Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket

If you’re looking for a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket is just what you need! There’s something so comforting about a tender brisket simmering in a tangy-sweet cranberry sauce. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, not just because it’s delicious but also because it makes any gathering feel special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family dinner, this brisket is perfect for every occasion.

Imagine coming home after a long day to the mouthwatering aroma of this Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket waiting for you. It’s simple to prepare, and the slow cooker does all the work. You can enjoy quality time with your loved ones while it cooks away. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will hold a special place in your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Mouthwatering flavor: The combination of cranberry sauce and spices creates an irresistible glaze that your taste buds will love.
• Family-approved: Everyone from kids to adults enjoys this hearty meal that packs big flavor.
• Make-ahead goodness: Cook it in advance and let the flavors deepen overnight—perfect for meal prep!
• Versatile sides: Pair it with anything from mashed potatoes to fresh bread, and you’ll have a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket is super easy! These are simple and wholesome items that you may already have in your pantry or can easily find at the store.

For the Brisket

• 1 3 to 4 pound beef brisket
• 1 14-ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon oil (for searing)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to cater to different tastes, here are a few fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Instead of brisket, use a chuck roast or even chicken thighs for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: Toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you’re craving a spicy kick!
• Change up the fruit: Try using raspberry or apple sauce instead of cranberry for a different but equally delicious flavor.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like sage or oregano to give your sauce an extra depth of flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

Start by patting your brisket dry with paper towels. This helps ensure that you get a nice sear on the meat. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Seasoning at this stage is crucial as it enhances the overall flavor of the brisket as it cooks.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the brisket on both sides until it’s beautifully browned. This caramelization adds amazing flavor that seeps into the meat during cooking.

Step 3: Mix Your Glaze

In a mixing bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, beef broth, onion soup mix, minced garlic, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. This glaze is what makes our dish shine—tangy and sweet with layers of flavor!

Step 4: Slow Cook It

Place the seared brisket into your slow cooker and pour that lovely glaze over the top. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–6 hours until it’s fork-tender. Cooking low and slow allows all those flavors to meld together wonderfully.

Step 5: Resting Time

Once cooked, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat so each slice is juicy and tender.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve with plenty of that delicious sauce spooned over top. Your family will be begging for seconds!

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket as much as I do! It’s sure to become a beloved dish at your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket

Making this brisket is a breeze, but a few insider tips can take your dish from delicious to absolutely stunning!

• Choose the right cut: Opt for a well-marbled brisket to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor; the fat helps keep the meat juicy throughout the cooking process.

• Sear it well: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the brisket before slow cooking adds depth of flavor, creating that rich, caramelized crust that makes every bite irresistible.

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow your brisket to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the amounts of garlic or brown sugar according to your preference. A little extra garlic can add a nice kick, while more sugar can enhance the sweetness of the sauce.

• Use fresh herbs for garnish: Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme not only enhances presentation but also brightens up the flavors of the dish, making it even more delightful.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket

Presentation is key when serving this beautiful dish! With its rich glaze and tender slices, you’ll want to showcase it perfectly on your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped rosemary or thyme adds color and an aromatic touch that elevates both presentation and flavor.
• Cranberry sauce dollop: A small spoonful of extra cranberry sauce on top of each slice provides an inviting burst of color and complements the glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture pairs perfectly with the savory brisket, soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the tangy glaze, creating a balanced plate that delights your taste buds.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. It brings warmth and comfort alongside your main dish.
• Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: A mix of broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers adds color and nutrition while enhancing the overall meal experience with their caramelized flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket will be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy every tender bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket is perfect for meal prep, making it a great option to prepare in advance for busy days or special occasions. You can easily store the leftovers or even freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brisket to cool completely before storing.
• Place the brisket in an airtight container.
• Pour some of the sauce over the brisket to keep it moist.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the brisket into portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat from refrigerated: Place brisket slices in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• To reheat from frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the refrigerated reheating instructions.
• Add extra sauce during reheating if desired to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket that might help you as you prepare this dish.

Can I use a different cut of meat for Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket?

While brisket is ideal for this recipe due to its rich flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with chuck roast or round roast. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!

How do I make Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket spicier?

To add some heat to your Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the glaze before cooking. This will enhance flavor while providing a spicy kick!

Can I cook this recipe on high instead of low?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can cook your Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket on high for about 4–6 hours. While low cooking is preferred for tenderness, high cooking will still yield delicious results.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. You could also serve it with a fresh salad for a balanced meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort that brings everyone together around the table. Whether you’re savoring it during a cozy weeknight dinner or celebrating a special occasion, this brisket is sure to impress. Enjoy every tender bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience!