Leftover Smoked Brisket Recipes (Tacos, Chili, Sandwiches & More)
If you’ve ever cooked a full smoked brisket, you know leftovers are almost guaranteed. That’s not a bad thing. Leftover brisket is one of the most versatile BBQ ingredients you can have in the fridge.
From tacos and chili to sandwiches and nachos, there are plenty of ways to turn leftover smoked brisket into meals that feel fresh instead of reheated. Below are some of the best leftover brisket recipes and ideas for what to make with leftover smoked brisket without wasting a single bite.
Leftover Smoked Brisket Tacos
Brisket tacos are one of the easiest and most reliable ways to use leftovers. The smoke and seasoning carry over perfectly, and you can keep things simple or dress them up.
Ingredients
- Leftover smoked brisket (flat or point)
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Olive oil
Topping Ideas
- Thinly sliced jalapeños
- Pickled red onions
- Fresh tomatoes
- Cilantro (optional)
- Salsa
- Cotija or shredded Mexican-style cheese
- Fresh lime wedges
How to Make Them
Reheat the brisket in a cast-iron pan over medium heat with a small amount of olive oil until warmed through. If the brisket is sliced thick, chop or shred it so it’s easier to eat and stays juicy.
Warm the tortillas directly over a gas flame or in a dry pan until soft. Build the tacos with brisket first, then add toppings without overpowering the meat.
This works well as a shredded brisket recipe or with sliced brisket, depending on what you have left.
Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese Sandwich
If you’re wondering what to make with leftover smoked brisket, this one is hard to beat. It’s simple, filling, and doesn’t need much to work.
Ingredients
- Leftover smoked brisket
- Sourdough bread
- Smoked cheddar and Gruyère cheese
- Butter
- Dijon mustard
How to Make It
Warm the brisket slowly in a pan over medium heat. If it’s been refrigerated, add a tablespoon of BBQ sauce or broth to help bring moisture back without masking the flavor.
Butter one side of each slice of bread. Flip them over and spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the unbuttered sides. Layer cheese, brisket, and more cheese, then close the sandwich.
Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden on both sides and the cheese is melted. Slice in half and serve hot.
Shredded brisket works just as well here if you don’t have clean slices.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, check out my Leftover Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese Sandwich recipe.
Smoked Brisket Chili
Chili is one of the best leftover brisket recipes when you want something hearty and low-effort. The smoke adds depth without extra work.
Ingredients
- Leftover smoked brisket, cubed or shredded
- Black beans, kidney beans, or both
- Corn
- Onion
- Bell peppers
- Garlic
- Tomatoes
- Bacon
- Beer or beef broth
How to Make It
Cook bacon in a large pot until crispy, then remove and reserve. Sauté onions in the rendered fat until soft. Add garlic and bell peppers and cook briefly.
Add brisket and dry seasonings, stirring for about a minute. Deglaze with beer or broth, then add tomatoes, beans, corn, and reserved bacon.
Simmer covered for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for deeper flavor. If it gets too thick, add water or broth a little at a time.
Serve with sour cream, shredded cheese, and chives.
Smoked Brisket Nachos
Brisket nachos are a great way to stretch leftovers, especially if you already made brisket chili.
How to Build Them
Start with a layer of corn tortilla chips on a sheet pan or cast-iron skillet. Spoon brisket chili over the chips and add shredded cheese. Repeat with another layer.
Heat on the grill or in the oven until the cheese melts. Finish with jalapeños, diced onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Why Leftover Brisket Works So Well
Smoked brisket holds up better than most meats after cooking. When stored properly, it reheats well and absorbs sauces, broth, and seasonings without falling apart. That makes it ideal for tacos, chili, sandwiches, and more.
Whether you started with a slow smoked brisket recipe or cooked a large packer for a crowd, leftovers don’t have to feel repetitive.
Final Thoughts
Leftover smoked brisket doesn’t need to be boring. With a little planning, it can turn into several meals that feel just as satisfying as the first cook.
From tacos and grilled cheese to chili and nachos, these leftover brisket recipes help you get the most out of your time and effort — and keep good BBQ from going to waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent brisket from drying out during storage and reheating?
Store brisket tightly wrapped or vacuum-sealed to limit air exposure. Reheat slowly with a little added moisture like broth or sauce.
Is it better to slice brisket before storing it?
No. Store it whole when possible to retain moisture, then slice or shred when reheating.
Can brisket chili or sandwiches be stored in the fridge or freezer?
Yes. Cool completely, store in airtight containers, and thaw overnight before reheating.
What if reheated brisket still feels dry?
Chop or shred it and use it in dishes with sauce or broth so it can absorb moisture.
