If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked goodness, this Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender, fork-tender beef brisket bathing in a rich tomato and red wine sauce infused with classic Italian herbs. This dish takes a simple cut of meat and elevates it into a soul-satisfying masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to an impressive holiday feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key for this recipe. Each one plays a starring role, layering flavor, texture, and a vibrant pop of color that makes this dish truly shine.
- 3–4 lb beef brisket, trimmed: The star of the show, providing rich, hearty flavor and tender texture after slow braising.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for searing the meat and sautéing aromatics.
- 1 large onion, sliced: Provides sweetness and depth once softened to a golden hue.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Gives an aromatic punch that complements the meat and herbs beautifully.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds subtle earthiness and a touch of natural sweetness.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Lends a crisp texture and fresh, herbal undertones to the sauce.
- 1 cup dry red wine: Essential for deglazing the pan, it adds complexity and richness to the sauce.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: Forms the luscious, tangy base of the braising liquid.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce naturally.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Classic Italian herb providing a warm, slightly bitter note.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Fresh and fragrant, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a touch of heat for those who like a little kick.
- 1 bay leaf: Infuses a subtle earthiness during slow cooking.
- 1 cup beef broth: Keeps the brisket moist while enriching the sauce flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring the entire dish into harmony.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds brightness and a splash of green to finish.
How to Make Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Brisket
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Pat your brisket dry with paper towels to ensure a beautiful sear, then generously season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial seasoning is crucial because it draws flavor into the meat.
Step 2: Sear the Brisket
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, place your brisket in the pot and sear until the outside develops a beautiful deep brown crust, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. This caramelization enhances flavor and texture. Once browned, set the brisket aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, toss in the sliced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften and start to release their natural sweetness. This step lays down a flavorful foundation for the sauce.
Step 4: Build the Sauce Base
Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. This will bloom the herbs and concentrate the tomato flavor. Next, pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up every last flavorful bit stuck to the bottom.
Step 5: Combine and Braise
Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Return the brisket to the Dutch oven, making sure it’s partially submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let the brisket braise gently for 3 to 3 ½ hours until it becomes fork-tender and impossible to resist.
Step 6: Finish and Slice
Remove the brisket carefully and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Meanwhile, simmer the sauce on the stovetop to thicken if needed. Slice the brisket against the grain into thick, succulent pieces and nestle them back into the sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for that final pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a simple yet perfect garnish, adding vibrant color and a clean, herbaceous note that brightens the rich sauce. You might also consider a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan if you want to elevate the presentation further.
Side Dishes
This Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy polenta, whose silky texture complements the tender meat and hearty sauce like a dream. Mashed potatoes are another great option, soaking up every drop of the luxurious braising liquid. For a rustic feel, crusty bread is ideal for mopping up the sauce and adding satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping dinner, slice the brisket and serve it layered over a bed of polenta, topped with a spoonful of sauce, and finished with a sprinkle of parsley and cracked black pepper. Alternatively, try shredding the brisket and using it as a filling for warm focaccia sandwiches with arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a fun twist on presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish actually improves when made ahead! Store your sliced brisket in an airtight container, submerged in its sauce, to keep the meat moist and flavorful. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3 to 4 days for best taste and safety.
Freezing
To freeze, place the cooled brisket and sauce in a freezer-safe container. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat to preserve all those incredible textures and flavors.
Reheating
Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, making sure to occasionally spoon the sauce over the brisket to keep it moist. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out. If using a microwave, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts to retain tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef instead of brisket?
While brisket is ideal for its fat content and texture that shines after slow braising, you can substitute with chuck roast or short ribs for a similarly tender and flavorful result.
Is red wine necessary in this Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe?
Red wine adds a depth and richness that enhances the sauce beautifully, but you can substitute with additional beef broth or a little balsamic vinegar if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
How long can I braise the brisket without drying it out?
Braising at a low temperature for 3 to 3 ½ hours keeps the brisket juicy and tender. Going beyond 4 hours risks drying out the meat, so it’s best to check for tenderness with a fork around the 3-hour mark.
Can I prepare the sauce separately from the brisket?
While the flavors meld best together by cooking everything in one pot, you can make the sauce ahead and reheat it before adding sliced brisket to combine. This is a good option if you want to save time on cooking day.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe uses natural, whole ingredients without any gluten-containing products, making it safe and delicious for gluten-free eaters.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe is one of those dishes that fills your home with warmth and your heart with joy. It’s simple enough to make on a weekday yet impressive enough for special occasions. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll love the tender meat, savory sauce, and the comforting feeling it brings to the table. Trust me, once you make it, this will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.
Print
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, flavorful main course featuring tender beef brisket slow-cooked in a rich tomato and red wine sauce with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasions, this dish combines the depth of Italian flavors with the satisfying texture of slow-braised beef, yielding melt-in-your-mouth meat and a luscious sauce.
Ingredients
Beef Brisket
- 3–4 lb beef brisket, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
Tomato & Wine Sauce
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup beef broth
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat & Season: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Pat the brisket dry with paper towels and season it generously on all sides with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Brisket: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the brisket and sear on both sides until deeply browned, about 4–5 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor. Remove the brisket and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute to blend the flavors.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry red wine to deglaze, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Let the wine reduce slightly for about 2–3 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and add the bay leaf. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Braise in Oven: Return the brisket to the pot, nestling it slightly into the sauce so it’s partially submerged. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Slow Cook: Braise the brisket for 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the meat becomes fork-tender and easy to shred.
- Rest and Thicken Sauce: Remove the brisket from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Meanwhile, place the pot back on the stovetop and simmer the sauce over medium heat to thicken it if needed, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Slice the brisket against the grain, return slices to the sauce to coat, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with your choice of creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Notes
- This dish tastes even better when made a day ahead as the flavors meld overnight.
- Store sliced brisket in the sauce and gently reheat before serving to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Pair with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
