Craving the mouthwatering goodness of Applebee’s Beef Brisket Tacos at home?
Me too!
This recipe combines savory BBQ beef brisket with refreshing toppings to create a delightful taco experience.
Trust me, you won’t believe how tender the meat gets when slow-cooked with the right spices.
Slice some onions and mix them in buttermilk for a tangy, crispy topping that elevates the crunch factor.
I love this recipe because it’s perfect for get-togethers, and your guests can personalize their tacos with their favorite fixings.
How to Make Applebee’s Beef Brisket Tacos
Ingredients
- 1 Beef Brisket (4-5 lbs.)
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 2 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 2 cups Water
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce
- 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 can Chipotles in Adobo (7 oz.)
- 12 Small Tortillas
- Fresh Veggies (like lettuce, tomatoes, onions)
- Shredded Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F.
Combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to create a dry rub.
Step 2:
Rub the dry mixture evenly on all sides of the beef brisket.
Place the brisket on the grill or smoker.
Step 3:
Cook the brisket for approximately 6-8 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F – 205°F.
While brisket is cooking, prepare the slaw and toppings.
Step 4:
Remove brisket from heat and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
Shred or chop the brisket into bite-sized pieces.
Step 5:
Warm the tortillas on a skillet or directly on the grill for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side.
Assemble the tacos by adding the shredded brisket, fresh veggies, and shredded cheese to the tortillas.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Control Your Spice:
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your liking if you prefer a milder or spicier kick.
Keep Tortillas Soft:
Wrap cooked tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and soft until serving.
Rest the Brisket:
Allowing the brisket to rest before shredding helps to lock in the juices for a more flavorful taco.
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Opt for fresh veggies and herbs to enhance the taste and texture of your tacos.
Sauce on the Side:
Serve extra BBQ sauce on the side for those who love a little extra flavor.
What to Serve with Applebee’s Beef Brisket Tacos
Classic Mexican Rice
A side of Mexican rice pairs perfectly with brisket tacos!
It’s flavorful, fluffy, and adds a delightful texture to your meal.
You can make it yourself or grab some from your favorite restaurant.
Refried Beans
Refried beans are another traditional option that complements the rich, smoky flavor of brisket.
They are creamy, slightly salty, and serve as a perfect companion to the tacos.
Grilled Vegetables
For a fresh and healthy side, go with grilled vegetables.
Bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions work wonderfully!
The slight char from grilling adds a unique touch to your plate.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote is a fantastic addition to this meal.
Grilled corn slathered in mayonnaise, chili powder, cheese, and lime juice is irresistible.
Avocado Salad
An avocado salad can provide a refreshing balance to the hearty brisket.
Mix avocado slices with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a splash of lime juice.
It’s light, tangy, and complements the brisket tacos beautifully.
Variations and Substitutions
Meat Alternatives
You can easily swap out beef brisket with chicken or pork for a different flavor and texture!
If you’re a fan of pulled pork, it works great especially with BBQ sauce.
Chicken thighs bring a tender, juicy option for those looking to switch things up.
Spice Rub Tweaks
Don’t be afraid to play with the spice rub!
Try adding cumin or chili powder for a smoky flavor.
If you love heat, go heavier on the cayenne pepper.
Alternatively, a bit of cinnamon adds a surprising sweetness.
Toppings
Toppings are where you can get really creative.
Swap out the traditional cheese with a spicy pepper jack or a creamy queso fresco.
Add a fresh twist with avocado slices or your favorite salsa.
Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a smoker, no worries!
Slow cook your brisket in a crock pot for tender results.
Using a pressure cooker can speed things up while still keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
Dietary Changes
For a lighter version, use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
If you’re cutting down on dairy, skip the cheese and add more fresh veggies.
There are plenty of BBQ sauces that cater to gluten-free and vegan diets.
How to Store Leftover Applebee’s Beef Brisket Tacos
Cool Down First
Make sure the leftover brisket is completely cooled before storing.
This helps prevent condensation, keeping the meat from becoming soggy.
Airtight Containers
Place the cooled brisket into airtight containers to preserve its flavor and moisture.
I recommend using glass containers with tight lids, as they retain freshness longer.
Label and Date
Label each container with the date, so you know when you stored it.
Brisket can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Leftover Brisket
For longer storage, brisket can be frozen.
Wrap the brisket tightly in aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
Don’t forget to label it with the date.
You can freeze it for up to 3 months and still enjoy great flavor when reheated!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Temperature Too High
It’s essential to cook your brisket at the right temperature to avoid tough, chewy meat.
Always aim for a low and slow cooking approach, ideally around 225°F, to break down the connective tissue.
Avoid cranking up the heat to speed up the process.
Overlooking the Marinade or Rub
Don’t skimp on seasoning your brisket well before grilling or smoking.
Make sure to apply a generous amount of your seasoning blend evenly across the brisket.
Failing to do so will impact the depth of flavor in your tacos.
Not Resting the Brisket
It’s tempting to dive right in after cooking, but patience is key.
Always let your brisket rest for at least 30 minutes before shredding.
Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful brisket.

Applebee's Beef Brisket Tacos Recipe
- 1 Beef Brisket 4-5 lbs.
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 2 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 2 cups Water
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce
- 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 can Chipotles in Adobo 7 oz.
- 12 Small Tortillas
- Fresh Veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, onions
- Shredded Cheese
- Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F.
- Combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to create a dry rub.
- Rub the dry mixture evenly on all sides of the beef brisket.
- Place the brisket on the grill or smoker.
- Cook the brisket for approximately 6-8 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F - 205°F.
- While brisket is cooking, prepare the slaw and toppings.
- Remove brisket from heat and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Shred or chop the brisket into bite-sized pieces.
- Warm the tortillas on a skillet or directly on the grill for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side.
- Assemble the tacos by adding the shredded brisket, fresh veggies, and shredded cheese to the tortillas.
- Pioneer Woman Creamed Chipped Beef Recipe - February 14, 2025
- Fleming’s Blueberry Lemon Drop Recipe - February 14, 2025
- Fleming’s Scalloped Potatoes Recipe - February 14, 2025