If you have a craving for something rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine tender, smoky brisket mingling with creamy, dreamy mac and cheese that’s loaded with sharp and white cheddar cheeses, all elevated by a subtle kick of spices and a hint of barbecue sauce. This dish is the perfect comfort food that feels indulgent yet approachable, making it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. Once you try this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe, it will become one of those unforgettable meals you keep coming back to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in its simple, carefully chosen ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each item brings something special to the table, from the creamy richness of the dairy to the smoky, meaty punch of the brisket.
- 16 ounces pipe rigate pasta or shells: These shapes hold onto the cheese sauce perfectly, giving each bite a creamy coating.
- 2 ½ cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth cheese sauce base.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Responsible for that luxurious, velvety texture mac and cheese needs.
- 1 cup vegetable broth: Brings a subtle depth without overpowering the cheese flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory warmth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a mild sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning: A flavorful Cajun blend that gives a gentle kick and smokiness.
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard: Sharpens the cheese flavors and adds subtle heat.
- ½ teaspoon turmeric: Offers a golden hue and mild earthiness.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for a bit of spice and balance.
- 2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded: Creamy and mild, key for a balanced cheese blend.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Brings that signature tangy sharpness essential for mac and cheese.
- 2 cups leftover beef brisket, shredded: Smoky, tender, and juicy – the star protein of this dish.
- ¼ cup beef broth: Used to warm the brisket and intensify meaty flavors.
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy flair that pairs perfectly with brisket.
- Crispy onion strings: An optional crunchy topping that adds texture contrast.
How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and return it to the pot. This ensures the pasta is ready to absorb all the delicious cheese sauce we’ll be adding soon.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Slowly add the shredded white and sharp cheddar cheeses, stirring constantly until everything is melted into a luscious sauce. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken just right.
Step 3: Heat the Brisket
While the cheese sauce is doing its magic, take a separate pot and combine the shredded leftover beef brisket with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the brisket is heated through and coated in the tangy sauce. This step ensures each bite is tender and juicy.
Step 4: Assemble the Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
Now for the best part — take a generous scoop of the cheesy pasta and spoon it into your serving bowl. Top it with the warm, saucy brisket. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a little extra barbecue sauce on top for that perfect tang. For added crunch and a burst of extra flavor, sprinkle on crispy onion strings. Serve immediately and prepare for some serious yum!
How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnish can take this dish to the next level. Crispy onion strings are a personal favorite because they add a delightful crunch and a sweet, caramelized flavor that balances the creamy richness. You could also sprinkle on some fresh chopped parsley or scallions for a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This robust Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t compete with its bold flavors. Try a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. If you want to stay in the indulgent zone, consider creamy coleslaw or baked beans for a true Southern-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by serving this mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a cozy, rustic feel. For gatherings, turn it into a layered casserole with the brisket tucked inside between cheese layers, then sprinkle crispy onion strings on top just before serving for maximum impact.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, the flavors will be just as comforting the second time around.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if you want to enjoy it later. Put it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the creamy texture and smoky brisket taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low-medium heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in a splash of milk or broth if the mac and cheese feels thick or dry. This will help revive the creaminess and bring the whole dish back to life without overcooking the pasta or drying out the brisket.
FAQs
Can I use fresh brisket or only leftover brisket for this recipe?
While the recipe works best with leftover shredded brisket because it’s already cooked and tender, you can certainly use freshly cooked brisket. Just make sure to cook it slow and low until tender before shredding and combining it with the mac and cheese.
What types of cheese work best for Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe?
A blend of sharp and white cheddar cheeses is ideal for the classic creamy and tangy flavor profile. However, feel free to experiment with smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a little mozzarella for different texture and depth.
Is this recipe spicy? Can I adjust the heat?
The dish has a mild kick thanks to the Slap Ya Mama® seasoning and black pepper, but it’s not overly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat by reducing or omitting the seasoning or adding some crushed red pepper for more heat if desired.
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheese sauce a few hours ahead, but it’s best to combine it with the pasta and brisket just before serving to keep the perfect creamy texture. If the sauce thickens too much, just stir in a splash of milk when reheating.
What’s the best way to get crispy onion strings?
If you can’t find pre-made crispy onion strings, you can quickly make your own by thinly slicing onions, coating them in seasoned flour, and frying until golden brown and crisp. They add fantastic texture and a bit of sweetness to your Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe is such a warm hug on a plate, combining smoky, savory brisket with the ultimate creamy mac and cheese. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and leaves everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own go-to comfort meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender shredded beef brisket with creamy, cheesy pasta for a comforting and flavorful dish. With a blend of white and sharp cheddar cheeses simmered in milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth, plus a mix of savory spices, this recipe delivers rich taste and satisfying texture. Topped with barbecue sauce and crispy onion strings, it’s an indulgent twist on classic mac and cheese perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounce pipe rigate pasta or shells (organic pipe rigate recommended)
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
Brisket
- 2 cups leftover beef brisket, shredded
- ¼ cup beef broth
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
Toppings
- Crispy onion strings (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the pipe rigate pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and return the pasta to the pot to prepare for the cheese sauce.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Add whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth to the pot with the pasta. Stir gently to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Gradually stir in the shredded white and sharp cheddar cheeses until completely melted and smooth. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken and develop flavor.
- Heat Brisket: While the cheese sauce simmers, take a separate pot or small saucepan and combine the shredded leftover beef brisket with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Heat this mixture over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the brisket is warmed through and infused with the sauce.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon a generous portion of the creamy mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top each serving with the hot shredded brisket mixture, and drizzle additional barbecue sauce on top for extra flavor. Optionally, garnish with crispy onion strings to add a crunchy texture and an appealing finish. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked brisket for convenience and richer flavor; fresh cooked brisket can be used but may require longer heating time.
- Adjust the amount of barbecue sauce to suit your preferred level of tanginess and sweetness.
- Slap Ya Mama® seasoning can be substituted with another Cajun or Creole seasoning blend for similar spice.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or reduce heavy cream amount.
- Crispy onion strings add texture but can be omitted if unavailable or to reduce calories.
