When it comes to indulgent comfort food, BBQ Brisket Melts are in a league of their own. Imagine tender, smoky brisket layered with melty cheese, caramelized onions, and tangy BBQ sauce, all sandwiched between perfectly toasted bread. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a surefire way to impress at casual gatherings, game days, or even a cozy dinner at home. Let’s dive into how you can create this savory masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Brisket:

• Brisket: Trimmed of excess fat.
• Mustard: Used as a binder.
• Favorite brisket rub: Preferably pepper-forward.
• Hickory pellets: For smoking.
• Apple cider vinegar: For wrapping.
• Beef tallow: 3-4 tablespoons.

For the Onions:

• 2 whole onions: Diced.
• Avocado oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Kosher salt: 1 tablespoon.
• Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons.

For the Sandwich:

• Sourdough bread: Sturdy and flavorful.
• Fried crispy onions: For crunch.
• Colby Jack cheese: 2 slices per sandwich.
• Provolone cheese: 2 slices per sandwich.
• Favorite BBQ sauce: To taste.
• Unsalted butter: For toasting.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

1. Trim the brisket of excess fat and apply mustard all over as a binder.
2. Season generously with a pepper-forward brisket rub and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
3. Smoke the brisket on a pellet smoker at 210°F with hickory pellets, placing a water pan underneath. Smoke for 9-10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165-170°F.
4. Wrap the brisket in butcher’s paper with a splash of apple cider vinegar and beef tallow. Continue smoking at 250°F until the internal temperature reaches 204-206°F.
5. Rest the wrapped brisket in a cooler for 2-3 hours before slicing.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, kosher salt, and butter. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Take slices of sourdough bread and layer as follows:
   • Fried crispy onions.
   • Colby Jack cheese.
   • Slices of brisket.
   • Caramelized onions.
   • BBQ sauce.
   • Provolone cheese.
   • Top slice of bread.

Step 4: Toast the Sandwiches

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and melt some butter.
2. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
3. Remove from heat, slice, and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts

1. Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality brisket and fresh bread make all the difference.
2. Take Your Time: Low-and-slow smoking ensures tender and flavorful brisket. Don’t rush the process.
3. Layer Thoughtfully: Distribute ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
4. Experiment with Add-Ons: Add pickled jalapeños, crispy bacon, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for a twist.
5. Control the Heat: Toast the sandwiches on medium heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts completely.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Brisket Melts combine the best of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors in one handheld delight. It’s the perfect blend of textures—crunchy bread, gooey cheese, and tender brisket—making it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re serving it at a party or indulging in a solo treat, this recipe will become a new favorite. Give it a try and savor every bite!