Brisket is one of the most delicious barbecue meats, but reheating it can be tricky.

Done incorrectly, you can end up with dry, tough meat instead of the tender, juicy slices you enjoyed the first time around. Whether you’ve got leftovers from a cookout or meal prepping for later, here’s the best way to reheat brisket while preserving its texture and flavor.

The best way to reheat brisket while keeping it juicy is to use slow, low-heat methods like the oven, sous vide, or a smoker.

Best Methods for Reheating Brisket

Here are the top reheating methods ranked from best to worst in terms of preserving flavor and moisture.

1. Oven (Best for Large Portions)

Using the oven is the best way to reheat brisket while keeping it tender and juicy. Steps:

• Preheat your oven to 225-250°F.
• Place the brisket in a baking dish and add a bit of beef broth or its own juices.
• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for 45-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Slice and serve immediately.

2. Sous Vide (Best for Maximum Moisture Retention)

This method requires a sous vide machine but is excellent for reheating brisket without overcooking it. Steps:

• Set your sous vide machine to 165°F.
• Seal the brisket in a vacuum-sealed bag or a zip-top bag using the water displacement method.
• Submerge the brisket in the water bath and heat for 1-2 hours, depending on thickness.
• Remove, slice, and serve.

3. Smoker or Grill (Best for Adding Extra Smoky Flavor)

If you want to reintroduce some smoky flavor, using a smoker or grill is a great option. Steps:

• Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
• Wrap the brisket in foil with some beef broth to prevent drying out.
• Place it on indirect heat and reheat for 30-45 minutes.
• Check that the internal temperature is 165°F before serving.

4. Stovetop (Quick but Requires Careful Monitoring)

The stovetop works well for reheating sliced brisket rather than whole portions. Steps:

• Heat a pan over medium-low heat.
• Add a small amount of beef broth or butter.
• Place brisket slices in the pan and cover with a lid.
• Heat for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they don’t dry out.

5. Microwave (Not Recommended, But Works in a Pinch)

While the microwave is the fastest option, it’s also the worst for texture. Steps:

• Place brisket slices in a microwave-safe dish.
• Add a bit of beef broth or BBQ sauce.
• Cover with a damp paper towel.
• Heat on 50% power in 30-second intervals until warm.

How to Store Brisket for Reheating

Before we dive into reheating methods, proper storage is key to keeping brisket fresh. Follow these steps:

Let it Cool Properly

Allow the brisket to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent excess condensation. Rapidly cooling meat can cause moisture loss, leading to dry brisket when reheated. If possible, let it rest uncovered for about 30 minutes before storing.

Wrap It Well

Use airtight storage containers, and vacuum-sealed bags, or wrap the brisket in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Proper wrapping also helps to lock in the smoky flavor and natural juices, ensuring it tastes just as good when reheated.

Store with Juices

If possible, store the brisket with its natural juices or add a little beef broth to keep it moist. This extra liquid helps to maintain tenderness and prevents the brisket from becoming overly dry during reheating.

Refrigerate or Freeze

Brisket lasts up to four days in the refrigerator and up to three months in the freezer. If freezing, wrap it tightly and place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. When ready to reheat, allow frozen brisket to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.

Tips for Reheating Brisket

Reheating brisket properly requires attention to detail to maintain its moisture and texture. Keep these final tips in mind:

• Always reheat brisket slowly to prevent it from drying out.
• Avoid overcooking—once it reaches 165°F, it’s ready to eat.
• If reheating sliced brisket, keep the slices together to retain moisture.
• For added flavor, brush with BBQ sauce or serve with au jus.
• If using the oven, place a small pan of water on a lower rack to add humidity and prevent drying.
• Let reheated brisket rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure even heating and prevent overcooking.

Brisket Recipes

• Thyme and Garlic Brisket
• Braised Beef Brisket
• Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce

Insider’s Insight

Reheating brisket the right way ensures that every bite remains as flavorful and tender as when it was first cooked. Whether you opt for the oven, sous vide, smoker, or stovetop, the key is to reheat it slowly and with moisture. Avoid the microwave if possible, and always store your brisket properly for the best results. With the right approach, you can enjoy delicious, juicy brisket even days after it was first made!