BBQ Brisket Melts

When you are craving that warm backyard barbecue flavor but want a comforting and indulgent meal, this BBQ Brisket Melt brings together smoked meat and gooey cheese inside crispy sourdough. Melty and deeply savory, every bite promises a punch of smoky brisket, tangy barbecue sauce, and the irresistible crunch of golden fried onions. It is everything you want from an ultimate sandwich and then some.

This sandwich first came about on a lazy weekend as a reward after a long day of backyard smoking. Since then it is my ritual to save brisket just for these melts because my family always asks about them on Sunday afternoons.

Ingredients

• Smoked brisket: the star of the show look for a dark crust and juicy pink center
• Sourdough bread: thick bakery slices hold up best and add great tang
• Colby jack cheese: smooth melt and mild flavor ideal for a creamy layer
• Provolone cheese: adds stretch and just a little sharpness for balance
• Fried crispy onions: store bought or homemade for a burst of crunch
• Caramelized onions: deeply browned to add sweetness and umami

Instructions

Prepare the Brisket:

Give your brisket a generous coating of mustard and your favorite BBQ rub then wrap it and let it rest in the fridge so the flavors can sink in

Smoke the Brisket:

Set your smoker to a low 210 degrees and load it with hickory pellets once preheated place the brisket inside and leave it undisturbed for at least 9 hours for that deep smoke ring then wrap it in butcher paper and let it go again until you can barely resist the aroma and the brisket feels pillowy and tender to the touch

Caramelize the Onions:

Dice a big sweet onion and cook it in a heavy pan over medium low heat with a splash of oil patiently stir often and let the onions slowly turn soft golden and rich with a hint of sweetness do not rush this step

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Lay out two slices of sourdough and layer on generous slices of brisket colby jack provolone a spoonful of caramelized onions plenty of crispy fried onions and the barbecue sauce you love then top with the final slice of bread

Toast the Melts:

Heat up a cast iron skillet to medium butter the outside of the sandwiches and grill each for about 3 to 4 minutes per side using gentle pressure flip when the first side is deep golden and cheese is visibly melty

Colby jack is my pick because it always reminds me of afterschool snacks with my sister when we would swipe slices straight from the package warm and soft I still sneak an extra bit onto my melt every time Sandwiches like these always seem to bring my family back together around the kitchen counter exchanging stories between every bite

Storage Tips

Wrap any leftover melts in foil and refrigerate they hold up well for two days and you can reheat in a toaster oven for the best crunch Skipping the microwave keeps the bread from turning soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

No brisket on hand Try leftover pulled pork or shredded rotisserie chicken instead Both take on the flavors of the barbecue sauce and still bring plenty of comfort For cheese you can swap Colby jack for Monterey jack or a classic cheddar if you want more bite

Serving Suggestions

These melts are satisfying solo but they shine alongside crunchy slaw pickles or even a handful of kettle chips A tangy vinegar slaw helps cut through the richness making each bite even better

Cultural and Seasonal Perspective

BBQ melts are a modern twist on Southern smokehouse classics but you can put your own spin on them For summer add sliced fresh tomatoes for juiciness In cooler months extra caramelized onions or even sautéed mushrooms make them heartier

These BBQ Brisket Melts deliver layers of savory flavor and comfort. With the right cheese and proper technique, every bite will be golden, crispy, and unforgettable.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How long does it take to smoke the brisket?

The brisket takes about 9-10 hours to smoke at 210°F before wrapping and continuing until tender.

→ Can I use different bread instead of sourdough?

Yes, substituting with your favorite sturdy bread is possible, but sourdough provides ideal texture and flavor.

→ What cheeses complement brisket in this dish?

Colby jack and provolone offer a creamy melt and mild flavor that pair perfectly with smoked brisket.

→ How do I achieve crispy fried onions at home?

Thinly slice onions, coat in flour, and fry until golden and crispy for a homemade crunchy topping.

→ Do I need BBQ sauce for assembling the sandwich?

BBQ sauce adds tangy sweetness and moisture, but you can customize with your preferred amount or omit if desired.