Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, featuring tender beef brisket, crispy onion strings, and a drizzle of zesty BBQ sauce. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in, this dish combines creamy cheese with robust flavors that will satisfy any palate. With its rich texture and comforting appeal, Brisket Mac and Cheese is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of white cheddar and sharp cheddar cheeses creates a creamy and flavorful base that pairs perfectly with the savory brisket.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish in just 30 minutes!
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for dinner or lunch, this recipe can be customized with your favorite toppings or side dishes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings or family meals, everyone will love digging into this hearty dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smoother, having the right tools is essential. Below are some tools that will help you prepare Brisket Mac and Cheese efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for cooking the pasta while allowing enough space to mix in the creamy cheese sauce.
• Medium pot: Ideal for heating the brisket mixture without crowding ingredients.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps in stirring ingredients gently without scratching your pots.

Ingredients

For this delicious Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Pasta

• 16 ounce pipe rigate pasta (or shells)

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

Cheese & Meats

• 2 cups white cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 2 cups leftover beef brisket (shredded)

Sauces

• 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 pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain it well 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 and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 3: Add Cheeses

Slowly stir in both types of shredded cheese until they melt completely into a creamy sauce.

Step 4: Season It Up

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

Step 5: Simmer

Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 6: Heat Up the Brisket

In a medium pot, add shredded brisket along with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Stir well over medium heat until heated through (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 7: Combine & Serve

Spoon generous portions of mac and cheese into bowls. Top each serving with brisket pieces and drizzle with additional barbecue sauce. Serve immediately!

Optional Topping

For added crunch, consider topping your dish with crispy onion strings for a delightful texture contrast!

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 dinner party or having a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

For a Casual Family Dinner

• Serve in Bowls: Spoon the mac and cheese into individual bowls for easy serving. Top with brisket and drizzle barbecue sauce.
• Garnish with Green Onions: Add chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness.

At a Festive Gathering

• Buffet Style: Set up a buffet with large platters of Brisket Mac and Cheese. Let guests serve themselves, allowing them to customize their toppings.
• Crispy Onion Strings: Offer crispy onion strings as an optional topping for added crunch.

Perfect for Game Day

• Single-Serve Cups: Use small cups or ramekins for individual servings. This makes it easy for guests to grab-and-go during the game.
• Pair with Finger Foods: Serve alongside appetizers like chicken wings or sliders for a complete game day feast.

How to Perfect Brisket Mac and Cheese

To make sure your Brisket Mac and Cheese turns out delicious every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Quality Cheese: Choose high-quality cheeses for better flavor and creaminess.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is slightly undercooked before mixing with the cheese sauce, as it will continue to cook in the oven if you choose to bake it.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding smoked paprika can enhance the BBQ flavor.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Brisket Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with Brisket Mac and Cheese can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the creamy mac and cheese perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: Offers a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted carrots or broccoli add healthy color and nutrients.
4. Caesar Salad: A crisp salad provides a nice contrast to the warm comfort food.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds texture and sweetness that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
6. Baked Beans: Their smoky flavor complements the brisket while adding more protein to your meal.
7. Pickles: Serving pickles on the side introduces acidity, which can cut through the richness of mac and cheese.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for a satisfying addition that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brisket Mac and Cheese, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Always follow the package directions and aim for al dente.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can throw off the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the simmering step: Allowing the cheese sauce to simmer helps develop rich flavors. Skipping this can result in a bland taste.
• Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheese may not melt well, affecting texture. Opt for good quality cheddar cheese for the best result.
• Neglecting seasoning: Seasoning is key for flavor. Don’t skip on spices like garlic powder and black pepper; they enhance the overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Brisket Mac and Cheese

• Use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Brisket Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Brisket Mac and Cheese:

What type of pasta is best for Brisket Mac and Cheese?

You can use pipe rigate or shells. Both shapes hold cheese sauce well, enhancing each bite.

Can I substitute the beef brisket?

Yes! You can use shredded chicken or turkey as an alternative protein option that still offers great flavor.

How do I make my Brisket Mac and Cheese creamier?

Adding more heavy cream or cheese during cooking will give your dish a richer texture.

Is there a vegetarian version of Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Replace brisket with sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables, keeping all other ingredients the same.

Final Thoughts

Brisket Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines creamy cheese with tender brisket, making it perfect for any meal. Experiment with different toppings or proteins to customize it to your taste. Enjoy this delicious recipe at your next family gathering!