One Test Kitchen pro said this onion-braised brisket was better than her mama’s.
We know no better compliment.
“My mother’s brisket has hands-down been the best I’ve ever tasted…until now.”

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall
The onion soup packet threw me off at first, but it adds such a savory umami flavor.
“Overalldon’t tell my momthis is my new favorite brisket recipe,” she concludes.
We couldn’t think of higher praise, though we’re sure mom’s brisket is great, too.

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall
Ingredients
1(5-lb.
)beef brisket(first cut)
4tsp.kosher salt
4tsp.coarselyground black pepper
1Tbsp.paprika
1Tbsp.olive oil
4medium(8 oz.
each)yellow onions, sliced 1/2-in.-thick(about 5 cups)
1(14.4-oz.)pkg.

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall
Let sit at room temperature on a large rimmed baking sheet for 1 hour.
Sear brisket:
Preheat oven to 325F.
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high.

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall
Add brisket and cook until well browned on both sides, 3 to 4 minutes per side.
Return to baking sheet.
Soften onions:
Reduce heat to medium and add yellow onions and pearl onions to Dutch oven.

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall
Cook, stirring often, until softened and beginning to caramelize, about 15 minutes.
Return brisket to Dutch oven, fat side down, nestling in the onion mixture.
(Half of the brisket should be submerged in liquid; if not, add more beer.)

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall
Trim any excess fat from brisket and skim fat from top of braising liquid.
Serve:
Serve with pan juices and onions over polenta or mashed potatoes; garnish with chives.

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall