How to Reheat Brisket (5 Best Methods for Tender and Juicy Brisket)
on Jan 24, 2022
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Learn how to reheat brisket so that it’s as tender and juicy as the day it was cooked! Once brisket is cooked to perfection, reheating the leftovers is a breeze. It just takes the right technique and a bit of patience.
Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can easily learn these simple tips and techniques for reheating brisket. It’ll make you forget that you’re eating leftovers!
What is the Best Way to Reheat Brisket?
The rule of thumb when it comes to reheating brisket is to remove it from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes first. If the meat is cold, it will not reheat evenly and could become tough and dry.
Is It Better to Reheat Brisket Whole or Sliced?
Sliced brisket takes less time to reheat than a whole brisket, but both can be reheated successfully. It is easier though, to overcook slices if you’re not careful. For a whole piece of brisket, keep in mind that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking beef until the internal temperature is at least 145°F. After reheating and letting the meat sit for the recommended time, check the internal temperature to confirm that the meat is ready to serve.
How Do You Reheat Beef without Drying it Out?
It’s important to avoid overcooking the beef. Another tip to avoid drying out the meat is to ensure there’s enough moisture. If you saved the juices when you cooked the brisket, pour it on the meat before reheating. If you don’t have gravy or juices on hand, you can use beef stock or beef broth instead.
Method 1: Reheating Brisket in the Oven
While the meat sits at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes, preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the meat in a baking dish and cover with leftover juices (beef stock or beef broth can be used as well). Cover the dish tightly with a double layer of foil to ensure that the moisture does not escape. This will help to keep the meat moist. Bake whole pieces of brisket for 1 hour and slices for 20 minutes. Use an instant read thermometer to ensure the meat has reached 145°F.
Method 2: In the Smoker
Start by heating the smoker to 225°F. Wrap the room temperature brisket in 2 layers of foil and set it in the smoker away from direct heat. Once the temperature of the brisket reaches 155°F, remove the foil and continue to cook for a maximum of 10 minutes. Once the internal temperature is between 145 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit, you’re ready to serve.
Method 3: On the Stove Top
When reheating brisket on the stovetop, the 2 most important tips are to maintain a low heat and to use a heavy, thick-bottomed pan. This ensures that the meat does not become too dry during the reheating process. Place the brisket in a pan and cover fully with beef broth, beef stock or BBQ sauce. Seal tightly with aluminum foil and let warm for 30 to 45 minutes. Remember to check the internal temperature of the meat to confirm it’s done.
Method 4: In an Air Fryer
Air fryers are still all the rage but be wary of using this method. Compared to the other options, you lose more juiciness and tenderness using an air fryer. Set the temperature on the air fryer to 350°F and ensure that the brisket is at room temperature. Slice the brisket so it fits well into the air fryer and cook for approximately 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature is between 145 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Method 5: Using a Sous Vide Machine
If you have sous vide machine you’ll get the best results but it does require more time. Allow the brisket to come to room temperature and transfer it to a vacuum-sealed bag. Set the temperature of the sous vide machine to 150°F, add the bag and fill the machine with enough water to cover the brisket. You’ll know the brisket is ready once it reaches the same temperature as the water. This varies based on the size of the meat and can take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours.
Tips & Tricks
- Remove the leftover brisket from the refrigerator 30 minutes before reheating: Reheating cold brisket is a no-no. Letting it rest at room temperature ensures that the meat heats through evenly while retaining its moisture.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor the doneness: You’ll know the meat is ready once the internal temperature is 145°F. Be sure to check the center of the thickest part of the meat.
- Avoid overcooking: It’s best to check the meat and monitor the temperature at regular intervals. It’s always easier to continue reheating because there’s no turning back once the meat is already overcooked and dry.
How Long to Reheat Leftover Brisket in the Oven?
Ensure that the oven is preheated before adding the brisket. The length of time you need to reheat leftover brisket in the oven will depend on the amount of brisket and whether it’s whole or sliced. A whole piece needs to be reheated for at least 1 hour. If the brisket is sliced, 20 minutes will get the job done.
How Do You Serve Brisket the Next Day?
The best tip to keep in mind when serving leftover brisket is to ensure that you retain or add as much moisture as possible. It can then be enjoyed in sandwiches, pies or other dishes.
You May Also Like:
- How to Reheat Steak
- How to Reheat Crab Legs
- How to Reheat Rotisserie Chicken
- How to Reheat Lasagna in the Oven
- How to Reheat Pizza in the Oven
Reheating Brisket Step-by-Step Instructions
Ingredients
- 1 pound leftover brisket
- optional beef stock
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Let the leftover brisket sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Place the meat in a baking dish and cover with leftover juices or beef broth.
- Cover the dish tightly with a double layer of foil to ensure that the moisture does not escape.
- Bake whole pieces of brisket for 1 hour and slices for 20 minutes or until it’s completely cooked through.
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.
