How to Smoke a Brisket on a Pellet Grill

A few days back I shared a recipe on – how to grill steaks on a pit boss pellet grill. The recipe was quite famous and I’m here again with a similar one – how to smoke a brisket on a pellet grill?

I would say this one is also an easy-to-do recipe. There are 5 steps to follow though it may take you a long period of time. In this article, I’m going to clarify everything about this recipe. So, keep on reading.

Table of Contents

Step-by-Step Guide to Smoke a Brisket on Pellet Grill

First, I’ll show you the ingredients and then I’ll discuss the process step by step.

Ingredients

Full packer brisket (11 lbs or as you wish)
Beef rub: 4 tablespoon

Step 1: Trimming the Brisket

Start by trimming your brisket to remove all hard fat and expose the meat. Now, place the raw brisket on a wooden chopping board.

Here I’m suggesting an easy technique. Trim the fat from the point, leaving about a quarter inch on the flat.

NB: If you’re using a high-quality Wagyu brisket like Snake River Farms, you don’t have to worry about removing too much fat as it has plenty of intramuscular fat to prevent drying out.

Step 2: Seasoning the Brisket

At the next step, thoroughly season your brisket on all sides. To do so, you can use a binder like mustard or olive oil. Apply a generous coat of your preferred beef rub, such as Caribeque Bold Beef rub. However, ensure an even distribution. Allow the seasoned brisket to sit on the counter for 20 minutes before placing it on the smoker.

Step 3: Smoking the Brisket on a Pellet Grill

It’s time to discuss the most important part. Prepare your smoker, such as the Pit Boss Pellet grill, and set it to the smoke setting. Make sure to maintain a temperature between 180-190°F.

If your smoker doesn’t have this specific setting, choose the lowest temperature available. This allows the brisket to absorb the smoky flavor it needs. Any smoked wood can be used for the process.

If your smoker has a second rack, place the brisket on it with a foil pan underneath, fat cap facing down. The pan catches dripping fat, and adding a little water provides extra moisture in the cooking chamber.

After 7-8 hours, check the brisket and spritz it with water for the first time. If the bark (outer crust) is satisfactory and the internal temperature reaches 165°F or higher, wrap the brisket with butcher paper.

After that measure the temperature in the thickest part of the flat. Increase the smoker temperature to 250°F. If the brisket isn’t ready to wrap yet, continue spritzing and raise the smoker temperature to 250°F.

After wrapping the brisket, allow it to cook until the thickest part of the flat reaches a temperature range of 200-203°F.

To monitor the temperature, I suggest using an instant-read thermometer or a temperature probe.

Step 4; Resting the Brisket

When the brisket is done, keep it wrapped in butcher paper and further wrap it in an old towel. Place the wrapped brisket in a cooler and keep the lid closed. This method is known as the faux cambro.

However, let the brisket rest for at least one hour, but two hours is ideal. Resting for up to six hours is also possible if needed.

Alternative Tips: Don’t you have a cooler or cambro? In that case, you can set your oven to the lowest temperature (around 170°F) and leave the brisket until they’re ready to slice. Another alternative is wrapping the brisket with plastic wrap, although this isn’t a popular method.

Step 5: Slicing And Serving the Brisket

This is the final step. To slice the brisket use a quality knife. Cut the flat and point at different angles for the best results. You can also shred some of the points for sandwiches.

For a traditional Texas-style presentation, serve the sliced brisket on a sheet of pink butcher paper along with white bread slices and a side of pickles.

That’s everything about – how to smoke a brisket on a pellet grill? Hopefully, you have no more confusion. Well, this is the time for you to get ready and prepare the item for your loved ones. All the best.

FAQ

What type of wood chips or pellets work best for smoking brisket on a pellet grill?

Different woods impart distinct flavors. My Common choices include hickory, mesquite, oak, applewood, and cherrywood. Experiment to find your favorite.

Is it necessary to let the brisket sit at room temperature before smoking it?

While I mentions letting the seasoned brisket sit on the counter for 20 minutes, some prefer letting it sit longer to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Can I use a dry rub instead of a beef rub with mustard or olive oil as a binder?

Yes, a dry rub can be applied directly to the brisket without a binder. The binder helps the rub adhere better, but it’s not essential.

What’s the ideal temperature range for smoking brisket?

The article mentions 180-190°F for the initial smoking phase and 250°F after wrapping. However, some pitmasters prefer different temperature ranges for different results.

How can I tell when the brisket is ready to wrap in butcher paper?

Wrapping is typically done when the bark is set and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. However, you can adjust this based on your preference for bark texture and cooking time.

Why is resting the brisket important?

Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful. It also helps the meat become more tender.

What is the faux cambro method, and why is it used for resting the brisket?

The faux cambro method involves wrapping the brisket in butcher paper and towels, then placing it in a cooler. This helps maintain the meat’s temperature and texture during the resting period.

Can I use the same smoker for other meats, or should I have a separate one for brisket?

You can use the same smoker for other meats, but be aware that the flavors may carry over. Some enthusiasts have separate smokers for different meats to avoid flavor contamination.

What are some side dishes or sauces that pair well with smoked brisket?

Smoked brisket goes great with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, and macaroni and cheese. You can also serve it with barbecue sauce or a tangy vinegar-based sauce.

How long should I let the brisket rest before slicing and serving?

I recommend at least one hour of resting, but two hours is ideal. However, you can extend the resting period up to six hours if needed for scheduling or other reasons.

Can brisket be cooked without smoking it?

Yes, brisket can be cooked without smoking it. There are alternative methods such as roasting, braising, or slow-cooking in the oven, a slow cooker, or an electric smoker. These methods can yield delicious brisket, although the flavor profile may differ from traditional smoked brisket.

What is the best cooking method for brisket?

I belive The best cooking method for brisket can vary based on personal preferences, but smoking it on a pellet grill is a popular and highly regarded method for achieving tender and flavorful results.

Conclusion

I have provided in this article a comprehensive guide on how to smoke a brisket on a pellet grill. The step-by-step instructions cover everything from trimming and seasoning the brisket to the smoking process and resting. I’m trying to address FAQs, common queries that may arise during the brisket smoking journey, offering additional insights and tips. While the article outlines a specific method, the “best” cooking method for brisket ultimately depends on personal taste, but smoking on a pellet grill is a popular and effective choice. Happy grilling, and enjoy your delicious smoked brisket!

Related post:

How to Smoke a Brisket on a Pellet Grill – 5 Steps to Follow