Beef Brisket Tacos are a fun and tasty meal that’s hard to resist! With tender beef, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas, they bring a fiesta to your table.
I always get excited when it’s taco night. It’s so simple to make—just cook the brisket, pile on the toppings, and enjoy. Every bite is packed with flavor! 🌮❤️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: This cut of meat is perfect for slow cooking; it becomes tender and flavorful. If brisket isn’t available, chuck roast can work well as a substitute. Just adjust cooking time as necessary.
Spices: The spice rub is key! If you don’t have smoked paprika, try regular paprika with a drop of liquid smoke. For a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce! If you like a bit of heat, choose a spicy version. You can also swap it out for a homemade sauce or a vinegar-based sauce for a tangy twist.
Tortillas: Corn and flour tortillas are both great options for tacos. If you want a gluten-free choice, use corn tortillas. You can also try lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Coleslaw Mix: Store-bought coleslaw mix is convenient, but fresh shredded cabbage and carrots work too. You can add a bit of dressing or vinegar to give it some zing.
How Can I Make Sure My Brisket is Tender and Shreddable?
Cooking brisket to perfection is all about low and slow heat. This method helps break down tough fibers, turning it into something you can shred easily. Here are some steps to keep in mind:
- Keep the oven temperature low (300°F) for even cooking.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil to lock in moisture. This creates a steamy environment that helps the meat tenderize.
- Cook until it easily pulls apart with a fork; this usually takes 3-4 hours. Don’t rush it!
- Let the brisket rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
How to Make BBQ Beef Brisket Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Brisket:
- 3 pounds beef brisket
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
For the Tacos:
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Pickled jalapeños (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 3-4 hours to cook in the oven. After cooking, let the brisket rest for 20 minutes before shredding it. Overall, you can expect to spend around 4 hours to enjoy your delicious BBQ Beef Brisket Tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method will help make the brisket tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful spice blend will give your brisket a delicious kick!
3. Season the Brisket:
Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure it’s well-coated on all sides. It should look nice and flavorful!
4. Bake the Brisket:
Place the seasoned brisket in a large baking dish and pour the beef broth around it. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep all those tasty juices in. Bake in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is very tender and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Shred the Brisket:
Once the brisket is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute. After resting, use two forks to shred the brisket into bite-sized pieces.
6. Mix with BBQ Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the shredded brisket with BBQ sauce, adjusting the amount according to your taste. Mix it all up so every piece is coated with that yummy sauce!
7. Warm the Tortillas:
Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they are pliable and ready to hold all that tasty filling. A little warmth makes them extra delicious!
8. Assemble the Tacos:
Time to put everything together! Take a tortilla and fill it with a generous amount of the BBQ brisket. Top it off with coleslaw mix and chopped cilantro for that fresh flavor. If you like a little heat, add pickled jalapeños to your tacos!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ beef brisket tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side and extra BBQ sauce if you want to drizzle more on top. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef Instead of Brisket?
Absolutely! You can substitute brisket with cuts like chuck roast or short rib. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it and adjust as needed until the meat is tender and shreddable.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the tortillas, wrap them in foil or place them in a zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat the brisket gently on the stove or microwave, and warm the tortillas just before assembling your tacos again.
Can I Make the Brisket Ahead of Time?
Yes! The brisket can be cooked 1-2 days in advance. Once cooled, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat gently before mixing with BBQ sauce. This makes it a great make-ahead meal for gatherings!
What Should I Do If My Brisket Isn’t Tender After Cooking?
If the brisket isn’t fork-tender after the initial cooking time, cover it back up and continue baking for another 30 minutes to 1 hour. You can also check the liquid level; if it’s low, add a bit more beef broth to help it steam.
