Traditional Oven-Baked Beef Brisket delivers rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this recipe lets the oven do the hard work while you savor the anticipation.
Let's break down the key players in this flavor-packed dish. The star of the show is, of course, the beef brisket. It's a tough cut that transforms into something magical with slow cooking. Olive oil helps the seasoning adhere and also adds a subtle richness. Kosher salt and black pepper are our basic seasoning partners in crime, enhancing the natural flavors. Garlic powder and onion powder bring depth, while smoked paprika adds a hint of smoky warmth. Moving on, beef broth keeps everything moist and infuses extra savory goodness. Finally, onions and garlic contribute sweetness and aromatic depth to the dish.
This brisket pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Add a fresh green salad for a pop of color and balance. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve with a side of tangy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Trust me, you'll want to position the rack in the lower third of the oven for even cooking. Grab your brisket and give it a nice rubdown with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. You want it well-coated, but don't stress too much about perfection here.
Next, heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's hot, sear the brisket on both sides until you get that beautiful brown crust, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step adds flavor and locks in juices. Set the brisket aside for a moment.
In the same skillet, toss in your sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions turn translucent. This usually takes a few minutes, and it's a good time to scrape up those tasty brown bits on the skillet. Those bits are flavor gold! Pour in the beef broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and mix everything up nicely.
Place the brisket back into the skillet, nestling it among the onions. Cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil to keep all that moisture in, and slide it into your preheated oven. Now, it’s time to let the magic happen. Cook for 3-4 hours; you'll know it's done when the brisket is fork-tender.
Once cooked, take it out and let the brisket rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period is crucial for juicy slices. When ready, slice against the grain for the best texture.