If you’re craving something hearty and deeply satisfying, this Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine slow-cooked brisket bathed in a rich tomato and red wine sauce infused with fragrant herbs and a subtle hint of spice, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tender meat with a bold, comforting flavor. This dish is a perfect celebration of traditional Italian flavors brought together in a simple yet impressive way, making it an ideal centerpiece for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you—this Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe relies on straightforward, quality ingredients that each bring something unique to the table. From fresh vegetables to aromatic herbs, every element enhances the texture, taste, and color.
- 3–4 lb beef brisket, trimmed: Choose a well-marbled cut for the best tenderness and rich flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For beautifully searing the brisket and building flavor in the base.
- 1 large onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic offers a fragrant punch that’s essential in Italian cuisine.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Bring natural sweetness and texture to the sauce.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Give a subtle savory backbone and crunch before softening.
- 1 cup dry red wine: Lifts the sauce with acidity and complexity.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The tomato base is rich and hearty, providing body to the braising liquid.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Classic Italian herb enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Adds sweetness and a touch of freshness.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle, warm heat that balances the richness.
- 1 bay leaf: Imparts a delicate aromatic note during braising.
- 1 cup beef broth: Essential for moisture and deep savory undertones.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to bringing all the flavors together.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish just before serving.
How to Make Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Brisket
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Pat the brisket dry with paper towels—this helps the meat sear nicely instead of steaming—and then season generously with salt and black pepper. The seasoning at this stage is crucial as it layers flavor right at the start.
Step 2: Searing the Brisket
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the brisket in and let it develop a deep golden-brown crust on both sides, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Don’t rush this step; a good sear locks in juices and adds incredible flavor complexity. Once browned, remove the brisket from the pot and set it aside.
Step 3: Building the Flavor Base
In the same pot, toss in the sliced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables soften and begin to release their natural sweetness. Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. The tomato paste should cook for a minute or two to deepen its flavor.
Step 4: Deglazing and Combining Ingredients
Pour in the red wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Those bits are flavor gold! Next, add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and bay leaf. Stir everything together, then nestle the brisket back into the pot, making sure it’s partially submerged in the sauce for even cooking.
Step 5: Braising the Brisket
Cover the pot tightly with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let the brisket braise slowly for 3 to 3.5 hours until it becomes tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. This low, slow cooking is what transforms the meat into that lush, fork-tender perfection.
Step 6: Resting and Serving
Once done, carefully remove the brisket and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain to maximize tenderness. Meanwhile, simmer the sauce on the stovetop to thicken if needed. Return the sliced brisket to the sauce to soak up all the delicious flavors. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a vibrant, herby note but also lifts the dish visually. You could also consider a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese for a touch of richness and elegance.
Side Dishes
This Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy polenta, silky mashed potatoes, or a crusty baguette to soak up the luscious sauce. Roasted seasonal vegetables or a crisp green salad cut with a bright vinaigrette also complement the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic family-style presentation, serve the sliced brisket arranged on a large platter with sauce generously ladled over. Alternatively, turn the leftovers into gourmet sandwiches with crusty bread and a smear of horseradish mayo. You could also shred the cooled brisket for a dramatic plating over soft polenta or even use it as a robust filling for stuffed pasta shells.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This recipe actually tastes better the next day because the flavors have more time to meld. Store the sliced brisket along with the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping the meat in the sauce helps maintain its moisture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep the Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe on hand for longer, it freezes beautifully. Place portions of brisket and sauce in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing its delicious texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, covered, to avoid drying out the brisket. Stir occasionally and add a splash of beef broth if the sauce thickens too much in the fridge. A slow reheat ensures the meat stays tender and the sauce remains flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of beef instead of brisket?
While brisket is ideal for its unique texture and fat content that breaks down beautifully during braising, you could substitute chuck roast or short ribs. Keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the cut’s thickness and fat content.
Do I have to use red wine in the recipe?
Red wine adds acidity and complexity, but if you prefer to skip alcohol, substitute with additional beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to mimic that tangy depth.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your beef broth doesn’t contain gluten additives. It’s a satisfying option for those avoiding gluten without compromising on flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. After searing the brisket and sautéing the veggies on the stove, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours. Just be sure the brisket is partly submerged in the sauce for even cooking.
How do I know when the brisket is done?
The brisket is ready when it’s tender enough to be pierced easily with a fork and can be sliced without resistance. Typically after 3 to 3.5 hours of braising, it reaches that ideal fork-tender stage.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for bringing loved ones together around the table. Its rich sauce, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and comforting aroma make it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game with authentic Italian flair. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a treasured favorite just like it is in my kitchen.
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Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Italian Style Braised Brisket is a hearty and flavorful slow-cooked beef dish that combines tender brisket with a rich tomato and red wine sauce infused with traditional Italian herbs. Perfect for a comforting main course, it delivers deep, savory flavors that improve when made ahead. Serve with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 3–4 lb beef brisket, trimmed
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
Liquids & Sauces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
Herbs & Spices
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Pat the brisket dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
- Sear the Brisket: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the brisket and sear it for 4–5 minutes per side until it develops a rich brown crust. Remove the brisket and set it aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same Dutch oven, add sliced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, stirring occasionally.
- Add Seasonings and Deglaze: Stir in tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix to combine then pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and add the bay leaf. Stir well to combine the sauce components.
- Braise the Brisket: Return the brisket to the Dutch oven, ensuring it is slightly submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise the meat for 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender and easy to shred.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the brisket from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin slices to maintain tenderness.
- Thicken Sauce and Serve: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it gently on the stovetop until it thickens to your liking. Return the sliced brisket to the sauce, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- This dish is best if prepared a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld deeply.
- Store sliced brisket in the sauce and reheat gently to maintain moisture and flavor.
- Pair with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to complement the rich sauce.
