Meemaw’s Brisket Recipe: A Timeless Classic for Any Occasion

Meemaw's Brisket Recipe
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 240 mins
Total Time 4 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Cooking Temp: 350  F
Servings: 6
Estimated Cost: $  25
Calories: 290
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Description

This slow-roasted brisket is a beloved family recipe passed down from Meemaw's kitchen—tender, flavorful, and infused with rich, comforting spices. Coated in a savory rub with hints of sweetness and slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and a beefy broth, this dish delivers fall-apart, fork-tender beef every time. Whether served at Sunday dinner or a holiday feast, Meemaw’s Brisket brings people together and tastes like home.

Ingredients
  • 4 pounds 4–5 beef brisket (flat cut)
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Remove excess fat, leaving a thin layer to keep the meat moist during cooking.
  2. 2
    In a small bowl, mix onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  3. 3
    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sear the brisket on both sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This locks in the flavors.
  4. 4
    In a large roasting pan or Dutch oven, layer sliced onions and minced garlic on the bottom.
  5. 5
    Place the seared brisket on top, fat side up.
  6. 6
    Mix beef broth and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Pour the mixture around the brisket, making sure not to wash off the seasoning rub.
  7. 7
    Cover the pan tightly with foil or a lid. Cook in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender.
  8. 8
    Baste the brisket with its juices every hour for added moisture and flavor.
  9. 9
    Once cooked, let the brisket rest for 20-30 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender.
  10. 10
    Slice against the grain for the most tender bites.
  11. 11
    Optionally glaze the brisket with BBQ sauce before serving, or serve it on the side for dipping.
  12. 12
    Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or fresh coleslaw for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Serving Size 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 290kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20g31%
Saturated Fat 7g35%
Cholesterol 70mg24%
Sodium 600mg25%
Total Carbohydrate 4g2%
Sugars 2g
Protein 25g50%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.