Perfect Baked Brisket Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide for Tender Results

Perfect Baked Brisket Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide for Tender Results

Ingredients

For a tender, flavorful baked brisket, you'll need:

  • 1 (4-5 lb) beef brisket, flat cut
  • 1 tbsp coarse salt
  • 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Spice Measurements

SpiceAmount
Coarse Salt1 tbsp
Black Pepper1 tbsp
Garlic Powder1 tsp
Onion Powder1 tsp
Smoked Paprika1 tsp
Cumin1 tsp
Cayenne Pepper1/2 tsp (optional)
Spice Mixture for Baked Brisket

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
  2. Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil to help spices adhere.
  3. Mix all spices in a bowl. Apply evenly to all sides of the brisket, pressing gently.
  4. Place brisket fat-side up in a roasting pan. Pour beef broth into the pan.
  5. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 3-4 hours until internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
  6. Remove from oven, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Perfectly Baked Brisket

Cooking Tips

  • Choose the right cut: Flat cut is leaner and easier to slice; point cut has more marbling for richer flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer: Insert into thickest part to ensure accurate temperature reading.
  • Resting is crucial: Letting the brisket rest redistributes juices for maximum tenderness.
  • Don't skip the broth: Keeps the meat moist during slow cooking.
Essential Cooking Tools for Brisket

Serving Suggestions

  • Sandwiches: Thinly slice and serve on toasted brioche buns with pickles and mustard.
  • With sides: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or grilled asparagus.
  • Leftovers: Shred for tacos, or use in hash with eggs and potatoes.

With precise measurements and careful cooking, this baked brisket recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home. The key is patience—low and slow cooking transforms tough meat into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Sophie Dubois

Sophie Dubois

A French-trained chef who specializes in the art of spice blending for European cuisines. Sophie challenges the misconception that European cooking lacks spice complexity through her exploration of historical spice traditions from medieval to modern times. Her research into ancient European herbals and cookbooks has uncovered forgotten spice combinations that she's reintroduced to contemporary cooking. Sophie excels at teaching the technical aspects of spice extraction - how to properly infuse oils, create aromatic stocks, and build layered flavor profiles. Her background in perfumery gives her a unique perspective on creating balanced spice blends that appeal to all senses. Sophie regularly leads sensory training workshops helping people develop their palate for distinguishing subtle spice notes and understanding how different preparation methods affect flavor development.