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BBQ Brisket Tacos

Yields6 ServingsPrep Time20 minsCook Time20 minsTotal Time40 mins

BBQ Brisket Tacos made with tender smoked brisket, tossed in rich barbecue sauce and tucked into warm tortillas with fresh toppings. These easy brisket tacos are the perfect way to use leftover brisket and bring bold Texas BBQ flavor to taco night.

BBQ Brisket Tacos

For the Brisket
 4 cups cooked BBQ brisket (chopped or shredded)
 34 cups BBQ sauce (smoky or peppery works best)
 1 tsp chili powder
 ½ tsp cumin (optional)
 Splash of beef broth or brisket juices (optional, for moisture)
For the Tacos
 12 small tortillas (corn or flour)
 1 tbsp oil or butter (for warming tortillas)
Toppings (Mix & Match)
 Shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
 Pickled red onions
 Sliced jalapeños
 Fresh cilantro
 Diced red onion
 Cotija or shredded cheddar
 Lime wedges
Optional Sauce
 Chipotle crema or sour cream
 Hot sauce
Heat the brisket
1

  • Heat a skillet over medium heat.

  • Add brisket, BBQ sauce, chili powder, and cumin.

  • Stir gently and cook 10–15 minutes, adding broth if needed.

  • Brisket should be hot, saucy, and slightly caramelized.

Warm the tortillas
2

  • Heat tortillas in a dry skillet, grill, or wrapped in foil in the oven.

  • Keep warm in a towel.

Assemble tacos
3

  • Add brisket to tortillas.

  • Top with slaw, onions, jalapeños, and cheese.

  • Finish with crema, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Side Information (Great Taco Companions)
4

  • Mexican street corn (elote)

  • Black beans or refried beans

  • Cilantro-lime rice

  • Tortilla chips & salsa

  • Grilled peppers and onions

Pairing Suggestions
5

  • Beer: Mexican lager, amber ale, or pale ale

  • Wine: Zinfandel, Syrah, or Grenache

  • Non-alcoholic: Lime agua fresca, cola, or iced tea

Tips & Notes
6

  • Chop brisket instead of shredding for better taco texture.

  • Don’t over-sauce—BBQ should complement, not drown.

  • Corn tortillas give a street-taco feel; flour makes it heartier.

  • Crisp brisket briefly in a hot pan for extra flavor.

  • Leftover brisket tacos make incredible quesadillas or nachos.

Nutrition Facts

6 servings

Serving size