Description
This Slow Cooker Brisket with Balsamic Gravy is the ultimate make-ahead comfort dish. The beef becomes meltingly tender in the slow cooker while bathing in a rich, slightly sweet balsamic-infused gravy. Perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 3.5 to 4 lb beef brisket (flat cut preferred)
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil (for searing, optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or flour (for thickening gravy)
Instructions
- Pat brisket dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
- (Optional) Sear brisket in a hot skillet with oil for 4–5 minutes per side until browned.
- Place sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together broth, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Place brisket on top of onions and pour the sauce mixture over everything.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours (or HIGH for 4–5 hours), until fork-tender.
- Remove brisket and let rest for 10–15 minutes.
- Pour cooking liquid into a saucepan. Skim fat and bring to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch or flour with a splash of water to make a slurry and whisk into simmering liquid.
- Simmer until gravy thickens to desired consistency.
- Slice brisket against the grain and serve with balsamic gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (Low)