Brisket Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, look no further than this Brisket Mac and Cheese. Imagine creamy pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, topped with tender, flavorful beef brisket and drizzled with BBQ sauce. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and fills your belly! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want everyone to savor every bite.

What makes this Brisket Mac and Cheese even more special is its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy cheese pairs beautifully with the smoky brisket, while the crunchy onion strings add an exciting contrast. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this indulgent recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: Who can resist mac and cheese? Add brisket, and it’s a surefire hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance, then simply heat it up when you’re ready to serve. Perfect for potlucks!
• Flavor-packed: The combination of cheeses and seasonings creates a rich, mouthwatering flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Brisket Mac and Cheese:

For the Pasta

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

For the 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

For the Topping

• 2 cups leftover beef brisket, shredded
• ¼ cup beef broth
• ¼ cup barbecue sauce

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded chicken or turkey instead of brisket for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain it well and return it to the pot. Cooking it just right ensures that your pasta will hold up well against all that creamy goodness!

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Pour in whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth into the pot with pasta. Stir gently to combine everything, then bring it all to a simmer. This mixture will create a luscious base for your cheese sauce.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Slowly stir in your grated cheeses until they melt into a beautiful cheesy blend. Mixing them in gradually helps achieve that super creamy texture we all love.

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama®, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Mix well! These seasonings will elevate your dish with layers of flavor that everyone will adore.

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Let everything simmer for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally. This step allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Heat the Brisket

In a separate medium pot, place your shredded brisket along with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Stir well and heat over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until hot. This step adds warmth and flavor to the brisket before topping your mac and cheese.

Step 7: Assemble Your Dish

Spoon generous amounts of mac and cheese into bowls, top each one with warm brisket, and drizzle with barbecue sauce. Serve immediately!

Step 8: Optional Crunchy Topping

For an added touch of crunch, feel free to top with crispy onion strings before serving!

With these simple steps, you’ll have a delightful Brisket Mac and Cheese ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Brisket Mac and Cheese

Making Brisket Mac and Cheese can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use high-quality cheese: The type of cheese you choose significantly impacts the flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality cheeses to ensure a creamy and rich texture.

• Don’t overcook the pasta: To achieve the perfect al dente texture, cook the pasta just until it’s tender but still firm. It will continue cooking in the cheese sauce, so this step is crucial for maintaining that delightful bite.

• Mix up your seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices—smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add an exciting twist to your flavor profile.

• Make it ahead: This dish can be made in advance! Prepare everything, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just reheat and enjoy a comforting meal without much fuss.

• Top with extra cheese: For an even cheesier experience, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese on top before serving. It adds a lovely melty layer that everyone will love!

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese isn’t just tasty; it’s also visually appealing! Presenting this dish beautifully can enhance the dining experience for you and your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds freshness and a pop of color that contrasts beautifully against the creamy mac and cheese.
• Fresh parsley: A handful of chopped parsley brings a vibrant green touch while providing a slight herbal note that complements the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread makes for a comforting addition that pairs perfectly with cheesy dishes.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds brightness to your plate, balancing out the richness of the brisket mac and cheese with its crisp texture.
• Steamed Broccoli: Not only does steamed broccoli add nutritional value, but its bright green color looks great next to the golden mac and cheese while offering a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a deliciously caramelized contrast to the creaminess of your main dish. Plus, they’re simple to prepare!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set for an unforgettable meal that combines comfort food with flair! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Brisket Mac and Cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brisket Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the refrigerator and can be made ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious dinner ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the mac and cheese cool down to room temperature.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may add a splash of milk or broth if it appears dry.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I use different types of pasta for Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses pipe rigate, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells or elbow macaroni.

How can I make Brisket Mac and Cheese creamy?

To ensure your Brisket Mac and Cheese stays creamy, avoid overcooking the pasta, use full-fat dairy products, and mix in cheese gradually while stirring continuously.

Can I make Brisket Mac and Cheese without brisket?

Yes! You can easily substitute brisket with shredded chicken or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option that still packs a flavorful punch.

How should I serve Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Brisket Mac and Cheese is delicious served hot right out of the pot. Top it with crispy onion strings or extra BBQ sauce for added texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Brisket Mac and Cheese is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. The combination of cheesy goodness with tender brisket is sure to impress everyone at your table. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Dive in and savor every bite—happy cooking!