Easy Beef Brisket Sandwich Recipe (Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free)

Easy beef brisket sandwich! Tender, juicy, smoky brisket layered with crunchy cabbage and smoky BBQ sauce- made gluten-free and packed with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch!

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✋🏼E aí, pessoal! Hey there, friends!

Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s become a staple in our home—a beef brisket sandwich that brings together tender, smoky brisket with fresh sliced cabbage, sweet BBQ sauce, and a satisfying crunch in every bite.

It is the perfect recipe if you have leftover Brisket Stew!

As a busy mom, I started cooking brisket for its hands-off simplicity. You pop it in the slow cooker, and hours later, it’s tender and full of that smoky, savory goodness. We cook our tender beef brisket stew weekly and often end up with leftovers (which I am NOT complaining about!). But I wanted a brisket leftover meal that still had all those rich, comforting flavors with a fresh twist. This sandwich nails it! With crunchy cabbage, tangy pickles, and a hint of BBQ sweetness, it’s a satisfying way to bring out all the best in that brisket.

For me, it’s also a safe and comforting alternative to eating out, especially with a gluten allergy—no worries about ingredients here, just pure, familiar flavors. So give it a try, and if you love this recipe, check out the beef brisket stew that inspired this recipe, or our juicy no-filler burgers (gluten-free) or easy meatless meatballs!

🥪Main Ingredients & Flavor Notes

For our beef brisket sandwich, we’re keeping it simple with layers of flavor and texture. This recipe uses leftover brisket from our beef brisket stew recipe! However, if you don’t have leftover brisket, no worries; we included a simple, easy slow cooker method below for a tender, juicy brisket paired —perfect for sandwiches.

Brisket Preparation (if making from scratch):

If you are using leftover brisket from our brisket stew, you can skip this section.

• Beef Brisket: Look for a cut with even marbling for a tender texture.
• Avocado Oil: we only use this ingredient for searing, which locks in moisture and adds flavor. Don't skip this step if you want a juicy brisket!
• Mushroom Bouillon Cube: Adds earthy depth to the broth. I prefer to use mushroom flavor over beef as it adds such a wonderful full flavor to our brisket!
• Fresh Onion: Sliced thin to melt into the broth and add sweetness.
• Fresh Garlic: Adds warmth and a comforting aroma.
• Gluten-Free Soy Sauce or Worcestershire Sauce: Adding umami enhances the brisket’s richness.
• Red Wine: Optional to add, the red wine will enhance the beef’s richness and provide a subtle acidity that balances the flavors.
• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: Provides a subtle herbal note.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness.
• Water: Enough to partially cover the brisket for a concentrated broth.

Sandwich Ingredients:

• Leftover Brisket: Brisket makes for such a delicious sandwich filling. If you don’t have leftover brisket, use our slow cooker method for an easy, hands-off melt-in-your-mouth recipe.
• Burger Buns or Hearty Bread (Gluten-Free): I go for a hearty gluten-free bread to hold up against the brisket’s juices. For me, hamburger buns make the best sandwiches and are easy to find gluten-free. If you aren't gluten-free, ciabatta, brioche, or sourdough works well. Choose what fits your personal preference for the best sandwich experience.
• Cabbage: Adding shredded cabbage, shredded Brussels sprouts, or crunchy coleslaw gives a fresh crunch that complements the tender brisket.
• Pickles: I prefer bread and butter pickles for their tangy sweetness that cuts through the brisket’s richness and adds a bright pop of flavor. You can use dill pickles if that’s more your style.
• Mayo or Horseradish Aioli: For a hint of creaminess, a small amount of mayo or horseradish aioli adds a subtle punch. Optional, but a great flavor addition!
• Barbecue Sauce or Ketchup: For some smoky-sweet flavor, I love adding a spoonful of gluten-free barbecue sauce or ketchup. It enhances the brisket’s savory notes without overwhelming it.
• Extra Toppings of Choice: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like sliced onions, lettuce, or even cheese. It’s all about building layers that suit your taste.

Full quantities can be found in the recipe card below.

⚠️ Note for those with celiac disease: Be sure to use certified gluten-free mushroom bouillon and soy sauce to avoid cross-contamination.

👩🏽‍🍳Step-By-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious beef brisket sandwich. If you’re starting with raw brisket, prepare it as described below; otherwise, jump straight to sandwich assembly!

Step 1: Slow Cook the Brisket (skip if using leftovers)

If you want two meals in one, make our easy slow-cooked beef brisket stew first and then skip to the sandwich assembly. If you want to make sandwiches then read on my friend!

• 1. Season the Brisket: Pat the whole brisket dry with paper towels. Rub it generously with salt to bring out its great flavor and lock in moisture during cooking.
• 2. Sear the Brisket: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each side of the brisket for about 2-3 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Set aside.
• 3. Sweet the Onions: Add the onions and wine to the same pan used to sear the brisket. Sautee on medium heat for 2-3 minutes until the onions are fragrant. Set aside.
• 4. Prepare the Broth: Add enough water to the slow cooker to partially cover the brisket. Dissolve the mushroom bouillon in the water, and then add the fresh thyme.
• 5. Add Ingredients: Place sauteed onions and wine, minced garlic, and smoked paprika into the slow cooker. Then, place the seared brisket fat side up to ensure it is partially submerged in the broth.
• 6. Slow Cook the Brisket: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours) or until the brisket is tender and pulls apart easily.
• 7. Shred the Brisket: Once done, remove the brisket from the broth and place it onto a cutting board. Shred the brisket into bite-sized pieces for the sandwich and set aside. Save the broth to make a flavorful gravy, or if storing for the next day, pour it over the brisket to keep it juicy and tender.

Step 4: Add Condiments

Add a layer of pickles, the brisket, the shredded cabbage, and any additional toppings for crunch and flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy your leftover brisket sandwiches with a fresh salad, like our fresh arugula spinach salad, or with a cozy cup of roasted pumpkin cauliflower soup!

🥙 Topping Pairing Ideas:

To make the perfect beef brisket sandwich, think about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some of my favorite topping pairings to make each bite delicious and satisfying:

1. Crunchy Elements: Add Pickles, pickled red onions, or crispy fried cabbage! This element will add a tang and crunch to contrast the richness of the tender brisket.
2. Greens: Think arugula or baby spinach! Both add a slight peppery bite, which pairs well with the tender, juicy brisket. A small handful of greens adds freshness without overwhelming the other flavors.
3. Sweet & Savory Sauces: Ketchup or your favorite barbecue sauce. Adding a smoky-sweet flavor will help complement the flavors of the meat. Spread sauces on both sides of the bread for an even, flavorful bite.
4. Bold & Tangy Spreads: Think mustard or horseradish aioli which gives a sharp, tangy bite that balances the richness of the brisket.
5. Additional Veggies: I like sliced tomatoes, our fresh Brazilian salsa, fresh onions, or lettuce. Something to add a touch of freshness and juiciness without overpowering flavor.
6. Seasonal Additions: For a touch of freshness, try adding fresh summer tomatoes or a fall apple slaw for a seasonal twist. These bring in bright flavors that pair beautifully with the smoky brisket.