Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in. This dish combines creamy, cheesy pasta with tender beef brisket, making it a hearty meal that stands out. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, Brisket Mac and Cheese is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of cheeses and brisket adds a depth of flavor that elevates traditional mac and cheese.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a potluck dish; this recipe fits any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? Adding brisket makes it even more appealing to meat lovers.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish provides warmth and satisfaction, making it ideal for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Brisket Mac and Cheese, having the right tools is essential. These tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking pasta and combining all ingredients easily.
• Medium pot: Perfect for heating the brisket mixture without crowding your main dish.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pots.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results every time.

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 ounce pipe rigate pasta, (or shells (we used organic pipe rigate))

For the Cheesy 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
• 2 cups white cheddar cheese, (shredded)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, (shredded)

For the Brisket Topping

• 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 the pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth into the pot with pasta. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Gradually stir in both 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 well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally. This helps thicken the sauce slightly.

Step 6: Heat the Brisket

In a medium pot, place your leftover shredded brisket. Add in beef broth and barbecue sauce. Stir well and heat over medium heat for around 3-4 minutes or until everything is hot.

Step 7: Combine It All Together

Spoon generous amounts of mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top each bowl with warm brisket mixture. Drizzle additional barbecue sauce on top if desired. Serve immediately!

Step 8: Optional Toppings

For an extra crunch, feel free to add crispy onion strings on top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Brisket Mac and Cheese!

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a hearty dish that can be served in various ways to cater to different tastes and occasions. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting a gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Crispy Onion Strings

• Adding crispy onion strings on top provides a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor of the dish.

As a Hearty Main Course

• Serve this dish as the main attraction at dinner. Its rich flavors make it filling enough to stand alone.

Pair with Extra BBQ Sauce

• Drizzling more barbecue sauce over the top brings an extra layer of sweetness and tang, complementing the brisket beautifully.

Accompany with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness.

In Individual Portions

• Serve in small bowls for individual portions, making it perfect for parties or gatherings where guests can help themselves.

How to Perfect Brisket Mac and Cheese

To make your Brisket Mac and Cheese truly exceptional, follow these tips that ensure creamy, cheesy goodness every time.

• Use Quality Cheeses: Choose sharp cheddar and white cheddar for a robust flavor that melts beautifully.
• Add More Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for extra depth.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps it thicken and enhances flavors.
• Mix in Veggies: Consider adding sautéed spinach or roasted tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor contrast.
• Bake for a Crispy Top: For an oven-baked version, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking until golden brown.

Best Side Dishes for Brisket Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with Brisket Mac and Cheese can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crusty loaf spread with garlic butter complements the cheesy richness perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances out the creaminess of the mac and cheese.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add a smoky flavor that pairs well with brisket.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory mac and cheese.
5. Pickles: A side of dill pickles introduces a zesty crunch that cuts through the richness of the dish.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed in Caesar dressing adds freshness alongside your comfort food.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide earthiness and texture that enhance your meal experience.
8. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans offer another layer of flavor while keeping with the Southern theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brisket Mac and Cheese, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for.

• Using the wrong pasta: Ensure you choose pasta that holds cheese sauce well, like pipe rigate or shells. Avoid thin noodles that may not support the heavy ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook your pasta just until al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to add spices like garlic powder and black pepper. Seasoning enhances flavor and makes your dish more enjoyable.
• Not letting the cheese melt properly: Stir in cheese slowly over low heat to ensure it melts evenly. Rushing this step can lead to clumpy cheese sauce.
• Neglecting toppings: Adding crispy onion strings or extra barbecue sauce on top can elevate your dish. Don’t skip them for a complete experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Brisket Mac and Cheese

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, leave out toppings before freezing.

Reheating Brisket Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each session until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish featuring macaroni mixed with creamy cheese sauce, topped with tender, shredded brisket and drizzled with BBQ sauce.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While white cheddar and sharp cheddar are recommended, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.

How can I customize my Brisket Mac and Cheese?

You can add vegetables like spinach or jalapeños for extra nutrition or spice. You might also try different meats or additional toppings like bacon bits.

How do I store leftovers of Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2-3 months.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Brisket Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and maintains its flavor throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Brisket Mac and Cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience packed with rich flavors and textures. This dish is perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home after a long day. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or switching up the cheeses—make it uniquely yours!