Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe

This Italian Style Braised Brisket brings the warmth and spirit of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. Imagine meltingly tender brisket bathed in a luxurious sauce swirling with ripe tomatoes, red wine, and herbs—a comforting combination that’s both rustic and elegant. It’s the meal everyone asks for again and again, dazzling at special gatherings but simple enough for a weekend treat. If you love Italian food and crave cozy, slow-cooked flavors, gather round: this is the dish you’ve been waiting to savor.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every bite of Italian Style Braised Brisket is layered with flavors from a handful of straightforward, quality ingredients. Each one has a starring role, whether it’s building the savory sauce, lending richness, or offering pops of color and freshness.

• Beef Brisket (4 to 5 pounds): The star of the show! Choose a well-marbled brisket for the tenderest results—you want plenty of fat for deep flavor.
• Olive Oil (3 tablespoons): For sumptuous searing and a hint of Mediterranean richness right from the start.
• Onion (1 large, diced): Brings sweetness and body to the sauce as it softens and melds with the tomatoes.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic depth and classic Italian character—don’t skimp!
• Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces): Infuses the sauce with bright acidity and irresistible richness.
• Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon): A spoonful for concentrated flavor and deeper color in the sauce.
• Red Wine (1 cup): Use a bold Italian red like Chianti—this transforms the sauce into something truly memorable.
• Beef Broth (2 cups): Rounds out the braising liquid and invites the brisket to get deliciously tender.
• Dried Oregano (2 teaspoons): Lends an earthy, herbal note that’s classic Italian comfort.
• Dried Basil (2 teaspoons): For a subtly sweet, fragrant flavor that softens the sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes (1 teaspoon, optional): Sprinkle in for a gentle kick—the heat is wonderfully inviting.
• Salt and Pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into balance at every step.
• Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens up the dish with a pop of color and fresh, herby flavor at serving time.

How to Make Italian Style Braised Brisket

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you get cooking, set the mood—preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Low and slow is our mantra for Italian Style Braised Brisket, so that every bit of the meat becomes impossibly tender as it soaks up all those beautiful flavors.

Step 2: Season the Brisket

Pat the brisket dry using paper towels—the drier the surface, the better the sear. Generously season all over with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy; this first layer of seasoning sets the stage for everything that follows.

Step 3: Sear the Brisket

Heat your olive oil in a large Dutch oven or another heavy, oven-safe pot. Once it’s shimmering, lay the brisket in carefully and let it sear for four to five minutes on each side. You’re after a rich, golden-brown crust—that’s pure flavor! Transfer the seared brisket to a plate and set it aside for just a bit.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium, then add your diced onion. Stir often, scraping up the delicious brown bits from the pot. After about five minutes, once the onion is soft and translucent, stir in your minced garlic for the last minute—just until the kitchen smells irresistible.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Now the magic begins! Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, and beef broth. Stir well, making sure everything comes together into a glossy, deeply colored sauce. This is the flavorful bed your brisket will bask in as it braises.

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Add the dried oregano, basil, and (if you like a little warmth) red pepper flakes. Season with more salt and pepper to taste. This is when the sauce transforms into something truly Italian and utterly addictive.

Step 7: Return Brisket to Pot

Nestle your glorious, seared brisket back into the pot. Press it down gently so it’s mostly submerged in that robust tomato-wine sauce—every inch should get a chance to soak up those flavors.

Step 8: Braise in the Oven

Cover the pot and slide it into your preheated oven. Now, let time work its wonders. After three to four hours, your Italian Style Braised Brisket will be fork-tender, with melting edges and a sauce you’ll want to spoon over everything.

Step 9: Rest Before Slicing

Once out of the oven, let the brisket rest in its sauce for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the meat to relax so you get beautiful, juicy slices.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Slice the brisket against the grain for maximum tenderness. Arrange the slices on a platter, ladle the luscious tomato-wine sauce over top, and scatter with lots of fresh parsley for a lively finish.

How to Serve Italian Style Braised Brisket

Garnishes

A generous handful of freshly chopped parsley is classic, but you can also add a dusting of grated Parmesan or even some lemon zest for brightness. Fresh basil leaves make a pretty, fragrant touch, especially if you want extra Italian flair.

Side Dishes

This brisket craves something creamy or starchy to soak up the sauce. Creamy polenta is dreamy, but mashed potatoes or buttered pasta are just as wonderful. For a lighter touch, serve alongside simple roasted vegetables or a big Italian salad.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, layer sliced Italian Style Braised Brisket over a bed of soft polenta on a large platter, letting the edges mingle with sauce for a dramatic presentation. Or, try piling leftovers onto crusty bread for unforgettable sandwiches—brisket paninis, anyone?

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you (miraculously!) have leftovers, let the brisket cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Keep the sauce and brisket together so the meat stays moist, then refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors keep getting better as they meld!

Freezing

Italian Style Braised Brisket freezes beautifully. Slice the brisket first for easy portioning, then pack tightly in freezer bags or containers with plenty of sauce. Freeze for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm brisket gently in a covered pot on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. Or, pop it in the oven (covered) at 300°F until heated through. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the other methods keep it tender and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make Italian Style Braised Brisket ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors have extra time to mingle. Simply reheat gently before serving, and you’re in for a treat.

What kind of red wine should I use?

Choose a dry, robust Italian-style red wine such as Chianti, Cabernet, or Merlot. The wine enhances the sauce, but be sure it’s something you’d enjoy drinking—after all, you might want a glass alongside your brisket.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Brisket is the top pick for this dish because of its rich marbling and ability to become melt-in-your-mouth tender. However, a well-marbled chuck roast will also work if brisket isn’t available.

Is Italian Style Braised Brisket gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just be sure your beef broth is certified gluten-free if needed. Pair it with gluten-free sides like potatoes or polenta for a full meal.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

You bet! Sear the brisket and build the sauce as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours until the brisket is ultra-tender.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Style Braised Brisket is one of those dishes that truly brings people together—a heartwarming centerpiece that’s both impressive and deeply comforting. So whether it’s a big family dinner or a cozy weekend meal, give it a try and watch as everyone comes back for seconds… and maybe even thirds!

Print