If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in cheesy, smoky comfort with every bite, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe. It brings together tender shredded brisket and three types of melted cheeses enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, making it a soul-satisfying meal ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. The blend of smoky paprika and garlic spices leveled up with creamy gouda and sharp cheddar creates a harmony of flavors that’s utterly irresistible. Trust me, once you make this brisket mac and cheese, it will quickly become your go-to comfort food favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully balanced ingredients. Each adds an essential layer to the final dish — from creamy cheeses to smoky spices, to tender brisket, every component matters for that perfect taste and texture.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape for maximum cheesy sauce cling and bite.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides a rich base to start the roux and adds smoothness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce into that luscious, creamy texture we’re after.
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed: Helps create a silky cheese sauce; warming prevents lumps.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds decadent richness that makes every spoonful velvety and indulgent.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings bold, sharp flavor that defines traditional mac and cheese.
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese: Contributes a smoky, creamy note that pairs perfectly with brisket.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers gooey meltiness and mellow taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dish with a gentle aromatic warmth.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle savory depth without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives an extra whisper of smokiness complementing the brisket.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups cooked brisket, chopped or shredded: The star protein, tender and smoky for unbeatable heartiness.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional): Creates a crunchy topping if you prefer a baked finish.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional): Used with breadcrumbs for a golden, crisp crust.
How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente — perfect for soaking up that cheesy sauce without turning mushy. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside to wait for its cheesy transformation.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour. Keep whisking as it cooks for about one minute until it’s light golden — this roux is the secret to a creamy, lump-free sauce. Slowly pour in the warmed whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until thickened into a velvety sauce.
Step 3: Melt in the Cheese and Seasonings
Lower the heat and stir in the sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and mozzarella cheeses, one handful at a time, until everything is melted into one irresistible sauce. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to make those flavors sing and perfectly season the cheesy base.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Brisket
Fold the cooked macaroni and tender, shredded brisket gently into the cheese sauce. Make sure every noodle is coated and every bite will have that smoky, cheesy goodness evenly distributed. This step is where all the flavors come together in delicious harmony.
Step 5: Optional Baking for a Crispy Finish
If you love a crunchy topping, transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle generously over the top, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes until it’s bubbling and the crust turns golden brown. This adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy inside.
How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a refreshing note to cut through the richness. Sprinkle a little extra smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce if you like a touch of heat that wakes up your taste buds.
Side Dishes
Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with simple green salads, roasted vegetables, or even tangy coleslaw. These sides add balance, contrasting the cheesy richness with crisp or bright flavors, making your meal feel well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it straight from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe or plate individual portions in small ramekins topped with fresh herbs for a dinner party feel. You might also scoop it into baked bell peppers or stuff it into a warm bread bowl to impress guests with fun presentation ideas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover brisket mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It holds up well and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors fully meld.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry to restore that creamy, cozy consistency we love so much.
FAQs
Can I use leftover brisket for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover brisket works perfectly and adds wonderful smoky flavor, making this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe a great way to repurpose delicious cooked meat.
Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?
Baking is optional but recommended if you enjoy a crispy topping. You can skip baking and serve directly from the stovetop for extra creamy indulgence.
Can I substitute cheeses?
Yes, but try to keep a combination of sharp, smoky, and melty cheeses to maintain the character of the dish. Cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella complement brisket beautifully.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mildly smoky and savory with just a hint of warmth from smoked paprika. You can always add more spice or hot sauce for extra kick according to your taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs, but you can substitute gluten-free flour and omit breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep it gluten-free without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe is a true comfort food champion — rich, smoky, cheesy, and satisfying in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, it’s a warm, hearty dish that never fails to impress. Give it a try soon and watch it become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire.
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Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Brisket Mac and Cheese is a rich and comforting dish combining creamy cheese sauce with tender, smoky brisket and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Enhanced with a blend of sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and mozzarella cheeses, and seasoned with garlic, onion, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, this recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful meal. Optionally baked with a buttery breadcrumb topping, it’s the perfect family-friendly main course with a Southern twist.
Ingredients
Macaroni and Cheese Base
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Brisket
- 2 cups cooked brisket, chopped or shredded
Optional Topping
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Make Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and fragrant.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the warm whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and mozzarella cheeses until melted and fully incorporated into a creamy sauce. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Macaroni and Brisket: Fold the cooked macaroni and chopped brisket into the cheese sauce, mixing until everything is evenly coated with the cheesy goodness.
- Optional Baking Step: If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle evenly over the top of the dish. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is golden and the dish is bubbly.
- Serve: Serve the brisket mac and cheese hot, straight from the skillet for a creamy experience or from the oven for a crispy topping.
Notes
- Smoked brisket imparts the best smoky flavor, but leftover slow-cooked brisket also works beautifully.
- You can skip the baking step and serve it straight from the stovetop for an extra creamy and saucy texture.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
