Baked Corned Beef is a tender and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any meal. Just pop it in the oven and let the magic happen as the spices get cozy with the meat!
I love how easy it is to make this dish. It’s great for sandwiches or just on its own with some sides. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of cooking meat filling up the house? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef Brisket: This is the star of the dish. A 3 to 4 lb brisket is ideal, but if you can’t find corned beef, you might try a regular brisket with a brining process for flavor. Most grocery stores carry it, especially around St. Patrick’s Day.
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer melted butter for that rich flavor, but olive oil works just as well. You can use any neutral oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Spices: The mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and mustard powder adds depth to your beef. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika is perfectly fine. Don’t hesitate to get creative with spices!
Brown Sugar or Mustard Seeds: These are optional for a sweet crust. If you’re watching sugar intake, you can skip it or use a sugar substitute. Crushed garlic or crushed red pepper can also add an interesting twist!
How Do I Get a Perfectly Crispy Crust on My Corned Beef?
Creating a nice crust is key to elevating the dish. Here’s how to achieve that golden-brown exterior:
- Make sure to rub the spice mixture in well, pressing it to adhere to the moist surface of the brisket.
- Bake initially covered with aluminum foil to keep it juicy. This prevents the rub from burning.
- Remove the foil for the last 20-30 minutes and increase the heat slightly if needed. This allows the crust to form and crisp up beautifully!
Letting the meat rest is also essential before slicing. This helps all those delicious juices redistribute, ensuring each slice remains moist.
How to Make Baked Corned Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corned Beef:
- 3 to 4 lb corned beef brisket (with spice packet, if available)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
For the Spice Mixture:
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Optional: 1/4 cup brown sugar or crushed mustard seeds for crust
For Garnish:
- 1 tsp dried thyme or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and 2.5 to 3 hours for baking. After baking, letting the corned beef rest for 10-15 minutes is essential. So overall, set aside about 3 to 3.5 hours to enjoy your delicious baked corned beef!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures an even cooking temperature for your corned beef.
2. Prepare the Corned Beef:
Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold running water. This step is important to remove excess brine, which can be too salty. After rinsing, pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better.
3. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, mustard powder, and optional brown sugar or crushed mustard seeds. Mixing these spices together creates a flavorful rub for the meat.
4. Rub the Corned Beef:
Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter all over the brisket. Then, take your spice mixture and rub it generously over the entire brisket. Press the mixture in a bit so it sticks well.
5. Bake the Corned Beef:
Place the seasoned corned beef on a roasting pan or baking dish with the fat side facing up. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. This will help trap moisture as it cooks.
6. Cooking Time:
Slide your roasting pan into the preheated oven. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and reaches an internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C).
7. Crisp the Crust:
During the last 20-30 minutes of baking, carefully remove the foil. This step allows the crust to get nice and crispy. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Let it Rest:
Once your corned beef is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it lets the juices settle into the meat.
9. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the corned beef thinly against the grain for the best texture. Garnish with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or thyme for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious baked corned beef!
This baked corned beef will have a beautifully crusted exterior with juicy, tender meat inside. Perfect for a hearty meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
While corned beef brisket is traditional, you can substitute it with other cuts like round steak or chuck roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, and you should adjust based on the thickness and tenderness of the meat.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the spice mix. Start with a small amount, taste the mix, and adjust as needed to find your perfect heat level!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Leftover corned beef can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
How do I know when the Corned Beef is Done?
The best way to check for doneness is using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) for tender, sliceable meat. If it’s not quite there, continue baking until it reaches the desired temperature.
