Savory Oven-Braised Beef Brisket
Indulge in this mouthwatering Savory Oven-Braised Beef Brisket recipe that is perfect for gatherings and family dinners. The combination of onion soup mix, ketchup, and garlic powder creates a rich and flavorful glaze that melts into the brisket, making it tender and juicy. This classic dish is easy to prepare and bakes for hours to achieve that homestyle comfort everyone loves. Serve it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw and watch it become a family favorite!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Onion soup mix
1 envelope (8 ounces) (Dry mix)
Water
3/4 cup (Room temperature)
Ketchup
1/2 cup (None)
Garlic powder
1 teaspoon (None)
Ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Boneless beef brisket
3 lbs (Trimmed)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2
In a large 13x9-inch baking or roasting pan, combine the onion soup mix with water, ketchup, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir well to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
3
Add the trimmed boneless beef brisket to the pan, ensuring to coat it evenly with the sauce mixture.
4
Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to trap moisture and flavor inside.
5
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 3 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender, checking occasionally to ensure that it is baking evenly.
6
Once the brisket is tender, remove the foil. If you like a thicker gravy, transfer the sauce to a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer until it thickens to your liking.
7
Slice the brisket against the grain, serve with the thickened gravy, and enjoy this hearty dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Oven-Braised Beef Brisket?
It is a tender, slow-cooked beef dish made by braising a boneless brisket in a savory sauce composed of onion soup mix, ketchup, and spices in the oven.
How many servings does this brisket recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
What size beef brisket should I use?
The recipe calls for a 3-pound boneless beef brisket that has been trimmed.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius).
What ingredients are in the brisket sauce?
The sauce is made from onion soup mix, water, ketchup, garlic powder, and ground black pepper.
How long does the brisket need to cook?
The brisket should bake for approximately 3 hours or until it becomes fork-tender.
Do I need to cover the pan while baking?
Yes, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to trap moisture and flavor during the braising process.
What type of baking pan is recommended?
A large 13x9-inch baking or roasting pan is ideal for this recipe.
How do I know when the brisket is done?
The brisket is done when it is fork-tender, meaning a fork can easily pierce and twist the meat.
Should I slice the brisket in a specific way?
Yes, always slice the brisket against the grain to ensure the most tender texture.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
Transfer the sauce to a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer until it reaches your desired thickness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, brisket often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.
What sides pair well with this brisket?
Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad are excellent accompaniments.
Does the brisket need to be browned before baking?
No, this specific recipe does not require browning; the meat cooks directly in the sauce mixture.
What is the role of onion soup mix in this recipe?
It provides a concentrated savory onion flavor and acts as a base for the seasoning.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can substitute fresh minced garlic, though garlic powder is used here for even distribution in the sauce.
Is there a substitute for ketchup?
You could use tomato sauce with a touch of vinegar and sugar, though ketchup provides the intended tang and sweetness.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can this brisket be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked brisket in its sauce for up to 3 months for best quality.
What is 'braising'?
Braising is a combination cooking method that uses both wet and dry heats; the meat is typically cooked in a small amount of liquid in a covered pot.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is a very simple, hands-off recipe that relies on slow cooking for great results.
Should the water be hot or cold when mixing?
Room temperature water is sufficient as it will heat up in the oven.
Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Yes, you can add carrots, potatoes, or onions to the pan during the last hour of cooking.
Why is my brisket tough?
If it is tough, it likely needs more time to cook or was sliced with the grain rather than against it.
Can I use a larger brisket?
Yes, but you will need to increase the sauce ingredients and potentially the cooking time.
Do I need to add salt?
The onion soup mix and ketchup already contain sodium, so additional salt is usually not necessary.
What does 'against the grain' mean?
It means cutting perpendicular to the direction the muscle fibers run, which breaks them up and makes the meat easier to chew.
Can I use beef broth instead of water?
Yes, using beef broth will add even more depth of flavor to the sauce.
What if I don't have a 13x9-inch pan?
Any oven-safe heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid, like a Dutch oven, will work perfectly.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is savory and slightly sweet from the ketchup, with only a mild hint of pepper.