Dr Pepper Brisket Sliders: A Deliciously Smoky Recipe

Dr Pepper Brisket Sliders: Prepare to have your taste buds blown away! Imagine tender, smoky brisket, slow-cooked to perfection and infused with the unique, sweet and spicy flavor of Dr Pepper. Then, picture that glorious meat piled high on soft, toasted slider buns. Are you drooling yet? I know I am just thinking about it!

Brisket, a cut of beef from the lower chest of the cow, has a rich history, particularly in Texas barbecue culture. It’s a cut that demands patience and low-and-slow cooking to transform its tough fibers into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. While traditionally smoked with wood, this recipe takes a delightful twist by incorporating the iconic Dr Pepper soda. The sweetness of the Dr Pepper balances the savory, smoky flavors of the brisket, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience.

People adore brisket for its deeply savory flavor and incredibly tender texture when cooked correctly. These Dr Pepper Brisket Sliders elevate the classic brisket experience by adding a touch of sweetness and a fun, handheld format. Sliders are perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or even a satisfying weeknight meal. They’re easy to eat, customizable with your favorite toppings, and always a crowd-pleaser. The Dr Pepper adds a unique depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Get ready to impress with these unbelievably delicious sliders!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Brisket:
• 4-5 lb beef brisket, point cut
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• 1 (12 oz) can Dr Pepper
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• For the Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce:
• 1 cup Dr Pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• For the Sliders:
• 12 slider buns
• Pickles, for serving (optional)
• Coleslaw, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Brisket:

1. Trim the Brisket: Start by trimming the excess fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat on top. This fat will render down during cooking and add flavor and moisture. I like to use a sharp knife for this, and be careful not to remove too much fat!
2. Season the Brisket: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Generously rub this mixture all over the brisket, ensuring every surface is well coated. This is your flavor base, so don’t skimp!
3. Sear the Brisket (Optional but Recommended): Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds a delicious crust and deepens the flavor. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot; you may need to do this in batches. Remove the brisket from the pot and set aside.

Braising the Brisket:

4. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the Dr Pepper, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits are packed with flavor and will add depth to the braising liquid.
6. Add the Brisket Back: Return the brisket to the pot, ensuring it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. If needed, add a little more beef broth to cover. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the brisket.
7. Braise the Brisket: Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pot tightly. Reduce the heat to low and braise for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your brisket. You should be able to easily insert a fork into the thickest part of the brisket with little resistance.
8. Rest the Brisket: Once the brisket is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful brisket. You can even let it rest for an hour or two; just cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

Making the Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce:

9. Combine Ingredients: While the brisket is braising, prepare the Dr Pepper BBQ sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the Dr Pepper, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
10. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
11. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more brown sugar for sweetness, apple cider vinegar for tanginess, or cayenne pepper for heat.

Assembling the Sliders:

12. Shred the Brisket: After the brisket has rested, shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
13. Combine Brisket and BBQ Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the shredded brisket with the Dr Pepper BBQ sauce. Toss to coat evenly. You can add as much or as little sauce as you like, depending on your preference. I like mine nice and saucy!
14. Assemble the Sliders: Lightly toast the slider buns, if desired. Spoon the Dr Pepper brisket onto the bottom buns, then top with pickles and coleslaw (if using). Place the top buns on the sliders and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations:

• Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer, you can cook the brisket in a slow cooker. Sear the brisket as directed, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the onions, garlic, Dr Pepper, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender.
• Smoker Option: For a smoky flavor, you can smoke the brisket before braising it. Smoke the brisket at 225°F for 3-4 hours, then transfer it to the Dutch oven and braise as directed.
• Spice it Up: Add a chopped jalapeño to the braising liquid for extra heat.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet BBQ sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
• Bun Options: Use Hawaiian rolls or potato rolls for a sweeter slider.
• Cheese Please: Add a slice of cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack cheese to the sliders for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: The brisket can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the brisket in the sauce before assembling the sliders. The BBQ sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the Dr Pepper Brisket Sliders with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans.
• These sliders are perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or a casual weeknight meal.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.

Enjoy your delicious Dr Pepper Brisket Sliders! I hope you love them as much as I do!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Dr Pepper Brisket Sliders are truly a game-changer. The sweet and savory combination, the tender, melt-in-your-mouth brisket, and the ease of preparation all come together to create a dish that’s guaranteed to impress. I know I’ve made these for countless gatherings, and they’re always the first thing to disappear. Seriously, prepare for rave reviews!

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s more than just a delicious meal; it’s an experience. The Dr Pepper infusion adds a unique depth of flavor that you simply won’t find anywhere else. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory, creating a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, the sliders are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for game day, backyard barbecues, potlucks, or even a casual weeknight dinner. And let’s be honest, who can resist a juicy, flavorful slider piled high with tender brisket?

Looking for serving suggestions? I love to serve these sliders with a side of creamy coleslaw and crispy sweet potato fries. The cool, tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich brisket, while the sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness and crunch. You could also offer a variety of toppings, such as pickled onions, jalapeños, or a tangy barbecue sauce, to allow your guests to customize their sliders to their liking.

And speaking of customization, there are endless variations you can try to make this recipe your own. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Dr Pepper marinade. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, try using Dr Pepper Cherry instead of regular Dr Pepper. You could even experiment with different types of buns, such as brioche or pretzel rolls, to add a unique texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked brisket from your local deli or grocery store. Just be sure to heat it thoroughly before adding it to the sliders. For a vegetarian option, consider using pulled jackfruit marinated in the Dr Pepper sauce – it mimics the texture of pulled pork surprisingly well!

The possibilities are truly endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of creating something delicious.

I truly believe that this Dr Pepper Brisket slider recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to experience the magic of Dr Pepper Brisket Sliders.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how much your family and friends enjoyed them. Don’t forget to snap a picture of your delicious sliders and tag me on social media! I can’t wait to see your creations. Happy cooking!