This oven-baked brisket is juicy and full of flavor, making it a perfect meal for any day! Just season it, pop it in the oven, and let it cook low and slow.
Honestly, the smell of brisket cooking is the real winner here! It makes the house feel cozy and warm. I love serving it with some soft bread and a side of veggies—so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: The star of the show! Look for a well-marbled brisket to ensure it stays juicy during cooking. If brisket isn’t available, you can use a chuck roast for a similar flavor and texture.
Kosher Salt: This salt is perfect for seasoning because it’s coarse and makes it easy to sprinkle evenly. If you don’t have kosher salt, sea salt or table salt can work—just use less because it’s finer.
Smoked Paprika: This gives your brisket a wonderful smoky flavor. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but you can also try adding a dash of liquid smoke to mimic that flavor.
Beef Broth or Water: Using beef broth enhances the savoriness of the dish. If you want a lighter option, you can use vegetable broth instead, or even water if that’s all you have on hand.
Olive Oil: This is optional for searing. It adds flavor and helps achieve a nice crust. For a different twist, try using avocado oil or melted butter.
How Do I Ensure My Brisket Is Tender?
Cooking brisket properly is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Follow these simple methods:
- Use low temperature: Baking at 300°F is great for a long, slow cook, which breaks down tough fibers.
- Cover tightly: Wrapping the pan in foil locks in moisture, preventing the meat from drying out.
- Let it rest: Resting the brisket after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice juicy and tender.
How to Make Simple Oven Baked Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 lbs beef brisket
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 3 to 4 hours of cooking time in the oven. So, set aside about 4 hours total. You’ll enjoy a beautifully cooked brisket that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow method will help make your brisket tender and flavorful.
2. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. This dry rub is what will give your brisket a delicious flavor!
3. Season the Brisket:
Take the brisket and rub the spice mixture all over it. Make sure to cover every side well to get that full flavor profile.
4. (Optional) Sear the Brisket:
If you’d like an extra layer of flavor, heat up olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, sear the brisket for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned. This step is optional but recommended!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place the brisket fat side up in a roasting pan or baking dish. Pour the beef broth or water around the brisket (but not directly on top) to help keep it moist while it cooks.
6. Cover and Bake:
Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. This will trap the moisture inside, making your brisket tender. Put it in the oven and let it bake for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C).
7. Rest the Brisket:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the brisket from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, making it juicy and easy to slice!
8. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the brisket against the grain to keep it tender. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for This Recipe?
Yes! While brisket is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or round roast. Just keep in mind that different cuts may vary in cooking time and moisture content, so check for tenderness and adjust cooking times as necessary.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or a mix of paprika and a pinch of liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, you can skip it altogether for a milder seasoning profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Brisket?
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen brisket in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How Can I Reheat Brisket Without Drying It Out?
To reheat brisket, place it in a baking dish with a splash of beef broth or water. Cover with foil and heat in a 325°F (163°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. This method helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
