Brisket Cook Time Calculator
Mastering the Brisket: Time, Temperature, and Technique
Cooking a beef brisket is widely considered the "final exam" of backyard BBQ. Unlike a steak that cooks in minutes, a brisket is a tough pectoral muscle loaded with connective tissue (collagen) that requires hours of heat to transform into tender, succulent meat. Our Brisket Cook Time Calculator helps you plan your day so you aren't serving dinner at midnight.
How Long Does a Brisket Take to Cook?
The general rule of thumb for smoking a brisket at 225°F is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours per pound. However, increasing your smoker temperature to 250°F or 275°F can significantly reduce this time without sacrificing quality, provided the meat is properly hydrated and wrapped.
- 225°F: 90 – 120 minutes per pound
- 250°F: 60 – 90 minutes per pound
- 275°F: 45 – 60 minutes per pound
The Importance of "The Stall"
Around an internal temperature of 150°F to 170°F, your brisket will likely stop rising in temperature for several hours. This is known as "The Stall." It occurs because of evaporative cooling—the meat is sweating out moisture which cools it down as fast as the smoker heats it up. To overcome this, many pitmasters use the "Texas Crutch," which involves wrapping the brisket in butcher paper or aluminum foil.
Example Cook Time Estimates
| Weight (lbs) | Temp (°F) | Est. Time (Hours) | Total with 2hr Rest |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs | 225°F | 15.0 hrs | 17.0 hrs |
| 12 lbs | 250°F | 12.5 hrs | 14.5 hrs |
| 15 lbs | 275°F | 11.5 hrs | 13.5 hrs |
Don't Forget the Rest!
Resting is the most underrated step in brisket preparation. Once the meat reaches its target internal temperature (usually between 195°F and 205°F), it needs to rest for at least 1 to 2 hours. This allows the juices to redistribute through the meat. If you slice it immediately, all that precious moisture will run out onto your cutting board, leaving you with dry meat.