As I stood in the kitchen, the comforting aroma of garlic and herbs wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to the heart of the holidays. The Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket emerged from countless family feasts, a dish that combines tradition with an oh-so-easy preparation. This one-pan wonder is the epitome of holiday comfort food, marry tender brisket with a luscious cranberry and Guinness sauce that elevates any gathering. Not only does it fill your home with delightful scents, but it also means less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones. Are you ready to impress your guests and savor every bite? Let’s dive into this festive recipe that brings warmth to your table!
Why is this brisket recipe a must-try?
Unmatched Convenience: This Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket allows you to create a festive feast in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Bold Flavors: Each bite bursts with a rich, savory-sweet sauce that tantalizes your taste buds, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Tender Perfection: The slow roasting ensures your brisket is fork-tender, making it a total crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Versatile Options: With easy swaps like using beef broth instead of Guinness or adding extra veggies, you can customize this dish to fit your needs.
Incredible Aroma: The delightful scents of garlic, herbs, and cranberries wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly awaiting mealtime!
For more delicious beef ideas, check out this Black Pepper Beef or try the heartwarming Nigerian Beef Stew to impress your guests.
Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Ingredients
• For your festive cooking adventure, here’s everything you need!
For the Brisket
- Brisket (3 ½ lbs, flat cut) – The star of the show, providing a rich flavor and tender texture when cooked right.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Adds richness and helps blend the spices; can be swapped with vegetable oil if necessary.
- Salt (1 tsp) – A must for enhancing the overall flavor.
- Black Pepper (1 tsp) – Infuses a delightful spice that balances the dish.
For the Seasoning
- Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – Imparts earthy undertones; feel free to use fresh thyme for extra zest.
- Dried Rosemary (1 tsp) – Offers an aromatic note; fresh rosemary has a more robust flavor.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds depth; fresh minced garlic can be used instead for more intensity.
- Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Elevates the flavor profile further.
For the Aromatic Base
- Yellow Onion (1) – Creates a fragrant base for your savory sauce.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced) – Brings a robust flavor that complements the brisket beautifully.
- Shallot (1, diced) – Adds a gentle sweetness that enhances the dish.
For the Sauce
- Cranberry Jelly (14 oz) – The star ingredient that balances sweetness and tartness, essential for the festive theme.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Contributes a savory umami boost that pairs wonderfully with the meat.
- Guinness (½ cup) – Deepens flavor and tenderizes the brisket; substitute with beef broth or cola for a non-alcoholic twist.
For the Sides
- Red Potatoes (1 lb, petite) – Cook alongside the brisket, soaking up all that delightful flavor.
- Dried Cranberries (1 cup) – Provide a chewy texture and bursts of flavor that enhance the dish.
For Garnish
- Fresh Rosemary (3 sprigs) – Spruces up your presentation with an aromatic touch; it’s visually delightful too!
- Fresh Thyme (3 sprigs) – Adds a refreshing pop to your festive platter.
With these ingredients, your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket will not only shine on the dinner table but also fill your home with enchanting holiday aromas.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket
Step 1: Prepare Brisket
Remove the brisket from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Rub the meat with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with a mix of salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prep Aromatics
Dice the yellow onion and shallot, then slice the garlic cloves. In a large saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the prepared onions, shallots, and minced garlic, sautéing them for 5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant.
Step 3: Make Sauce
Stir in the cranberry jelly, Worcestershire sauce, and Guinness, mixing thoroughly. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This cooking helps to meld the flavors together, resulting in a rich sauce perfect for drenching the brisket.
Step 4: Assemble for Roasting
Preheat your oven to 250°F. In a high-sided roasting pan, pour half of the prepared sauce to create a flavorful base. Add the sautéed onion mixture evenly in the pan, then place the brisket fat side down. Pour the remaining sauce over the brisket, ensuring it is well coated.
Step 5: Add Veggies and Herbs
Scatter the red potatoes and dried cranberries around the brisket in the pan, allowing them to absorb the delicious flavors as they cook. Garnish the dish with fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs, then cover the pan with aluminum foil to retain moisture during roasting.
Step 6: Roast
Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and cook for 4 hours. The brisket is done when it is fork-tender and easily shreds apart, filling your kitchen with irresistible holiday aromas that hint at the delightful meal to come.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the brisket from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes, covered with foil to keep it warm. This resting period is crucial for ensuring juiciness. After resting, slice the brisket against the grain and serve it with the potatoes and sauce for a festive presentation of your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket.
What to Serve with Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket
Elevate your festive dining experience with delightful accompaniments that complement the rich flavors of this mouthwatering brisket.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture pairs perfectly, soaking up the savory-sweet sauce and balancing the dish.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crunchy and caramelized, their slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the brisket’s sweetness, providing a delightful flavor contrast.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp-tender and buttery, these beans add freshness to the plate, while garlic brings an aromatic touch that harmonizes with your brisket.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart and fruity topping enhances the brisket beautifully, echoing the dish’s main flavor profile while adding a vibrant color.
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Spiced Apples: Sweet, cooked apples provide a sweet warmth and are an unexpected yet welcome partner to the hearty brisket.
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Red Wine: A robust red wine enhances the festive dining experience, echoing the deep flavors of the brisket while lending a touch of elegance.
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Apple Pie: Indulgent and comforting, this classic dessert wraps up a holiday meal perfectly, accentuating the sweet notes from the brisket and offering a satisfying conclusion.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the brisket moist and flavorful, making for delightful reheating options.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brisket wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or an airtight container for up to 3 months. This preserves the tasty essence of your cranberry holiday beef brisket.
Reheating: Thaw frozen brisket in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or in a warm oven until thoroughly heated, ensuring the brisket maintains its juicy tenderness.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can season the brisket and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate. Additionally, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently before using it. When ready to cook, simply assemble the brisket with the sauce and veggies in the pan, cover, and roast as instructed. This make-ahead strategy means your dish will be just as delicious, and you can spend more time enjoying the holiday spirit with family and friends!
Tips for the Best Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket
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Perfectly Seasoned: Always rub your brisket generously with seasonings to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t be shy when seasoning!
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Sauté aromatics: Sautéing onions, shallots, and garlic enhances their sweetness and depth, adding layers of flavor to your dish. Aim for a golden color for maximum flavor.
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Low and Slow: Roasting at a low temperature for an extended time yields incredibly tender brisket. Patience is key, so resist the urge to crank up the heat!
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Resting Time: Allow the brisket to rest after roasting for at least 30 minutes. This helps retain moisture and ensures juicy slices when served.
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Slice Against the Grain: When serving, always slice against the grain for the most tender pieces. This will transform your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket into a delightful forkful!
Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket your own with these delightful tweaks!
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Swap the Beer: Use beef broth or cola for a non-alcoholic option that still adds depth without the alcohol. It’s an easy switch that keeps all the flavors intact.
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Make it Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and replace the Guinness with a gluten-free beer or broth, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive dish. It’s simple to tailor this recipe to fit dietary needs!
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Add More Veggies: Boost your dish’s nutrition by incorporating carrots or parsnips alongside the potatoes. These veggies absorb all the tasty juices, adding more layers of flavor and color to your holiday feast.
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Slow Cooker Method: For a simpler approach, cook the brisket on low in a slow cooker for 8-9 hours. This method brings out incredible tenderness and frees up your oven for other holiday dishes.
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Sweet Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of orange juice or add fresh cranberries to the sauce for a citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries perfectly. You’ll be amazed by the vibrant flavor it brings!
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Herb Infusion: Want a refreshing burst of flavor? Swap the dried herbs for fresh ones like rosemary and thyme. This will give your brisket an aromatic lift that enchants the senses.
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Heat it Up: For spice lovers, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your sauce mix. This twist elevates the overall flavor by adding a mild kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberries.
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Savoury Glaze: After roasting, drizzle some balsamic reduction over the brisket for a sweet and tangy finish that will have everyone raving. It’s a simple addition that takes the dish to the next level!
Feel inspired to try out these variations and make this dish your own! For more beef ideas that burst with flavor, check out this delightful Beef Rotini Garlic recipe, perfect for any gathering!
Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best brisket?
Absolutely! When selecting a brisket, look for a flat cut with a good amount of marbling throughout. This visible fat helps keep the meat moist and flavorful during cooking. Check for a bright red color with minimal dark spots; this indicates freshness.
What is the best way to store leftover brisket?
Very simply! Store any leftover Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy it for multiple meals. Just be sure to allow it to cool down to room temperature before sealing it up to avoid condensation.
Can I freeze the brisket?
Absolutely! To freeze your brisket, first, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight freezer container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the brisket overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my brisket is tough after cooking?
If you find your brisket is tough, don’t worry! It may need a longer cooking time or additional moisture. If it’s already cooked, adding a bit of broth or sauce while reheating can help tenderize it. If you’re preparing it again, ensure you’re roasting at a low temperature (250°F) for the full cooking time of 4 hours to achieve that tender perfection.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Certainly! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free version and using a gluten-free beer or beef broth in place of Guinness. Additionally, if you have family pets, it’s best to avoid giving them brisket due to the seasonings and fat content that can upset their stomachs. Always consult your vet regarding food suitability for pets!
Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket for Effortless Festive Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the brisket from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Rub the meat with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with a mix of salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
- Dice the yellow onion and shallot, then slice the garlic cloves. In a large saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the prepared onions, shallots, and minced garlic, sautéing them for 5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant.
- Stir in the cranberry jelly, Worcestershire sauce, and Guinness, mixing thoroughly. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This cooking helps to meld the flavors together, resulting in a rich sauce perfect for drenching the brisket.
- Preheat your oven to 250°F. In a high-sided roasting pan, pour half of the prepared sauce to create a flavorful base. Add the sautéed onion mixture evenly in the pan, then place the brisket fat side down. Pour the remaining sauce over the brisket, ensuring it is well coated.
- Scatter the red potatoes and dried cranberries around the brisket in the pan, allowing them to absorb the delicious flavors as they cook. Garnish the dish with fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs, then cover the pan with aluminum foil to retain moisture during roasting.
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and cook for 4 hours. The brisket is done when it is fork-tender and easily shreds apart, filling your kitchen with irresistible holiday aromas that hint at the delightful meal to come.
- Once cooked, remove the brisket from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes, covered with foil to keep it warm. This resting period is crucial for ensuring juiciness. After resting, slice the brisket against the grain and serve it with the potatoes and sauce for a festive presentation of your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket.