Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy macaroni and cheese with savory beef brisket. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of rich cheeses and tender brisket creates a unique flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The creamy cheese sauce paired with smoky beef brisket delivers an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Transform your leftover brisket into a fabulous new meal that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Great for lunch, dinner, or even as a side at barbecues and gatherings.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish combines two favorites into one satisfying meal that warms the heart.

Tools and Preparation

To make Brisket Mac and Cheese, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium pot
• Colander
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking pasta and combining all the ingredients seamlessly.
• Medium pot: Perfect for heating the brisket mixture without overcrowding your main dish.
• Colander: Essential for draining the pasta efficiently after cooking.
• Cheese grater: Ensures that cheese melts evenly into the sauce for a creamy texture.

Ingredients

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a delicious macaroni and cheese that is topped with beef brisket, onion strings, and drizzled with BBQ sauce.

For the Pasta

• 16 ounces pipe rigate pasta, (or shells (we used organic pipe rigate))

For the Sauce

• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama®
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheesy Brisket Topping

• 2 cups white cheddar cheese, (shredded)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, (shredded)
• 2 cups leftover beef brisket, (shredded)
• ¼ cup beef broth
• ¼ cup barbecue sauce

How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

Pour in whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth into the pot with pasta. Stir to combine and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 3: Add the Cheddar Cheese

Slowly stir in both shredded white cheddar cheese and sharp cheddar cheese. Mix well until all the cheese has melted into a creamy sauce.

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama®, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all seasonings evenly.

Step 5: Simmer the Mixture

Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally. This allows flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 6: Prepare the Brisket Topping

In a medium pot over medium heat, place shredded leftover brisket along with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Stir well until heated through for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Spoon generous portions of mac and cheese into bowls. Top each serving with warm brisket and drizzle additional barbecue sauce on top. Serve immediately!

Optional Garnish

For an extra crunch, consider topping your Brisket Mac and Cheese with crispy onion strings before serving.

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a hearty dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Classic Serving Style

• Serve in a bowl topped with shredded brisket, BBQ sauce, and crispy onion strings for added crunch.

Family Style

• Present the Brisket Mac and Cheese in a large casserole dish, allowing guests to serve themselves. This is perfect for gatherings.

Individual Portions

• Use small ramekins for individual servings. This makes a great presentation and is ideal for dinner parties.

Garnished Plates

• Plate the mac and cheese with fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top to add color and freshness.

Side Sauce Station

• Offer a variety of BBQ sauces on the side so guests can customize their meal according to their preferences.

How to Perfect Brisket Mac and Cheese

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Brisket Mac and Cheese, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cheeses for better melting and flavor. Freshly grated cheese works best.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce. This prevents mushiness.
• Combine Sauces Thoroughly: Stir the milk, cream, and broth well to ensure an even distribution of flavors before adding cheese.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture as you cook, adjusting spices according to your preference for a personalized taste.
• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread – A crunchy loaf spread with garlic butter makes an excellent accompaniment.
2. Coleslaw – The crispness of coleslaw balances the richness of mac and cheese perfectly.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color while providing a nice contrast in texture.
4. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs well with savory dishes like Brisket Mac and Cheese, enhancing the overall meal.
5. Baked Beans – Smoky baked beans complement the BBQ flavors in the brisket beautifully.
6. Caesar Salad – A refreshing Caesar salad offers a nice contrast to this hearty dish while adding some greens to your plate.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a delightful crunch that pairs well with creamy mac and cheese.
8. Pickle Chips – Tangy pickle chips add crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brisket Mac and Cheese can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes that affect the final dish.

• Using the wrong pasta: Opt for pipe rigate or shells for optimal cheese sauce coverage. Other shapes may not hold the sauce well.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook the pasta al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in cooking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right amounts for perfect flavor and texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget spices! Seasoning enhances flavors, so incorporate all recommended spices for a richer taste.
• Not letting it simmer: Allowing the mixture to simmer helps meld flavors together. Skipping this step may result in a bland dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Brisket Mac and Cheese

• Use freezer-safe containers for best results.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Brisket Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and reheat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brisket Mac and Cheese.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute with cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.

How do I make my mac and cheese creamier?

For creamier texture, add more heavy cream or a bit of sour cream while mixing in the cheeses.

What should I serve with Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I use leftover brisket?

Absolutely! Leftover brisket works perfectly in this recipe, adding great flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Brisket Mac and Cheese combines comforting macaroni with tender brisket, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or using your favorite cheeses. Enjoy this hearty dish that brings joy to every bite!