Brisket substitutes
Brisket substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Chuck roast
Same amount as the brisket
Similar tough cut of beef that becomes tender when slow-cooked with rich, savory flavor.
The best substitutes for brisket are chuck roast, short ribs, or beef shank.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- braising
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of brisket | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chuck roastbraising | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Short ribsbraising | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Beef shankbraising | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Beef cheeksbraising | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Beef oxtailbraising | Same amountWorks | Works |
Chuck roast
similar taste and texture
Similar tough cut of beef that becomes tender when slow-cooked with rich, savory flavor.
- Best for
- braising, slow-cooking, roasting, stewing
Very similar to brisket in flavor and texture.
Short ribs
similar taste and texture
Similar tough cut of beef that becomes tender when slow-cooked with rich, savory flavor.
- Best for
- braising, slow-cooking, roasting, stewing
Very similar to brisket in flavor and texture.
Beef shank
similar taste and texture
Similar tough cut of beef that becomes tender when slow-cooked with rich, savory flavor.
- Best for
- braising, slow-cooking, roasting, stewing
Very similar to brisket in flavor and texture.
Beef cheeks
similar taste and texture
Similar tough cut of beef that becomes tender when slow-cooked with rich, savory flavor.
- Best for
- braising, slow-cooking, roasting, stewing
Very similar to brisket in flavor and texture.
Beef oxtail
similar taste and texture
Similar tough cut of beef that becomes tender when slow-cooked with rich, savory flavor.
- Best for
- braising, slow-cooking, roasting, stewing
Very similar to brisket in flavor and texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use chuck roast instead of brisket?
Yes, chuck roast is an excellent substitute for brisket. It has a very similar tough texture that becomes tender when slow-cooked, making it good for the same applications.
What's the difference between brisket and short ribs?
Brisket is a tough cut of beef that becomes tender when slow-cooked with a rich, savory flavor, while short ribs are a similar tough cut of beef with a similar rich, savory flavor. Both work well in similar applications but have different cultural origins.
Can I make brisket at home?
Yes, you can make brisket at home by properly preparing and slow-cooking the meat. However, this process requires careful attention to cooking times and can be time-consuming.
How long does brisket last?
Brisket can last for 3-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. However, it's best to use it within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Tips for substituting brisket
7 tips- Brisket is best when used in braising and slow-cooking for its tender texture
- Store brisket in the refrigerator and use within 3-5 days
- Brisket pairs well with herbs, garlic, and wine
- For braising, brisket adds depth and richness to dishes
- Brisket can be used in both sweet and savory applications
- Add brisket gradually to avoid overpowering other flavors
- Brisket works well in marinades, dressings, and sauces