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Smoke a 15-Pound Brisket

Smoked 15 Pound Brisket Recipe Card

Smoking a 15-pound brisket results in tender, smoky meat. This guide covers selecting, seasoning, smoking, and resting to ensure perfect brisket every time.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 hours
Rest Time 3 hours
Total Time 15 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 People
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Brisket:
  • 1 whole packer brisket (12–16 lbs, ideally 15 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp coarse salt
  • 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
  • Olive oil or yellow mustard (as binder)
Wood Options:
  • Hickory, oak, pecan, or a mix with cherry
For Basting / Drip Pan:
  • 1 sliced onion
  • 4–5 garlic cloves
  • 1 can beer (or broth)

Equipment

  • Pellet or offset smoker
  • Butcher paper or aluminum foil
  • Sharp knife (14-inch brisket knife)
  • Meat thermometer (instant-read preferred)
  • Large cutting board
  • Cooler and towel (for resting)

Method
 

  1. 1. Trim the BrisketTrim excess fat, leaving a ¼-inch fat cap. Shape the edges to prevent burning.
  2. 2. Season GenerouslyRub the brisket with binder, then coat with seasoning on all sides. Rest in fridge overnight.
  3. 3. Preheat SmokerHeat smoker to 225°F. Add preferred wood chips or pellets.
  4. 4. Smoke – Phase OnePlace brisket fat-side up. Smoke for 12–13 hours until internal temp hits 165°F.
  5. 5. Wrap and Continue CookingWrap in butcher paper and return to smoker. Cook for 5–8 more hours until temp reaches 202°F.
  6. 6. Rest the BrisketTransfer wrapped brisket to a cooler. Rest 1–3 hours for juices to settle.
  7. 7. Slice and ServeCut the brisket against the grain. Serve with mac and cheese or BBQ sides.

Notes

Tips

  • Always slice flat and point sections correctly to preserve tenderness.
  • Use coffee rub or beer in drip pan for added depth.
  • Test doneness with bend, hang, and pull methods.
  • Avoid rushing—low and slow gives the best results.
The calorie count is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. For more accurate results, refer to the nutrition labels on your ingredients.