Traeger Bbq Brisket Recipes: Smoky Tender Perfection

I’ve spent years perfecting my Traeger BBQ brisket recipe, and I’m excited to share it with you. The combination of smoky flavor and tender texture is achieved through low-and-slow cooking on my trusty Traeger.

This brisket recipe delivers tender results every time, with a perfect bark that’s sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be enjoying delicious barbecue in no time.

Ingredients for Traeger Bbq Recipes Brisket

Simple ingredients come together for tender, smoky brisket perfection on your Traeger.

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The brisket is the star here. Look for a whole packer brisket at your local butcher or quality grocery store. Costco often has great deals on large briskets. Trim any excessive fat if needed, but leave the fat cap intact. I like to coat mine with Diamond Crystal kosher salt for the best flavor.

No post oak wood chips? Mesquite or hickory work great too. For the rub, feel free to adjust the garlic and onion powder to your taste. If you prefer a stronger bark, increase the brown sugar to 1/2 cup. The apple cider vinegar spritz helps keep the brisket moist during the long cooking process.

This brisket reheats beautifully. Wrap leftover brisket tightly in foil and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, place in a 225°F oven until warmed through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Traeger Bbq Brisket

Here’s the method that’ll give you that perfect, tender brisket every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket for Smoking

Start by trimming any excess fat from the 2.5 lb Beef Brisket if needed, leaving about ¼ inch thickness. I like to pat the brisket dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the rub adhere better. Then, apply a generous amount of the dry rub mixture evenly across all surfaces of the brisket.

The dry rub consists of 2 tbsp Kosher Salt, 1 tbsp Black Pepper, 1 tbsp Garlic Powder, 1 tbsp Onion Powder, and 1 tsp Paprika. Make sure to coat the brisket thoroughly, pressing the spices gently into the meat to ensure they stick. Let the brisket sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before placing it on the Traeger.

Step 2: Set Up Your Traeger for Low and Slow Cooking

Preheat your Traeger to 225°F using 1 cup Wood Chips (post oak or mesquite work well). While the Traeger is heating up, prepare the brisket by coating it with 2 tbsp Olive Oil. This helps create a better bark on the brisket. Once the Traeger is ready, place the brisket on the grill fat side up.

Close the lid and let the brisket cook undisturbed for 4-5 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. During the cooking process, you can spritz the brisket with 0.25 cup Apple Cider Vinegar every hour to keep it moist and add flavor.

Step 3: Finish Cooking and Rest the Brisket

After the brisket reaches 160°F, wrap it tightly in foil with 1 cup Beef Broth and 0.25 cup Brown Sugar. Return the wrapped brisket to the Traeger and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 200-205°F, typically another 2-3 hours.

Once done, remove the brisket from the Traeger and let it rest wrapped for at least 1 hour. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it tender and flavorful. After resting, slice the brisket against the grain and serve.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, unwrap the brisket and slice it against the grain using a sharp knife. The brisket should be tender and easily pull apart. Serve with your favorite barbecue sides and enjoy the tender, smoky perfection of your Traeger BBQ brisket.

Wine and Beer Pairings for This Dish

Wine Pairing Suggestions

A rich, smoky brisket deserves a wine that can stand up to its bold flavors. I recommend a full-bodied red wine like Malbec or Syrah/Shiraz. The dark fruit flavors and spicy notes in these wines complement the brisket’s smokiness beautifully. For a more budget-friendly option, Zinfandel works well too.

Beer Pairing Options

If you prefer beer, a stout or porter is an excellent choice for brisket. The roasted malt flavors echo the smokiness of the Traeger, while the beer’s richness balances the meat’s tenderness. For craft beer enthusiasts, a Texas-style brown ale or a robust amber ale can provide interesting flavor interplay. The beer’s complexity enhances the overall dining experience.

Specific Beverage Recommendations

For a special occasion, consider a brown ale or a Scotch ale. These beers have a malty sweetness that pairs nicely with the brisket’s savory flavors. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp Vienna lager can cleanse your palate between bites. For wine lovers, a Cabernet Sauvignon from Texas or a Petite Sirah from California would be excellent choices.

Additional Tips for Beverage Pairing

When choosing your beverage, consider the brisket’s seasoning. If you’ve used a lot of spice, a sweeter beverage can help balance the heat. Conversely, if your brisket has a sweeter rub, a drier wine or beer might be more appropriate. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings to find your perfect match.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your brisket with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw or baked beans. The creamy texture of coleslaw helps cool down the palate, while baked beans add a sweet contrast. For a more modern twist, try pairing with grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad. The key is to balance the richness of the brisket with complementary flavors. 🍺

Personal Touch

I love serving brisket at backyard gatherings. The combination of tender meat and smoky flavor always impresses my guests. Pairing it with a carefully chosen beverage elevates the experience. I recall one summer barbecue where we paired our Traeger brisket with a local IPA – the hoppy notes cut through the richness beautifully.