Brisket Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings family and friends together, look no further than Brisket Mac and Cheese! This recipe is not just your average mac and cheese; it’s a delightful twist that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender beef brisket, creating a meal that’s perfect for cozy weeknights or lively gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this dish will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

What makes Brisket Mac and Cheese so special is the combination of flavors and textures. It’s rich, savory, and just plain delicious! Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both busy families and laid-back weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love mac and cheese, and adding brisket takes it to the next level—making it a hit with everyone!
• Perfect for leftovers: If you have leftover brisket from another meal, this recipe is a fantastic way to use it up while creating something new.
• Comfort food at its best: The creamy cheese sauce combined with tender brisket provides a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple and wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You might already have most of them in your pantry. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this scrumptious Brisket Mac and Cheese:

For the Pasta

• 16 ounce pipe rigate pasta (or shells; we used organic pipe rigate)

For the Cheese 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® seasoning
• 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 Topping

• 2 cups leftover beef brisket (shredded)
• ¼ cup beef broth
• ¼ cup barbecue sauce

Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to play around with ingredients to suit your taste or pantry staples. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: If you don’t have brisket on hand, try shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option!
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to sneak in some extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to give your mac and cheese an extra kick!

How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain it well and return it to the pot. Cooking the pasta perfectly is crucial as it will soak up all that delicious cheesy goodness later!

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Pour in the milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth into the pot with pasta. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. This creamy base is what makes our Brisket Mac and Cheese so irresistible!

Step 3: Melt in the Cheeses

Slowly stir in your grated cheeses until they’re melted completely. This step ensures that every bite of macaroni is enveloped in cheesy bliss. Don’t rush this part; let those flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in all those wonderful seasonings we gathered earlier: garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama®, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Mix well! These spices add depth of flavor that elevates our dish.

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Allow everything to simmer for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally. This helps all those flavors mingle together nicely while thickening up that luscious cheese sauce.

Step 6: Heat Up the Brisket

In a separate medium pot, place your leftover brisket along with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Stir well and heat over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until hot. This step makes sure that every bite of brisket is juicy and flavorful.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Spoon generous portions of mac and cheese into bowls. Top each serving with warm brisket, drizzling additional barbecue sauce over the top if desired. Serve immediately for maximum gooeyness!

Step 8: Optional Toppings

For an extra crunch factor, sprinkle crispy onion strings on top before serving! They add a delightful texture contrast that everyone will love.

There you have it—a mouthwatering Brisket Mac and Cheese that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brisket Mac and Cheese

Creating the perfect Brisket Mac and Cheese is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Use high-quality cheeses: Opting for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties not only enhances the flavor but also improves the creaminess of your sauce. Fresh cheese melts better, giving you that gooey texture we all love.

• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures that your pasta retains a slight bite, which helps it hold up against the creamy cheese sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when baked or mixed with sauces.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the cheese sauce to simmer for a few additional minutes gives the flavors time to meld together, resulting in a richer taste. Just make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!

• Experiment with seasoning: Feel free to adjust and add spices according to your taste. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add an exciting depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the mac and cheese in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving, which can be a huge time-saver on busy days!

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese is not only delicious but also visually appealing when served right. Here are some ideas for presenting this comforting dish in style.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and brightness, balancing out the rich flavors.
• Crispy onion strings: Adding these on top provides an extra crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese.

Side Dishes

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing complements the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce—plus, who doesn’t love garlic bread?
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a healthy crunch and vibrant colors to your plate.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors, making it an ideal side dish that brings everything together.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with your Brisket Mac and Cheese! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brisket Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious comfort food throughout the week. Whether you’re planning a busy week ahead or just want to savor leftovers, this recipe can be stored and reheated with ease.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; just remember to let it cool first!

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, microwave in short intervals (about 1-2 minutes), stirring in between until warmed through.
• From frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or microwave straight from the freezer on low power until heated thoroughly.
• Add a splash of milk or broth while reheating to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Brisket Mac and Cheese that you might have:

Can I make Brisket Mac and Cheese without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with more milk or use a vegan cream alternative for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the richness of the dish.

How can I customize my Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. You can also switch up the cheeses based on your preference—monterey jack or gouda would work wonderfully too!

How long does Brisket Mac and Cheese last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Brisket Mac and Cheese will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze my Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Be sure to store it in freezer-safe containers, and it will last for about 2 months. Just remember to thaw it before reheating!

What’s a good side dish for Brisket Mac and Cheese?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with Brisket Mac and Cheese, adding a refreshing balance to this rich meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Brisket Mac and Cheese! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. With its creamy goodness topped with tender brisket, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists on this classic comfort food!