Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a mouthwatering twist on the classic comfort food. This dish combines creamy cheese sauce with tender beef brisket, making it perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply a cozy night in. The layers of flavor from the cheeses, spices, and BBQ sauce create a rich experience that will delight anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of white cheddar and sharp cheddar creates a luxurious cheese sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or potlucks; it suits any occasion.
• Leftover Friendly: Utilize leftover brisket to make this dish even more economical and delicious.
• Comforting Meal: This dish serves as the ultimate comfort food that warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Brisket Mac and Cheese, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium pot
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta and combining ingredients without overcrowding.
• Medium pot: Useful for heating brisket with broth and BBQ sauce evenly.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate quantities for consistent results every time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Brisket Mac and Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Pasta

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

Dairy & Broth

• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup vegetable broth

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama®
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Cheeses

• 2 cups white cheddar cheese, (shredded)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, (shredded)

Brisket & Sauces

• 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 until al dente. Drain the pasta 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. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Slowly stir in both types of grated cheeses until they melt completely into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama®, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce

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

Step 6: Heat Up Brisket Mixture

Place shredded brisket into a medium pot. Add beef broth and barbecue sauce. Stir well and heat over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until hot.

Step 7: Assemble Your Dish

Spoon generous portions of mac and cheese into bowls. Top each serving with warmed brisket mixture and drizzle with additional barbecue sauce if desired. Serve immediately.

Step 8: Optional Garnish

For an extra crunch, consider topping with crispy onion strings before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Brisket Mac and Cheese!

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or preparing a festive meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Individual Bowls

• Serve each guest their own bowl of Brisket Mac and Cheese for a personalized touch. This makes it easy for everyone to enjoy their meal without sharing.

Family Style

• Present a large serving bowl in the center of the table. Let guests help themselves, creating a communal atmosphere perfect for gatherings.

Garnished Plates

• Plate individual servings with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or green onions on top for added color and flavor. This simple step can enhance the visual appeal.

With Crispy Onion Strings

• Top each serving with crispy onion strings for an extra crunch. This adds texture that complements the creamy mac and cheese beautifully.

Drizzled BBQ Sauce

• Add an extra drizzle of barbecue sauce on top just before serving. It enhances the flavor profile and adds a nice finish to the dish.

How to Perfect Brisket Mac and Cheese

Making Brisket Mac and Cheese is simple, but there are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Use quality cheese: Opt for high-quality cheddar cheeses for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
• Cook pasta al dente: Under-cook the pasta slightly as it will continue to cook when mixed with the cheese sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick!
• Mix in vegetables: Consider adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let your mac and cheese sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps thicken the sauce and improves overall consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Brisket Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with Brisket Mac and Cheese can enhance your meal’s flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread
   The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread complements the creamy mac and cheese perfectly.

2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast that balances the richness of the mac and cheese.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color, flavor, and nutrition to your meal while being easy to prepare alongside the main dish.

4. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with savory dishes like brisket mac and cheese, offering a delightful combination of flavors.

5. Green Salad
   A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of mac and cheese, making for a well-rounded plate.

6. Pickles
   Serving pickles on the side adds an unexpected tanginess that can brighten up each bite of cheesy goodness.

7. Baked Beans
   Hearty baked beans provide additional protein while complementing the smoky flavors of brisket.

8. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly grilled asparagus adds elegance to your meal while providing freshness that pairs well with comfort food like mac and cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brisket Mac and Cheese, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can compromise your dish.

• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking the pasta for too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Using low-quality cheese – Low-quality cheese won’t melt well and can affect the flavor. Use good quality white cheddar and sharp cheddar for the best results.
• Skipping the seasoning – Seasoning is key! Don’t forget to add garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices to enhance flavor.
• Not letting it simmer long enough – A short simmer may not allow flavors to meld properly. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally.
• Neglecting to heat the brisket properly – Cold brisket won’t blend well with warm mac and cheese. Always heat it with broth and BBQ sauce before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Brisket Mac and Cheese can be kept for up to 3 days.

Freezing Brisket Mac and Cheese

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• It’s best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Brisket Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until hot throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl covered with a damp paper towel. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring each time until heated through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brisket Mac and Cheese.

How do I make my Brisket Mac and Cheese creamier?

You can add more heavy cream or milk while reheating. Stirring in additional cheese can also enhance creaminess.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can mix different types of cheeses such as gouda or Monterey jack for unique flavors in your Brisket Mac and Cheese.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the brisket and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.

What sides pair well with Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread are great sides that complement this hearty dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a delightful combination of creamy pasta and tender beef brisket that makes for a satisfying meal. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or using different cheeses. This recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough for various occasions – give it a try!