dish perfectly with its earthy notes.

Make sure you have everything ready to go, and you’ll be set for a cooking adventure that’s bound to impress!

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Brisket with Balsamic Onion Gravy

Now, let’s dive into the preparation! Each step is super easy and will have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time! Just follow along, and you’ll have a glorious meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

Step 1: Sear the Brisket

First things first—let’s get that brisket seared! Heat up a skillet over medium-high heat and add your olive oil. You want it nice and hot, so when you lay the brisket in, it sizzles beautifully. Season your brisket with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides for about 3-4 minutes each. This step is crucial because it locks in those yummy juices and gives the meat a lovely, golden crust. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part!

Step 2: Layer the Onions

Next up, let’s work on those onions. Slice your sweet onions into thin rings; this will help them caramelize beautifully in the slow cooker. Add the sliced onions to the bottom of your slow cooker—this creates a delicious bed for the brisket and adds tons of flavor as it cooks. You want all that goodness soaking into the meat!

Step 3: Create the Balsamic Gravy Mixture

Now for the star of the show—the balsamic gravy! In a bowl, mix together the balsamic vinegar, beef broth, brown sugar, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Give it a good stir until everything is combined. This mixture is where the magic happens, balancing the tanginess of the balsamic with the sweetness of the onions and brown sugar. It’s seriously delicious!

Step 4: Cooking the Brisket

Time to bring it all together! Place your seared brisket right on top of the onions in the slow cooker, then pour that luscious balsamic mixture over it. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 8 hours. Yes, 8 whole hours! This low and slow method is what makes the brisket tender and flavorful, breaking down the tough fibers until it’s melt-in-your-mouth good.

Step 5: Resting and Slicing the Brisket

After those long 8 hours, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time is super important; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, slice it against the grain for the best texture, and don’t forget to drizzle that amazing balsamic onion gravy over the top. It’s pure heaven on a plate!

Tips for Success with Slow Cooker Brisket with Balsamic Onion Gravy

Want to make sure your slow cooker brisket turns out perfect every time? I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that will help you achieve that tender, flavorful masterpiece you’re dreaming of!

• Use a Meat Thermometer: This is your best friend! Insert it into the thickest part of the brisket. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of about 195°F (90°C) for that fall-apart tenderness. Don’t worry, it’ll get there with the low and slow method!
• Check for Tenderness: The brisket should be fork-tender when it’s done. If it feels a bit tough when you check it, give it another hour in the slow cooker. Every cut of meat is a bit different, so don’t rush it!
• Keep the Lid On: I know it’s tempting to peek, but try to keep the lid on as much as possible during cooking. Each time you lift it off, you release precious heat and steam, which can extend cooking time.
• Let It Rest: Please, don’t skip the resting step! It really makes a difference. Allowing the brisket to rest for about 15 minutes after cooking helps keep those juices locked in, resulting in a much juicier bite.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to play around with the seasoning! If you like a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes. Or, if you want to elevate the herb flavor, sprinkle in some rosemary or oregano.
• Pair with Sides: This dish is fantastic with sides! Think creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even roasted vegetables to soak up that luscious gravy.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a slow cooker brisket that will impress anyone lucky enough to share your table!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the nutritional side of my slow cooker brisket with balsamic onion gravy! This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you satisfied. Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you’re getting with each slice:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keep in mind that these numbers can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of broth or the cut of brisket. But overall, you’re looking at a hearty meal that’s sure to please without derailing your healthy eating goals. Enjoy every bite guilt-free!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While brisket is my go-to for this recipe due to its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked low and slow, you can definitely experiment with other cuts. Chuck roast is a fantastic alternative; it’s also well-marbled and will turn out tender with similar cooking times. If you’re looking for something leaner, sirloin works too, but you may want to adjust the cooking time since it can dry out faster. Just remember, the key is to choose a cut that can handle long, slow cooking for those melt-in-your-mouth results!

How should I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers properly is super important to keep that deliciousness intact! Once your brisket has cooled down, slice it into portions and place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it—just wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and then pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently either in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. Trust me, it’ll taste just as amazing as the first time!

What can I serve with slow cooker brisket?

This brisket is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level! I love serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up that glorious balsamic onion gravy. If you’re looking for something lighter, roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad make for a delightful contrast. You can also go for classic comfort food like rice pilaf or even soft dinner rolls to mop up every last bit of gravy. Whatever you choose, just know that this brisket is versatile enough to shine alongside a variety of tasty sides!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just sear, layer, and let the slow cooker do the magic—it’s that simple!
• Rich, Flavorful Gravy: The balsamic onion gravy adds a depth of flavor that elevates the brisket to another level.
• Incredible Tenderness: Cooking low and slow transforms the brisket into a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch, and enjoy leftovers for days—it’s versatile and reheats beautifully!
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with spices or side dishes to make it your own!

Slow Cooker Brisket with Balsamic Onion Gravy Magic

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• Autor: Julia marin
• Całkowity Czas: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Ustępować: 6 servings 1x
• Dieta: Bez Glutenu

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Opis

Slow cooker brisket with balsamic onion gravy is a tender and flavorful dish.

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Składniki

Skala 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds beef brisket
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

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Instrukcje

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season brisket with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides.
3. Add sliced onions to the slow cooker.
4. Place seared brisket on top of onions.
5. In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, beef broth, brown sugar, garlic, and thyme.
6. Pour the mixture over the brisket.
7. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until tender.
8. Remove brisket and let rest before slicing.
9. Serve with gravy over the top.

Uwagi

• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Great served with mashed potatoes or rice.

• Czas Przygotowania: 20 minutes
• Czas gotowania: 8 hours
• Kategoria: Main Dish
• Sposób: Slow Cooker
• Kuchnia: American

Zasilanie

• Wielkość porcji: 1 slice
• Kalorie: 350
• Cukier: 5g
• Sód: 600mg
• Kwasy: 20g
• Nasycony tłuszcz: 7g
• Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 10g
• Tłuszcze trans: 0g
• Węglowodany: 10g
• Włókno: 1g
• Białko: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Słowa kluczowe: slow cooker, brisket, balsamic onion gravy