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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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.