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A golden brown Oven Roasted Corned Beef rests on a carving board, sliced to reveal its tender, pink interior.

Ultimate Oven Roasted Corned Beef

This recipe transforms corned beef brisket into a succulent, tender, and flavorful masterpiece by using a low-and-slow braising method followed by a high-heat glaze. The key is cooking to an internal temperature of 195°F to 205°F to melt collagen, not just following time. The result is a perfectly caramelized, juicy roast that slices beautifully against the grain.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 45 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Irish
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large yellow onion, cut into wedges
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
  • 12 oz dark beer, stout, or low-sodium beef broth
  • 1/4 cup coarse-grain mustard
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy roasting pan with lid
  • Heavy-duty aluminum foil (if no lid)
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush or spoon
  • Probe or instant-read meat thermometer
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. For a less salty result (optional): Submerge the corned beef in a bowl or pot of cold water. Refrigerate for 4-8 hours, changing the water once. Pat the brisket thoroughly dry with paper towels.
  2. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place onion wedges, smashed garlic, bay leaves, and whole peppercorns in the bottom of a large Dutch oven or heavy roasting pan.
  3. Place the corned beef brisket fat-side up on top of the aromatics. Sprinkle the contents of the included spice packet over the meat.
  4. Pour the beer or broth into the pot until the liquid comes about 1/3 of the way up the sides of the meat. Do not submerge it completely.
  5. Cover the pot tightly with its lid or a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 4 to 4.5 hours. Begin checking the internal temperature with a probe thermometer at the 4-hour mark. The target internal temperature is a minimum of 195°F (90°C), up to 205°F (96°C). The meat is ready when a fork inserts with almost no resistance.
  7. Carefully remove the pot from the oven. Transfer the corned beef to a plate or cutting board. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
  8. In a small bowl, combine the coarse-grain mustard, brown sugar, and ground black pepper to make the glaze.
  9. Place the corned beef on a clean, foil-lined baking sheet or back into the Dutch oven (without the braising liquid). Brush the glaze generously over the entire top and sides of the brisket.
  10. Return the glazed corned beef to the hot oven, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky, bubbly, and caramelized.
  11. Transfer the finished corned beef to a clean cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for a minimum of 20 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  12. Using a sharp knife, slice the corned beef firmly but carefully against the grain. Serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use a flat-cut brisket for even cooking. The optional soaking step significantly reduces saltiness. The braising liquid can be strained and reduced to make a flavorful au jus. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and are excellent for sandwiches, hash, or Reuben-style dishes. If you don't have beer or broth, water can be used, but the flavor will be less complex. Always slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.