Brisket Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings the family together, then Brisket Mac and Cheese is the answer! This recipe combines creamy macaroni and cheese with tender beef brisket, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish has become a beloved favorite in my home. Just imagine spooning out a hearty bowl of cheesy goodness topped with savory brisket—it’s pure comfort food!

Not only is this Brisket Mac and Cheese delicious, but it also makes for great leftovers. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy cheese and tender brisket combo.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and easy ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to eat!
• Flavor-packed: The combination of cheeses and spices creates a rich, mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Gather these up for a delightful meal that warms the heart!

• 16 ounce pipe rigate pasta (or shells)
• 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)
• 2 cups leftover beef brisket (shredded)
• ¼ cup beef broth
• ¼ cup barbecue sauce

Variations

The beauty of Brisket Mac and Cheese is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on what you like or have available.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded chicken or even smoked tofu for a different protein twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!

How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain it well, then return it to the pot. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta will be wonderfully chewy against the creamy sauce.

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 while bringing it to a simmer. This creamy mixture is what makes this dish so inviting—richness is key here!

Step 3: Melt in the Cheeses

Slowly add both types of shredded cheese into the pot. Mix well until all the cheese has melted into that glorious creamy sauce. This step ensures every bite of mac and cheese is ooey-gooey deliciousness.

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in your garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. These spices add layers of flavor that elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Allow your mac and cheese mixture to simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps all those flavors meld together beautifully while thickening up your sauce.

Step 6: Heat Up the Brisket

In a medium pot, combine your leftover shredded brisket with beef broth and barbecue sauce over medium heat. Stir well and let it heat up for about 3-4 minutes until hot. This step adds that wonderful smoky flavor from the barbecue sauce—it’s truly irresistible!

Step 7: Assemble Your Dish

Spoon generous portions of mac and cheese into bowls. Top each serving with warm brisket and drizzle more barbecue sauce over the top. Serve immediately! The warm toppings contrast delightfully with the cheesy base.

Step 8: Optional Crunch

For an extra touch, consider adding crispy onion strings on top just before serving! They provide a delightful crunch that complements all that creaminess perfectly.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish! Whether it’s dinner or lunch, Brisket Mac and Cheese will leave everyone smiling at your table.

Pro Tips for Making Brisket Mac and Cheese

Making Brisket Mac and Cheese can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use high-quality cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged options. This will melt better and give your mac and cheese a creamier texture.

• Don’t rush the simmering process: Allow the mixture to simmer properly after adding the seasonings. This step helps develop deeper flavors in the dish.

• Customize your seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile even more.

• Make it ahead of time: If you’re prepping for a gathering, you can assemble everything up to baking ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

• Experiment with different pasta shapes: While pipe rigate works wonderfully, other shapes like cavatappi or macaroni can provide unique textures that hold onto the cheese sauce beautifully.

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Serving Brisket Mac and Cheese is all about presentation! Here are some creative ideas to make this dish shine on your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Crispy onion strings: Adding fried onion strings on top provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños can elevate your dish with an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a healthy touch and complement the hearty mac and cheese beautifully.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing offers a crunchy contrast that pairs well with this rich dish.
• Garlic bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness left on your plate—truly irresistible!
• Garden salad: A light garden salad dressed in vinaigrette rounds out the meal nicely, providing a fresh counterbalance to the indulgent main course.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brisket Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and enjoy its comforting flavors whenever you need a hearty meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, reheat only the portion you plan to eat at that time.

Freezing

• Let the mac and cheese cool down entirely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• For optimal texture, consider excluding crispy toppings before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish:

Can I make Brisket Mac and Cheese without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with additional whole milk or use a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

How do I store Brisket Mac and Cheese leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage.

Can I add vegetables to my Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

What type of cheese is best for Brisket Mac and Cheese?

A combination of white cheddar and sharp cheddar works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Brisket Mac and Cheese! It’s a special recipe that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures that your family will love. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this dish. Happy cooking!