Easy Brisket (Cranberry)
A tender, flavorful brisket baked with tangy cranberry sauce and savory onion soup mix, perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine all ingredients and pour over brisket, using enough water to cover.
- Cover and bake for 2 1/2 hours.
- Slice the cooked brisket while warm and return the pieces to the juices in the pan to absorb flavor.
- Cook longer if the meat is not done completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sliced onions or garlic to the mixture before baking. If you don't have dry onion soup mix, you can substitute with a combination of onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Ensure the brisket is well-covered with liquid to keep it moist; you can add more water or broth as needed during cooking. For variations, try using cranberry relish instead of jellied cranberry sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the brisket and serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs wonderfully with cranberry sauce or a tangy salad. For a complete feast, consider serving alongside dishes like Broccoli And Ground Beef Casserole or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the brisket.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the brisket slices in a baking dish with some of the cooking juices, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through. This method helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Brisket (Cranberry) contains roughly 1004 calories, with 28g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while brisket is ideal for this recipe due to its flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with other cuts like chuck roast or round roast. Just be aware that cooking times may vary based on the cut and thickness.
How do I know when the brisket is done?
The brisket is done when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 190°F to 200°F for optimal tenderness. You can check this with a meat thermometer. If it's not tender when sliced, continue cooking and check periodically until it reaches the desired texture.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, combine the ingredients as directed and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. This method will yield tender, flavorful brisket that easily pulls apart.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).