Are you craving a delicious, fall-apart brisket but don't have all day to slow-cook it? This air fryer brisket recipe delivers juicy, tender perfection in a fraction of the time, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Say goodbye to hours of simmering and hello to a flavorful, restaurant-quality brisket that's surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, providing a delicious and satisfying quick dinner idea. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lb beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Brisket
Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this mixture all over the brisket, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Step 2: Air Fry the Brisket
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the seasoned brisket in the air fryer basket, making sure it's not overcrowded. Air fry for 20 minutes, then flip the brisket and air fry for another 20 minutes.
Step 3: Add Broth and Continue Cooking
Pour 1 cup of beef broth into the air fryer basket around the brisket. This helps keep the meat moist and adds flavor. Continue air frying for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C) for medium-rare to medium. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the brisket from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful brisket. Slice against the grain for the most tender bite. Serve your delicious air fryer brisket with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad all pair perfectly.
Cooking Tips for Air Fryer Brisket Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Ensure proper air circulation for even cooking. You may need to cook the brisket in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your brisket is cooked to the desired level of doneness.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness and size of your brisket and your specific air fryer model.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your preference. Try adding brown sugar, cumin, or chili powder for different flavor profiles.
Variations:
- BBQ Brisket: After cooking, brush the brisket with your favorite BBQ sauce and air fry for a few more minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Spicy Brisket: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add other chili flakes for a spicier kick.
- Garlic Herb Brisket: Substitute the smoked paprika with dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano for a fragrant and herbaceous flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 3lb brisket, yielding approximately 6 servings. Nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This air fryer brisket recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are also quick and easy to prepare. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners alike. Enjoy!