Brisket Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a comforting and indulgent dish that brings smiles to the dinner table, you’ve found it with this Brisket Mac and Cheese! This recipe combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender shredded beef brisket, making it a hearty meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s always a hit at potlucks, and I promise your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

What makes this dish so special is not just its rich flavors but also the memories it creates. Picture everyone gathered around, laughing and sharing stories while digging into this delicious bowl of warmth. Trust me; it’ll become a favorite in your household before you know it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this dish without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy pasta topped with savory brisket!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this in advance and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavor-packed: The blend of cheeses and seasonings gives each bite a delightful burst of flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this mouthwatering Brisket Mac and Cheese. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

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® 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

One of the best things about Brisket Mac and Cheese is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If brisket isn’t available, try using pulled chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavor twists.
• Add some veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli or spinach to sneak in some greens!
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for 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 it’s al dente. Drain it well and then return it to the pot. This step ensures that your pasta has just the right texture to hold all that creamy cheese!

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Pour in the milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth into the pot with the pasta. Stir everything together gently and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. This warming process helps combine all those lovely flavors.

Step 3: Melt in the Cheeses

Slowly stir in both types of grated cheese until they melt completely into that luscious sauce. Mixing well is key here—this way, every bit of pasta gets coated in cheesy goodness!

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Mix everything well again! These seasonings add depth and warmth to your mac and cheese.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Let your mac and cheese simmer for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Heat Up the Brisket

In a medium pot, combine shredded brisket with beef broth and barbecue sauce over medium heat. Stir well until heated through—this will give your brisket a nice glaze while adding more flavor.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Spoon generous portions of mac and cheese into bowls. Top each serving with warm brisket and drizzle with barbecue sauce for that finishing touch. Serve immediately for everyone to enjoy!

Step 8: Optional Crunch

For an extra layer of texture, feel free to top off each bowl with crispy onion strings if you like a little crunch on top!

Enjoy making this Brisket Mac and Cheese! I can’t wait for you to take your first bite—it’s pure comfort food bliss!

Pro Tips for Making Brisket Mac and Cheese

Making Brisket Mac and Cheese is a fun and creative endeavor, and these tips will help ensure your dish turns out perfect!

• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly shredding your cheese ensures a creamy and luscious sauce.

• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing your cheese mixture to simmer gently helps the flavors meld beautifully. This extra time enhances the overall taste of the mac and cheese.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Every palate is different! Taste your mixture before adding the brisket to make sure it’s just right for you. Feel free to tweak the spices as needed.

• Experiment with different cheeses: While this recipe calls for white cheddar and sharp cheddar, feel free to mix in other varieties like gouda or pepper jack for an exciting twist on flavor.

• Make it ahead of time: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Simply reheat it gently in the oven for a quick meal during busy nights.

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Serving Brisket Mac and Cheese is about more than just putting it on a plate; it’s an opportunity to make it visually appealing and enhance its flavors with thoughtful pairings.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Crumbled crispy onion strings: These add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese, elevating each bite.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy a little spice, sliced jalapeños can bring an exciting kick to your dish without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic side complements mac and cheese perfectly, providing a crunchy texture alongside its buttery flavor.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta. The crunchiness adds another layer of texture.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like carrots or broccoli, provide color and nutrients while balancing out the meal’s heaviness.
• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings together savory flavors with its creamy dressing, making it a great pairing with your hearty macaroni dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress everyone at your table with this delightful Brisket Mac and Cheese! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about Brisket Mac and Cheese is how perfect it is for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious creation fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mac and cheese in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of milk for creaminess, or bake in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Stir occasionally during reheating to ensure even warming.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Brisket Mac and Cheese, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

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

Absolutely! While white cheddar and sharp cheddar are great choices, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist.

How can I make Brisket Mac and Cheese spicier?

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper over the top before serving for an added spice layer.

What sides pair well with Brisket Mac and Cheese?

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Coleslaw also makes a refreshing side that complements the richness of the mac and cheese!

How long does it take to prepare Brisket Mac and Cheese?

The total time for this recipe is around 30 minutes, making it a quick option for lunch or dinner any day of the week.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily adjust this recipe by replacing brisket with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables while keeping all other ingredients as they are.

Final Thoughts

Brisket Mac and Cheese is truly a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and creamy textures in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, I hope this recipe becomes one of your favorites. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings or sides! Enjoy making this delightful meal, and I can’t wait for you to try it!