Elaine'S Brisket
Elaine's Brisket offers tender, flavorful meat infused with sweet cranberry sauce, savory onion soup, and tangy ketchup, all slow-cooked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, its rich, comforting flavors appeal to those who enjoy hearty, well-seasoned roasts with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F. Place the brisket in a roaster pan without a lid and sear on high heat for about 15 minutes.
- Turn the brisket and sear the other side for an additional few minutes.
- Pour the entire can of cranberry sauce, dry onion soup, and ketchup over the brisket.
- Add ginger ale to cover the bottom of the pan halfway up the meat, but do not cover the pan completely.
- Cover the pan with a lid or foil and bake at 350°F for 2.5 hours, until the meat is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the brisket overnight with the cranberry sauce, onion soup mix, and ketchup. If you don't have ginger ale, you can substitute with root beer or a light soda. To enhance the dish, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the braising liquid. This dish pairs beautifully with Cool 'N Easy Pie for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the brisket sliced against the grain, accompanied by mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A side of coleslaw adds a nice crunch and contrast. For a full spread, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or even Ernie'S Goulash for a hearty twist.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the brisket and warm it gently in a preheated oven at 325°F, covered with foil to retain moisture, for about 20 minutes. You can also reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of ginger ale.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elaine'S Brisket contains roughly 236 calories, with 15g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value).
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 meat instead of brisket?
Yes, while brisket is traditional, you can use a chuck roast or even a round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the cut, and you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat becomes tender.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the brisket and the sauce a day in advance. After cooking, let the brisket cool, then slice and store it in the sauce in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently and enjoy a flavorful meal without the last-minute rush.
What can I serve with the brisket?
This brisket is delicious with classic sides like roasted potatoes or steamed green beans. Additionally, consider serving it with a tangy slaw or a hearty grain salad for a balanced meal. Pairing it with a light dessert like Cool 'N Easy Pie can also be a refreshing end to the meal.
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).