Brisket Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul, look no further than Brisket Mac and Cheese. This recipe combines two beloved favorites into one creamy, cheesy masterpiece topped with tender beef brisket. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings and will surely impress your loved ones. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover brisket!

There’s something about the combination of pasta, cheese, and brisket that just feels like a big hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this dish is sure to become one of your favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious flavor: The rich blend of cheeses and savory brisket makes each bite unforgettable!
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves mac and cheese! Adding brisket takes it up a notch for both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this dish in advance for easy reheating on busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful Brisket Mac and Cheese, you won’t need anything fancy—just wholesome ingredients that pack tons of flavor! Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Pasta

• 16 ounces 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®
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups white cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)

Topping

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

Variations

This Brisket Mac and Cheese is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not using brisket, shredded chicken or even sautéed mushrooms work great!
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheese varieties like gouda or pepper jack for extra flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: A sprinkle of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños will add a kick that spice lovers will enjoy.

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. This step ensures your pasta is perfectly cooked and ready to soak up all that creamy goodness!

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth into the pot with your pasta. Stir everything together gently and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. This creamy base forms the heart of your mac and cheese—it’s where all that cheesy magic begins!

Step 3: Add Cheeses

Slowly stir in both types of shredded cheese until they melt into that luscious sauce. Mixing in the cheeses at this stage creates an irresistibly gooey texture that everyone loves.

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama®, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Mix well so every bite is bursting with flavor. These seasonings elevate your mac and cheese from ordinary to extraordinary!

Step 5: Simmer Together

Let everything simmer together for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Prepare the Brisket Topping

In a separate medium pot, combine your shredded brisket with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Stir well and heat over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until it’s warmed through. This step adds layers of flavor that perfectly complement the creamy mac.

Step 7: Assemble Your Dish

Spoon generous portions of your mac and cheese into bowls. Top each serving with warm brisket and drizzle with barbecue sauce for those ultimate finishing touches. Serve immediately while it’s still hot!

Step 8: Optional Crunchy Topping

For an extra layer of texture, feel free to add crispy onion strings on top before serving. They add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac!

Enjoy this comforting dish any time you need a little warmth in your life!

Pro Tips for Making Brisket Mac and Cheese

Making the perfect Brisket Mac and Cheese is all about those little details that elevate your dish from good to unforgettable!

• Use high-quality cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged. It melts better and has a creamier texture, ensuring your mac and cheese is rich and indulgent.

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce, maintaining the perfect bite in every forkful.

• Season gradually: Start by adding small amounts of seasoning. You can always adjust to taste as you mix in the cheeses, helping you achieve a balanced flavor without overpowering the dish.

• Heat brisket gently: When warming up the brisket, do so on medium heat to avoid drying it out. This keeps it juicy and flavorful, enhancing the overall taste of your mac and cheese.

• Experiment with toppings: Beyond onion strings, consider adding sliced jalapeños or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of flavor and color. These additions can make your dish visually appealing and exciting to eat!

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Presenting your Brisket Mac and Cheese can be just as delightful as preparing it! Here are some fun ideas to make serving this dish special.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkling fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
• Crispy fried shallots: These add a crunchy texture and an irresistible savory element that enhances each bite.
• Smoky paprika: A light dusting not only adds a beautiful color contrast but also infuses a subtle smokiness that pairs wonderfully with both brisket and BBQ sauce.

Side Dishes

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring color and nutrition to your plate while balancing out the richness of the main dish.
• Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover mac and cheese sauce, plus it adds another layer of flavor that everyone loves.
• Corn on the cob: Sweet corn on the cob drizzled with lime juice or butter makes for an iconic side that’s simple yet satisfying alongside your hearty meal.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Brisket Mac and Cheese! Each serving will surely delight family or friends at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brisket Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let the mac and cheese cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, if necessary.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish. Heat at 50% power, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Brisket Mac and Cheese that might help you out!

Can I use different types of cheese for Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While white cheddar and sharp cheddar provide great flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a twist on this classic dish.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, Brisket Mac and Cheese can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving!

Can I make Brisket Mac and Cheese without heavy cream?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with more whole milk or a non-dairy alternative such as coconut milk or almond milk.

Is Brisket Mac and Cheese suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it can be made ahead of time, stored, and reheated easily throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Brisket Mac and Cheese as much as I do! It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor—perfect for sharing with family or friends. Don’t hesitate to make this dish your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking, and may your meals always be filled with love!