20-Min Kansas City BBQ Brisket
Thin-sliced deli brisket transformed into tangy, smoky KC-style BBQ in minutes. High-heat sear locks in the crust, then a quick glaze of ketchup, molasses, and vinegar builds that signature sticky-sweet finish.
- Total time
- 18 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 385
- Protein
- 42g

Ingredients
- 1.25 lb sliced deli brisket (or thin-cut raw brisket)
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp molasses
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- 1
Whisk ketchup, molasses, vinegar, Worcestershire, and smoked paprika in a small bowl until smooth.
- 2
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high until it shimmers and water flicks sizzle, about 90 seconds.
- 3
Add brisket in a single layer, pressing gently, and sear without stirring until edges char, about 2 minutes.
- 4
Flip and sear the other side until surface looks crusty, another 90 seconds.
- 5
Pour the glaze over the brisket, toss gently to coat, and simmer for 2 minutes until sauce thickens and clings.
- 6
Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, spooning any pan sauce over the top.
Tools you’ll need
- large skillet (12-inch cast iron or stainless)
- small mixing bowl
- whisk
- tongs
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