The aroma wafting through my kitchen was a cozy reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s when I realized my festive feast was missing a star: the Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket. This one-pan delight bursts with rich flavors, featuring fork-tender brisket simmered in a luscious cranberry and Guinness sauce. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it will also fill your home with welcoming scents that invite friends and family to gather around the table. Perfect for those chilly winter evenings or festive holiday celebrations, this dish combines a classic roast with a fun twist, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. As you explore this recipe, I can’t help but wonder—what personal touches will you add to make it your own?
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just one roasting pan needed, cleanup is a breeze—perfect for busy holiday cooking.
Festive Flavors: The blend of cranberry and Guinness offers a unique twist, elevating your dinner to a memorable feast.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or alternative cuts of beef, like chuck, for a deliciously customized dish.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This beautiful centerpiece will wow your guests while ensuring everyone feels warm and satisfied.
Easy Leftovers: Leftover brisket can be repurposed into sandwiches or salads, giving you delightful meals for days—just like our Style Ground Beef can!
Get ready to impress with this cozy, mouthwatering dish!
Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Ingredients
For the Brisket
• Brisket (3½ Pounds, flat cut) – This is the star of the show, staying juicy and tender when cooked properly.
• Olive Oil (1 Tablespoon) – Helps the seasoning stick and adds a delightful richness.
• Salt (1 Teaspoon) – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to taste for your cranberry holiday beef brisket.
• Black Pepper (1 Teaspoon) – Adds a kick of warmth and depth to the dish.
• Dried Thyme (1 Teaspoon)
• Dried Rosemary (1 Teaspoon) – These herbs layer in flavors that resonate with the holidays; fresh herbs can also be used.
For the Aromatics
• Yellow Onion (1) – Provides a rich aromatic base; half should be diced, and half sliced for the sauce.
• Garlic (5 Cloves, minced) – Introduces an aromatic depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Shallot (1, diced) – Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to your sauce.
For the Sauce
• Cranberry Jelly (14 Ounces) – The sweet and tart element that harmonizes with the beef; consider real cranberries for a fresh twist.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 Tablespoon) – Infuses umami richness to the dish.
• Guinness (½ Cup) – Deepens the flavors and aids in tenderizing the meat; beef broth or cola can be substituted if needed.
For the Accompaniments
• Red Potatoes (1 Pound, petite) – They soak up all the flavors from the brisket while roasting, making them a perfect side.
• Dried Cranberries (1 Cup) – Adds chewy texture and festive flair to your beautiful holiday presentation.
• Fresh Rosemary (3 Sprigs)
• Fresh Thyme (3 Sprigs) – These herbs make lovely garnishes, adding a fresh touch to your dish.
Now you’re all set to make the sensational Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket that will have your guests savoring every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket
Step 1: Prep the Brisket
Begin by taking your 3½-pound brisket out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. This step ensures even cooking. Rub the brisket generously with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season all sides with the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, making sure the spices adhere well for the best flavors in your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket.
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatics
While your brisket rests, chop half of the yellow onion into a fine dice and thinly slice the other half. Mince the 5 cloves of garlic and dice the shallot. These aromatics will form the flavorful base of your sauce, so ensure they are evenly chopped for even cooking. Set them aside, ready for the next step in your delicious one-pan meal.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, sauté the diced onion, shallot, and minced garlic over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and translucent. Next, stir in the 14 ounces of cranberry jelly, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and ½ cup of Guinness. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 10 minutes on low heat, letting the flavors meld beautifully for your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket.
Step 4: Prepare the Roasting Pan
Preheat your oven to a gentle 250°F (120°C). Pour half of the warm sauce into a large roasting pan and spread it evenly at the bottom. Place the sliced onion along the pan’s surface for extra flavor underneath the brisket. The moisture will create a flavorful environment as everything cooks together, ensuring a sumptuous outcome.
Step 5: Arrange the Ingredients
Carefully place the seasoned brisket in the roasting pan, fat side down, ensuring it sits securely in the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the brisket, making sure it’s well-covered. Layer the petite red potatoes around the brisket, and sprinkle the 1 cup of dried cranberries and fresh herb sprigs on top. Cover the pan tightly with foil to lock in moisture during roasting.
Step 6: Roast the Brisket
Slide the roasting pan into your preheated oven and let the brisket roast for 4 hours, undisturbed. This low and slow cooking method will transform the meat into fork-tender perfection. Keep an eye on it periodically; the brisket should be deeply browned and the sauce should bubble invitingly.
Step 7: Serve the Brisket
Once roasting is complete, remove the brisket from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender slices. Serve your beautiful Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket with the roasted potatoes and the savory sauce, garnished with fresh rosemary and thyme for a festive touch that radiates warmth and hospitality.
What to Serve with Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket?
Create a cozy holiday feast that’s sure to warm hearts and fill bellies with these delightful pairings.
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Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes: These creamy, flavorful potatoes soak up the gravy, adding rich, buttery goodness to your meal. Their velvety texture complements the tender brisket beautifully.
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Green Bean Casserole: With its mix of textures from crispy onion topping and a creamy sauce, this classic dish adds a fresh, vibrant element to your plate, balancing the richness of the brisket.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet carrots and earthy parsnips filled with caramelized flavors provide a warm, seasonal touch that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the beef.
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Cranberry Salad: A refreshing tart cranberry salad with mixed greens and nuts brings brightness to your meal. The crunch of nuts and the zing of vinaigrette perfectly cut through the richness of the brisket.
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Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These indulgent mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the dish’s flavors while offering a comforting and familiar taste associated with holiday dinners.
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Pumpkin Slab Pie: For a sweet finish, serve a classic pumpkin slab pie. Its spiced custard contrasts deliciously with the savory brisket, wrapping up your cozy meal with festive flavor.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm and aromatic, a spiced apple cider can enrich the dining experience, making it feel even more festive as it echoes the flavors of the meal.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket in advance is a brilliant time-saver for busy cooks! You can season the brisket and have it marinating in the spice rub up to 24 hours in advance; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to lock in flavor and moisture. Additionally, the sauce can be cooked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to roast, simply reheat the sauce, pour it over the brisket, and follow the original cooking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors and aromas while making your holiday meal planning a breeze!
Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Variations
Feel free to embrace your creativity and make this recipe your own with these delightful variations!
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Beef Cut Swap:
Experiment with different cuts, such as tri-tip or chuck, adjusting cooking times as needed for tenderness. -
Veggie Boost:
Add sliced carrots or parsnips for extra flavor and a pop of color during roasting. They will soak up all those delicious juices! -
Gluten-Free Option:
Substitute Guinness with gluten-free beer or beef broth to keep the flavors rich and enjoyable for everyone. -
Herb Infusion:
Use fresh herbs like sage or oregano instead of dried thyme and rosemary, increasing the amount for an aromatic punch. -
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce, stirring in a fun level of heat that warms the heart! -
Cranberry Twist:
Swap cranberry jelly for real cranberries with a bit of sugar, enhancing the dish’s fresh flavors and offering a rustic touch. -
Cola Glaze:
For a unique sweetness and depth, replace Guinness with cola, creating an interesting caramelized flavor profile in your brisket. -
Juicy Potatoes:
Try using sweet potatoes or Yukon Golds instead of red potatoes, adding another layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the brisket.
For even more inspiration, don’t forget to check out our Ginger Beef Stir or try the mouthwatering Beef Manhattan Cozy for a comforting meal twist!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket
Resting Time: Let the brisket rest for at least 30 minutes after cooking; this helps retain the juices for a moist finish.
Slice Against the Grain: Always cut your brisket against the grain for tender, easy-to-eat pieces, enhancing your dining experience.
Potato Placement: Ensure red potatoes are partially submerged in the sauce during roasting; this will help them absorb delicious flavors as they cook.
Use Dried Cranberries: Incorporating dried cranberries prevents the dish from becoming overly sweet, adding both texture and festive flair to your cranberry holiday beef brisket.
Pan Choice: Opt for a roasting pan with high sides to keep all the delicious juices contained, creating a flavorful sauce while cooking.
Storage Tips for Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap the brisket tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months without sacrificing taste.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, then gently warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through, ensuring your Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket stays tender and delicious.
Sauce Storage: Keep any leftover sauce in a separate container; it can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for later use, adding vibrant flavor to future meals.
Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket Recipe FAQs
What type of brisket should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! A flat cut brisket, about 3½ pounds, is ideal for this recipe as it remains juicy and tender. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can try cuts like chuck or tri-tip, just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the cut.
How should I store leftovers from the Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap the brisket tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I freeze the Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the brisket to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently at 300°F until warmed through, preserving its tenderness.
What should I do if my brisket turns out tough?
If you find your brisket is tough, it’s usually due to insufficient cooking time. Make sure to cook it low and slow! After a four-hour roasting period at 250°F, if it’s still tough, cover it and return it to the oven. You can add a splash of broth or water to the pan to create steam, allowing it to cook longer until tender, up to an additional hour if needed.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Great question! For those with gluten sensitivities, you can substitute Guinness with a gluten-free beer or beef broth for the sauce. Additionally, ensure to check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free if you’re adapting for dietary needs. This Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket is quite adaptable to suit various tastes!
What should I look for when selecting cranberries?
When choosing cranberries, look for plump, firm berries with shiny skin. They should be deep red in color without any dark spots or blemishes. If you opt for dried cranberries, ensure they’re free of added sugars for a healthier choice, keeping your dish perfectly balanced in sweetness.
Cranberry Holiday Beef Brisket: A Cozy One-Pan Wonder
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the Brisket: Remove brisket from fridge 30 minutes before cooking. Rub with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Prepare the Aromatics: Dice half of the onion, slice the other half, mince garlic, and dice shallot.
- Make the Sauce: Sauté diced onion, shallot, and garlic for 5 minutes. Stir in cranberry jelly, Worcestershire, and Guinness. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Roasting Pan: Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Pour half of the sauce into roasting pan, add sliced onion.
- Arrange the Ingredients: Place seasoned brisket in pan, cover with remaining sauce, add potatoes and cranberries, then cover with foil.
- Roast the Brisket: Roast brisket for 4 hours. Monitor for browning and bubbling sauce.
- Serve the Brisket: Let brisket rest for 30 minutes, then slice and serve with potatoes and sauce, garnished with herbs.
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