If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece that instantly transforms any meal into a celebration, Glazed Corned Beef truly delivers. This recipe takes the salty, savory depths of classic corned beef and elevates them with a sticky, sweet-and-tangy glaze you’ll want to drizzle over everything in sight. The aroma as it bakes is downright irresistible, and the glistening finish invites everyone to gather ’round and dig in. Whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day or a simple Sunday dinner, this Glazed Corned Beef will make you the hero of your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Corned Beef:
- 3–4 pound corned beef brisket with seasoning packet
- Water to cover
Glaze:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
How to Make Glazed Corned Beef
Step 1: Simmer the Corned Beef
Place your corned beef brisket (don’t forget the seasoning packet!) into a big pot and cover it completely with water. As it gently simmers away, the meat becomes meltingly tender and infused with fragrant spice. Low and slow is the secret—plan for 2.5 to 3 hours so the brisket is fork-tender and ready to soak up that glossy glaze later.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the beef finishes simmering, turn your oven on to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help the brown sugar glaze bubble up and caramelize into that irresistible sticky coating in minutes flat.
Step 3: Mix Your Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Whisk it all together until smooth and glossy. Take a whiff—the balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy is almost too good to resist!
Step 4: Glaze and Roast
Lift the simmered corned beef carefully out of its pot and transfer it to a foil-lined baking dish (bonus: easy cleanup!). Brush the glaze thickly and lovingly over every surface of the brisket. Slide it into your hot oven and bake, uncovered, for 15–20 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly, caramelized, and shimmering with promise.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Don’t rush—give your beautiful Glazed Corned Beef a crucial 10-minute rest to lock in those juices. Then, using a sharp knife, slice it against the grain for slices that are tender, juicy, and practically melt in your mouth.
How to Serve Glazed Corned Beef
Garnishes
There’s nothing quite like a finishing flourish—a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a scattering of pickled mustard seeds—to make your Glazed Corned Beef sing. Try a few whole cloves studded over the top for extra aroma, or drizzle with remaining glaze for glossy appeal.
Side Dishes
Classic pairings like buttery cabbage, roasted carrots, and fluffy potatoes always make Glazed Corned Beef feel especially hearty and comforting. For a lighter twist, try steamed green beans or a zesty arugula salad to offset the richness of the meat and glaze.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, arrange the sliced Glazed Corned Beef on a wooden board surrounded by charred wedges of cabbage or rainbow carrots. Or, pile thin slices onto soft rolls with a swipe of mustard and crisp slaw for unforgettable sandwiches. The leftovers even make a killer hash tossed with potatoes and crispy onions!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Glazed Corned Beef keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store slices and remaining glaze in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let the flavors meld—they’re just as good (if not better) the next day.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy Glazed Corned Beef down the road, freeze tightly wrapped portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and you’ll be all set for an easy and impressive meal.
Reheating
To reheat, arrange slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through and tender, about 15–20 minutes. Add a splash of broth or leftover glaze to keep things juicy—no one likes dry corned beef!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
For the best results, stick with brisket specifically labeled as “corned beef,” which has been cured and seasoned just for this purpose. Other cuts won’t achieve the same classic texture or flavor, but you can experiment with similar slow-cooking cuts if needed.
What if I don’t have a seasoning packet?
No worries! You can make your own blend with a pinch each of peppercorns, mustard seed, coriander, bay leaf, and a few whole cloves. It’ll capture the spirit of Glazed Corned Beef wonderfully.
Is it possible to make Glazed Corned Beef in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook and glaze the beef a day ahead, then slice and gently reheat before serving. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more crave-worthy.
How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
Keep a close eye on your corned beef while it’s finishing in the oven. If your glaze bubbles too quickly or darkens too much, tent the brisket lightly with foil for the last few minutes. This helps you achieve that caramelized, not burnt, finish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Good news: Glazed Corned Beef is naturally gluten-free as long as your mustards and vinegars are certified gluten-free. Always check your ingredient labels to be sure!
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Glazed Corned Beef a spot on your table very soon—it’s the kind of recipe that never fails to gather a crowd and wow every palate. With its addictive glaze and poetry-in-motion tenderness, it might just become your new go-to for holidays, parties, and easy-but-impressive dinners. Enjoy every juicy bite!
Print
Glazed Corned Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Baking
- Cuisine: American, Irish-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Glazed Corned Beef recipe combines the classic flavors of corned beef with a sweet and tangy glaze, creating a delicious main course perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any special occasion. The tender, flavorful meat is complemented by a caramelized brown sugar and mustard glaze, making it a standout dish on any dinner table.
Ingredients
Corned Beef:
- 3–4 pound corned beef brisket with seasoning packet
- Water to cover
Glaze:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Cook the Corned Beef: Place the corned beef in a large pot, cover with water, add the seasoning packet, and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
- Prepare the Glaze: Mix brown sugar, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, and cloves in a bowl.
- Glaze and Bake: Transfer the cooked beef to a baking dish, brush with glaze, and bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes until caramelized.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider studding the beef with whole cloves before glazing.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or traditional cabbage and potatoes for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 ounces
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1050mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
