Leftover Brisket Tacos with Pickled Onions
This page may contain affiliate links. Learn More.
Brisket is one of those meats that’s worth the long cook time. Smoky, tender, and full of flavor, it’s often the star of backyard barbecues and family gatherings. But what happens when you’ve got leftover brisket? Instead of letting that delicious meat go to waste, give it new life by turning it into Leftover Brisket Tacos with Pickled Onions. These tacos are the perfect way to enjoy bold, tangy, savory goodness in every bite.
Leftover Cooking
For 40 years I’ve been turning leftovers into new creations. Making a fresh masterpiece saves time cooking meat, saves wasted food that gets thrown out, and brings layers of flavor like nothing else. One of my favorite tricks is how to cook one pork roast and make 5 meals. And I also love to cook a whole chicken and make 3 meals. Both of these start with cheaper meat and end up with tons of flavorful meals.
Tacos are one of the most versatile meals out there. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a quick weeknight dinner, brisket tacos bring a hearty twist to the table. The richness of the brisket, paired with the bright, zingy punch of pickled red onions, creates a flavor combo that’s hard to beat. Add in a soft tortilla, some fresh toppings, and maybe a spicy crema, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and exciting in this easy dinner idea.
Why This Recipe Works
Brisket, especially smoked or slow-cooked, already has a deep flavor from its long cooking time. When repurposed in tacos, it doesn’t require much more than a quick reheat and a few strategic toppings. Pickled onions are the secret weapon here. Their acidity cuts through the richness of the meat and adds a beautiful pop of color. You can also add extras like avocado, cotija cheese, cilantro, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo to take these tacos to the next level.
More Leftover Brisket Ideas
This easy dinner idea is one of our favorites, but for more ideas with leftover brisket, check these out:
- Mexican Leftover Smoked Brisket Soup is spicy, flavorful, and easy to make.
- This Leftover Brisket Pasta with Mushrooms is bursting with smoky, rich flavors.
- Try this leftover brisket stew recipe with your leftover meat tonight. You’ll be blown away with the depth of flavor the smoked meat brings to the dish.
- Leftover Brisket Stroganoff is simple to make and comes together in minutes, but the flavor goes on for days.
- We always LOVE a pot pie, and this Leftover Brisket Pot Pie Recipe is smokey, creamy, and comforting stick to your ribs goodness. The flavor will amaze you.
- For a whole list of 15 Best Leftover Brisket Appetizers Everyone Will Love that will inspire you for your next gathering with tons of smoky meat ideas, check this post out.
Leftover Brisket Tacos with Pickled Onions Recipe
Leftover Brisket Tacos with Pickled Red Onions
Ingredients
For the pickled onions:
- 1 large red onion thinly sliced
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¾ cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the tacos:
- 2 cups leftover cooked brisket shredded or chopped
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for reheating
Optional toppings:
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Cotija cheese or shredded cheddar
- Lime wedges
- Chipotle mayo or sour cream
Instructions
- Pickled onions can be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Start by placing the thinly sliced onion in a glass jar or bowl.
- In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
- Bring to a simmer, then pour the hot mixture over the onions.
- Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate until ready to use.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil or butter.
- Add the chopped brisket and cook until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges, about 5–7 minutes.
- If your brisket was already sauced, you can add a little water or broth to loosen it up.
- You can heat the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds until warm and pliable.
- Spoon some brisket into each tortilla, top with pickled onions, avocado, a sprinkle of cheese, and any other toppings you like. Finish with a squeeze of lime and a little hot sauce if you’re feeling bold.
Nutrition
Tips & Variations:
- Sweet & Spicy: Add pineapple chunks or mango salsa for a tropical twist that balances the smoky brisket.
- Crunch Factor: Top with shredded cabbage or radishes for an extra layer of texture.
- Low Carb Option: Skip the tortillas and serve the brisket and toppings over lettuce or in a bowl.
- Make It Saucy: Stir a little BBQ sauce into the brisket while reheating for a saucier taco.
