Brisket Guides & Wisdom

Your go-to resource for mastering brisket. Explore our articles, tips, and in-depth information to elevate your BBQ game.

Featured Guides

How Much Brisket Per Person: A Detailed Guide

Never run out or have too much! Learn to accurately calculate brisket portions for any crowd size.

Brisket Cuts Explained: Flat vs. Point

Discover the differences between the flat and point cuts, and learn which is best for your BBQ goals.

The Ultimate Guide to Smoking Brisket

From prep to plate, master the art of smoking brisket with our comprehensive step-by-step guide.

Estimated Brisket Yield

Typical yield percentages after trimming and cooking.
Brisket Cut	Typical Raw Weight	Est. Cooked Weight & Yield	Notes
Whole Packer	12-20 lbs	5.16 - 8.6 lbs (approx. 43% yield)	Includes both flat and point; generally higher fat content.
Flat Only	6-10 lbs	3.12 - 5.2 lbs (approx. 52% yield)	Leaner cut; ideal for slicing.
Point Only	4-6 lbs	1.72 - 2.58 lbs (approx. 43% yield)	More fatty cut; best for pulled brisket or burnt ends.

Factors Affecting Brisket Cooking Time

Key variables influencing how long your brisket will take to cook.
Factor	Influence on Cooking Time	Tips for Adjustment
Brisket Weight	Larger briskets require longer cooking times.	Generally, allow 1-1.5 hours per pound at 225-250°F. Adjust proportionally.
Brisket Thickness	Thicker briskets take longer to reach desired internal temperature.	Ensure consistent thickness for even cooking. Be aware of the 'stall'.
Smoker Temperature	Higher temperatures = faster cooking. Low and slow (225-250°F) is preferred for tenderness.	Maintain a consistent smoker temperature for best results.
Ambient Temperature	Cold weather can significantly increase cooking time as the smoker works harder.	Insulate smoker (e.g., grill blanket) in cold weather if possible.
Wrapping (e.g., The Texas Crutch)	Wrapping (butcher paper/foil) after the stall (around 150-165°F internal) can speed up cooking.	Decide strategy based on desired bark and time. Wrapping helps push through the stall.
Brisket Grade/Fat Content	Higher fat content (e.g., Prime, Wagyu) may cook slightly faster and remain more moist.	Be aware that different grades might require slight time/temp adjustments.

Looking for something specific?