Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Smoky, rich, and utterly indulgent, Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes elevate your BBQ game to new heights. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or game day, this recipe combines tender brisket with creamy potatoes, ensuring every bite is a burst of flavor. With its unique blend of ingredients and techniques, you’ll impress family and friends alike while enjoying the satisfaction of homemade comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky brisket, creamy cheese, and spicy jalapeños creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a side or main dish; perfect for BBQs, family meals, or parties.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare components in advance to save time on busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves loaded potatoes! This dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Comfort Food Redefined: Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of twice-baked potatoes with a BBQ twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make everything easier. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking and ensure optimal results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Smoker or oven
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Foil wrap
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Smoker or oven: Essential for achieving that deep smokiness in your brisket and baking your potatoes perfectly.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees precise cooking temperatures for perfectly tender brisket.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all filling ingredients smoothly without mess.

Ingredients

For the Brisket

• 1 whole brisket (12-15 pounds), trimmed
• Yellow mustard (as needed for binder)
• Thundering Longhorn seasoning (or your favorite beef rub)
• Beef tallow for wrapping and potato coating

For the Potatoes

• 6 large russet potatoes, washed and dried
• 2/3 stick (about 5 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 tablespoons hot sauce (like Franks or Tabasco)
• 1 cup fresh scallions, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
• 1 1/2 packages (about 6 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
• Potato Slayer seasoning or your favorite potato seasoning
• Kosher salt for potato skins

For Topping

• Crispy fried onion chips (store-bought)
• Chopped brisket (from the point section)
• Fresh jalapeños, diced for garnish

For the BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup pineapple preserves
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

How to Make Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

Start by trimming your brisket if needed. Apply a thin coating of yellow mustard all over as a binder – this helps the seasoning stick without leaving any mustard flavor. Generously sprinkle Thundering Longhorn seasoning (or your favorite beef rub) over the entire surface, patting it gently to adhere.

Step 2: Smoke the Brisket

Fire up your smoker to 215°F. Place a water pan inside for moisture. Position the brisket on a wire rack above it. Close the lid and let it smoke overnight – this slow cooking allows fat to render and meat to become tender.

Step 3: Wrap the Brisket

In the morning, check your brisket. Once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (usually takes 8–10 hours), it’s time to wrap. Lay out butcher paper and spread some beef tallow on it. Place the brisket on top and add more tallow before wrapping tightly. Return it to the smoker at an increased temperature of 250°F.

Step 4: Continue Smoking

Continue smoking until tender in the thickest part (the point). It should feel like pushing a knife through warm butter—this happens around 200–205°F internal temperature. Remove from smoker while still wrapped; place in an aluminum pan inside a cooler without ice for resting.

Step 5: Prep the Potatoes

Once rested for about an hour, prep your potatoes by poking several holes in each one with a fork to prevent them from exploding during cooking. Rub each potato generously with beef tallow and sprinkle with kosher salt. Wrap each potato in foil before placing them in your smoker or oven preheated to 375°F.

Step 6: Bake Potatoes

Bake until tender when pierced with a fork or probe thermometer—about 45–60 minutes based on size. Remove from heat; let rest for about 20 minutes before handling as they’ll be very hot.

Step 7: Mix Filling Ingredients

Once cool enough to handle, cut each potato open lengthwise and scoop out insides into a large bowl—leave about 1/4 inch attached to maintain structure. Add softened butter, sour cream, three-fourths of shredded cheese, scallions, hot sauce, and seasonings into this bowl; mix until combined but fluffy.

Step 8: Stuff Potatoes

Spoon filling back into potato skins mounding slightly. Top with remaining cheese before returning them to smoker or oven set at375°F for another15–20 minutes until melted cheese is golden.

Step 9: Make BBQ Sauce

While potatoes bake, prepare BBQ sauce by combining all listed ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk for about6–8 minutes until slightly thickened; remove from heat and cool slightly.

Step 10: Slice & Chop Brisket

Unwrap rested brisket; slice flat portions for other uses while finely chopping point section into small pieces suited for topping potatoes—this part has more fat making it juicier.

Step 11: Assemble & Serve

Remove twice-baked potatoes from heat; top each with crispy fried onion chips followed by chopped brisket point pieces. Drizzle homemade BBQ sauce over everything before garnishing with diced jalapeños—serve immediately while hot!

How to Serve Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes are a delicious and hearty dish that can be served in various ways. They make for a perfect centerpiece at any gathering or BBQ, and pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a healthy balance.
• Pair with coleslaw to add a crunchy texture and tangy flavor.

BBQ Feast

• Offer additional BBQ sauces on the side for those who enjoy extra flavor.
• Include pickles and jalapeños as toppings for those who like a spicy kick.

Game Day Spread

• Present with chips and salsa for easy snacking between bites of the potatoes.
• Complement with a selection of cold drinks for a refreshing touch.

Potluck Delight

• Cut the potatoes into smaller portions for easy sharing among guests.
• Provide toothpicks for grab-and-go servings, making it convenient for mingling.

How to Perfect Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

To ensure your Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality brisket: Start with well-marbled brisket for juicy and flavorful meat.
• Don’t rush the smoking process: Allow ample time for smoking; low and slow is key to tenderness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh scallions, jalapeños, and herbs enhance flavor and add vibrant color.
• Monitor potato doneness: Check potatoes regularly while baking to avoid overcooking; they should be tender but not mushy.
• Avoid overmixing the filling: Mix until just combined to keep the potato texture fluffy rather than gluey.
• Garnish generously: Add plenty of crispy onions and fresh jalapeños on top right before serving for extra crunch and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

When serving Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes, complement them with these delicious side dishes that will enhance your meal.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter makes a fantastic summer-side dish.
2. Baked Beans – A classic BBQ side that adds sweetness and depth to your meal.
3. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac adds comfort and pairs wonderfully with the brisket flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring color and nutrients to your plate.
5. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, cheesy croutons, and tangy dressing provide freshness alongside rich potatoes.
6. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw contrasts nicely with the heaviness of loaded potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the mustard binder: Not applying mustard can lead to uneven seasoning. Always use a thin layer of yellow mustard before adding your rub for better adherence.

• Overcooking the brisket: Cooking the brisket too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 200-205°F for optimal tenderness.

• Not resting the brisket: Cutting into the brisket too soon will cause juices to escape. Always let it rest wrapped in a cooler for at least 2-3 hours after cooking.

• Under-seasoning the potatoes: Failing to season the potato skins can result in bland flavors. Rub them generously with beef tallow and kosher salt for extra taste.

• Overmixing the filling: Mixing too much can make the filling gluey. Combine ingredients until just mixed for a fluffy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

• Place fully cooled potatoes in freezer-safe containers or wrap them tightly in foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking periodically.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover brisket for these twice-baked potatoes?

Yes, leftover brisket is perfect for this recipe! It adds great flavor and saves time.

What type of cheese works best with Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes?

Shredded cheddar cheese is recommended, but you can also mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.

How do I prevent my potatoes from exploding while baking?

Poke several holes in each potato with a fork before baking. This allows steam to escape during cooking.

Can I customize my toppings on these twice-baked potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like bacon bits, sour cream, or different types of hot sauce.

What can I serve with Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes?

These potatoes make a great side dish alongside grilled meats, salads, or even as a standalone meal!

Final Thoughts

Brisket Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a fantastic side dish or main course that will impress guests at any BBQ gathering. Feel free to customize with additional toppings or spices to suit your taste! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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