This oven roasted brisket is a real treat! It’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
The best part? It’s super easy to make! Just season, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing. I love to serve it with mashed potatoes or veggies—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: This cut is key for its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. If brisket isn’t available, you could substitute it with a Chuck roast, which also works well in similar recipes.
Kosher Salt: I find kosher salt gives the best flavor without being overly salty. Sea salt can be used as an alternative, just adjust quantities as it can be finer and saltier.
Paprika: For a nice smokey flavor, I love using smoked paprika. If you prefer something milder, regular paprika or even chili powder can be a good substitute.
Beef Broth: Using beef broth adds depth to the dish. If you prefer a lighter option, chicken broth or vegetable broth can work well too. In a pinch, water is fine, but you may want to enhance the flavor with extra seasoning.
How Do I Ensure My Brisket is Tender and Juicy?
Cooking brisket to perfect tenderness is all about low and slow. Here’s how to achieve that delicious melt-in-your-mouth texture:
- Start with a low oven temperature like 325°F (163°C).
- Keep the brisket covered with foil to trap steam, which keeps it moist.
- A fork-tender brisket typically means over 190°F (88°C) internal temperature, so be patient!
- Letting it rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute for better flavor.
Easy Oven Roasted Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 to 5 pounds beef brisket
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 large onion, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy oven roasted brisket takes about 15 minutes of prep time while the oven preheats, plus 3 to 4 hours of cooking time. Make sure to let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. It’s a perfect dish to prepare for a family gathering or a weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will ensure your brisket cooks evenly and becomes tender.
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. This will create a flavorful rub for your brisket!
3. Season the Brisket:
Rub the olive oil over the brisket, making sure to cover all sides. Then, take your seasoning mixture and coat the brisket evenly to infuse it with flavor.
4. Prepare the Roasting Pan:
In a roasting pan or baking dish, lay down the sliced onions. They will add flavor and moisture to the brisket while it cooks.
5. Place the Brisket:
Now, place the seasoned brisket on top of the onions, with the fat side facing up. This positioning helps baste the meat as it cooks, making it juicy!
6. Add Moisture:
Pour the beef broth or water into the pan around the brisket. This will help keep everything moist during cooking.
7. Cover and Roast:
Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. This trap’s steam inside, which is vital for perfectly tender brisket.
8. Cooking Time:
Roast the brisket in the preheated oven for about 3 to 4 hours, or until it reaches fork-tender perfection. You can check it by inserting a fork—it should go in easily!
9. Brown the Brisket:
For the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the top of the brisket to brown and crisp up nicely.
10. Rest Before Slicing:
After removing the brisket from the oven, let it rest for 15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for better flavor when you slice it.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the brisket against the grain and serve with the cooked onions and any of the pan juices. It’s delicious with mashed potatoes or your favorite sides!
FAQ for Easy Oven Roasted Brisket
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While brisket is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute it with a chuck roast or round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the thickness and fat content of the cut you choose.
How Do I Store Leftover Brisket?
Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Make sure to slice it before freezing to make it easier to reheat later!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, simply sear the brisket in a skillet first (if desired), then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or until tender.
What Should I Serve with Oven Roasted Brisket?
This brisket pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw. You can also serve it in sandwiches with pickles and mustard for a tasty twist!
