Beef brisket is a classic BBQ staple that is smoky, tender and full of flavor when slowly smoked or braised in a smoker or oven But did you know you can also make amazing brisket in an air fryer? With the right techniques, air-fried brisket can be just as moist and delicious, in a fraction of the time.
Follow this guide to learn how to cook brisket in an air fryer to crispy, juicy perfection. We’ll provide tips on choosing the right brisket, prep steps for success, recommended cook times and temperatures, and serving suggestions to make your brisket shine. Soon you’ll be serving up restaurant-worthy brisket from the convenience of your countertop air fryer.
Why Cook Brisket in an Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer has several advantages for brisket
- Shortens cook time significantly compared to smoking
- Provides crispy, browned exterior
- Result is less greasy than oven braising
- Infuses spices and rubs efficiently
- Easy cleanup with minimal mess
- Allows you to cook smaller portions
While authentic pit-smoked brisket can’t be replicated fully, air frying makes enjoying brisket on a weeknight possible.
Picking the Right Brisket for the Air Fryer
When selecting a brisket, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose a smaller brisket, 3-4 lbs for air fryer capacity
- Look for good marbling throughout the flat for moisture
- Pick a brisket with flexible texture, not stiff
- Trim excess hard fat before cooking
- Allow 1/3 lb per person for servings
The marbling ensures tender, juicy meat while trimming minimizes greasiness.
Prepping Brisket for the Air Fryer
To prep brisket for crispy, flavorful results:
- Pat the brisket dry thoroughly with paper towels
- Apply a dry rub generously on all sides
- Refrigerate for 1-12 hours to let rub penetrate
- Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F before adding brisket
These simple steps set you up for the perfect texture and flavor.
How to Cook Brisket in an Air Fryer
Follow this process for brisket bliss:
- Cook brisket fat side up for 20 minutes per pound
- Baste with sauce every 30 minutes during cooking
- Check temperature frequently, remove at 195°F for slicing
- Allow brisket to rest 10-15 minutes before carving
- Slice brisket across the grain for tenderness
Resting the brisket ensures the meat reabsorbs all its juices.
Handy Air Fryer Brisket Tips
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness
- Spritz with broth if brisket looks dry
- Add smoked paprika, garlic, cumin to rub for flavor
- Finish with bbq sauce or try injections if desired
- Save drippings to make au jus or gravy
Serving Your Air Fried Beef Brisket
Your brisket pairs nicely with:
- Classic bbq sides like baked beans, coleslaw, cornbread
- A fresh green salad or broccoli slaw
- Buttery mashed potatoes or potato salad
- Crusty bread, biscuits or corn muffins
- Pickles, pickled red onions, pepperoncini
- Beer, bourbon or an icy cold glass of milk
Leftover brisket also shines in sandwiches, tacos, soups or breakfast hash.
With the right preparation and cooking technique, air fryers can churn out incredibly moist, tender and flavorful brisket in a fraction of the traditional time. Ditch the slow smoker in favor of your nifty air fryer next time brisket cravings strike for fantastic results and minimal effort.
Beef Brisket in the Air Fryer
FAQ
How long does it take to cook brisket in an air fryer?
How is brisket best cooked?
Can you slow cook meat in an air fryer?
Should you use an air fryer to cook brisket?
With an air fryer, the efficient heat distribution and controlled environment can mimic the slow-cooking process, resulting in a perfectly cooked brisket in a fraction of the time it traditionally takes. Select a well-marbled beef brisket, as it contains the right amount of fat to keep the meat moist during cooking.
Can one cook broccoli in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook broccoli in the air fryer like any other vegetable. You can add a little salt, garlic powder and pepper to enhance the flavor.
How long to cook beef brisket in air fryer?
Place the brisket in the air fryer basket, fat side up. The fat will render and help to keep the brisket moist during cooking. The cooking time for beef brisket in an air fryer will depend on the size and thickness of the brisket. As a general rule, cook the brisket for 20 minutes per pound.
Why do you flip a brisket in an air fryer?
Flipping the brisket allows both sides to cook evenly and ensures that you achieve that perfect tenderness throughout. Here are three reasons why flipping the brisket is essential: Promotes even browning: Flipping the brisket allows both sides to have equal exposure to the hot air in the air fryer.