Get ready to dive into a comforting hug of flavors with this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe that perfectly marries creamy, cheesy pasta with tender, smoky beef brisket. Whether you’re looking to impress at a family dinner or simply craving a hearty, soul-satisfying meal, this dish brings together the best of rich cheeses, luscious sauce, and savory brisket in a way that feels both indulgent and homey. The blend of seasonings and that little hint of barbecue sauce create layers of taste that will have you coming back for more every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe starts with a handful of straightforward ingredients, each adding its own unique touch. From the creamy cheeses that give you that velvety texture to the perfectly seasoned brisket, these essentials come together for an unforgettable dish.
- 16 oz pipe rigate pasta or shells: Ideal for trapping every bit of that luscious cheese sauce.
- 2 ½ cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth sauce base.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Elevates richness, making the mac and cheese ultra decadent.
- 1 cup vegetable broth: Adds subtle depth and balances the dairy flavors.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives a gentle savory punch throughout the dish.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor complexity without overpowering.
- 1 tsp Slap Ya Mama® seasoning: Brings a delightful Southern kick of spices.
- ½ tsp ground mustard: Adds a slight tang and sharpness to the cheese sauce.
- ½ tsp turmeric: Provides a warm color and subtle earthiness.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Freshly cracked for a gentle heat that ties it all together.
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese: Creamy and mellow, perfect for melting.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Punches up boldness and sharp flavor.
- 2 cups leftover beef brisket, shredded: The star protein that brings smoky richness.
- ¼ cup beef broth: Keeps the brisket juicy and flavorful when reheated.
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce: Adds tangy sweetness and enhances the brisket’s smoky profile.
- Optional: crispy onion strings for topping: Crunchy texture contrast that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin with perfectly cooked pasta, following the package directions for al dente texture—this ensures the noodles hold up beautifully under all that creamy goodness. Drain it well and return the pasta to its pot, ready to soak up that cheesy sauce later.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Next, add the milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth to the pot with the pasta, stirring gently as you bring the mixture to a simmer. This combo creates the silky base that your cheese will melt into. Gradually stir in the shredded white and sharp cheddar cheeses, working patiently until every shred has melted into a luxuriously smooth sauce. To deepen the flavors, sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Let the sauce mingle and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes while stirring occasionally—this step is key to developing that crave-worthy depth of flavor.
Step 3: Heat the Brisket
While your sauce simmers, warm up the shredded leftover brisket in a separate pot by combining it with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Heat over medium for 3 to 4 minutes until the meat is hot and juicy, perfectly complemented by the tangy barbecue notes that echo through the dish.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Spoon generous portions of the mac and cheese into serving bowls, then crown each with a hearty helping of the warm brisket. If you want to dial up the flavor, drizzle a little additional barbecue sauce on top. For the final touch, sprinkle crispy onion strings to add a delightful crunch that balances the creamy textures. Serve scrumptiously hot and watch smiles light up across the table.
How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling crispy onion strings or fried shallots adds a beautiful crunch and a burst of flavor that contrasts the creamy mac and cheese perfectly. Fresh chopped parsley or chives also bring a pop of color and a hint of brightness that complements the rich brisket.
Side Dishes
To round out this hearty meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus. The acidity and freshness of these sides help balance the indulgent richness of the Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe, giving the palate a refreshing lift.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual cast iron skillets or hollowed-out bread bowls, which make an impressive presentation for guests. Consider layering the mac and cheese with brisket in a baking dish and broiling the top until golden and bubbly for an irresistible crust. The Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe can truly shine in so many creative ways!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before storing to preserve that creamy texture and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, this dish freezes well. Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that freezing may slightly change the texture of the pasta, so it’s best to enjoy within that window.
Reheating
When reheating, the secret is gentle heat. Warm it up in a skillet over low to medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to bring back that creamy consistency without drying out the brisket or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use fresh brisket instead of leftover brisket?
Absolutely! If you have fresh brisket, cook it low and slow first until it’s tender, then shred and use it just like the leftover version for the best flavor and texture balance in this recipe.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Pipe rigate or shells are perfect because their shapes hold the cheese sauce beautifully. However, elbow macaroni or cavatappi can also work wonderfully if you can’t find those.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or swap out the Slap Ya Mama® seasoning for a hotter Cajun blend to give your Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe some extra kick.
Can I freeze this dish after assembling with brisket?
It’s best to freeze the mac and cheese separately from the brisket and barbecue sauce to maintain optimal texture. Then combine when reheating to enjoy the freshest flavors.
What can I use instead of barbecue sauce?
If you want to switch things up, try using a smoky chipotle sauce or a tangy tomato-based sauce for different flavor profiles that still complement the brisket beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe, it will become a go-to comfort food in your kitchen. The harmony between cheesy sauce and juicy brisket is nothing short of spectacular, perfect for cozying up any night of the week. Don’t hesitate to make it your own and watch how quickly it disappears from the plate!
Print
Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and indulgent dish combining creamy mac and cheese with tender shredded beef brisket, enhanced by a blend of flavorful spices and topped with optional crispy onion strings for added texture. Perfect for a comforting meal that satisfies both mac and cheese lovers and barbecue fans alike.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 oz pipe rigate pasta or shells
Cheese Sauce
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
- ½ tsp ground mustard
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Brisket Topping
- 2 cups leftover beef brisket, shredded
- ¼ cup beef broth
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
Optional Topping
- crispy onion strings for topping
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and return the pasta to the pot to prepare for the sauce.
- Make Cheese Sauce: To the cooked pasta in the pot, add whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine everything, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Gradually add the shredded white and sharp cheddar cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Heat Brisket: In a medium saucepan, combine the shredded leftover beef brisket with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until the brisket is warmed through and the sauce is heated, stirring occasionally.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top each serving with a generous portion of the heated brisket. Optionally, drizzle with extra barbecue sauce if desired and garnish with crispy onion strings for a crunchy texture. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Notes
- Use leftover brisket for best flavor and convenience.
- Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of Slap Ya Mama® seasoning according to your preference.
- For a smokier taste, add a dash of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
- Crispy onion strings add a delightful crunch but can be omitted for a gluten-free version.
- Ensure cheeses are shredded freshly for smoother melting and creamier sauce.
