Brisket Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place with this Brisket Mac and Cheese! This dish is a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with tender beef brisket. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying or for those family gatherings where everyone wants to dig into something delicious.

What makes this Brisket Mac and Cheese truly special is how it brings people together around the table. The rich flavors, creamy texture, and savory brisket make it an instant hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying precious moments with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love the creamy cheese paired with savory brisket.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance for an effortless meal on busy days.
• Endless Flavor: The combination of cheeses and seasonings creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Customizable Toppings: Add crispy onion strings or your favorite garnishes for extra crunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Brisket Mac and Cheese, you’ll need a mix of creamy dairy products, flavorful spices, and delicious pasta. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta Base

• 16 ounces pipe rigate pasta (or shells; we used organic pipe rigate)
• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup vegetable broth

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama®
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheesy Goodness

• 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 super flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded chicken or turkey instead of brisket for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to give it a kick!

How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook your pipe rigate pasta according to package directions. Once done, drain it well and return it to the pot. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it holds its shape when mixed with the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth. Stir gently to combine everything before bringing it to a simmer over medium heat. This creamy base is key—it’s what makes every bite of mac and cheese feel indulgent.

Step 3: Melt in the Cheeses

Slowly add in both types of shredded cheese while stirring continuously. Mixing them in slowly allows them to melt evenly, creating that luscious cheesy sauce we all crave!

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in your garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama®, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir! This step is essential because seasonings bring out all those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Simmer Together

Let your mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally. This lets all those flavors meld beautifully together—trust me; it’s worth waiting just a bit longer!

Step 6: Heat Up the Brisket

In a medium pot, heat your leftover shredded brisket along with beef broth and barbecue sauce over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through. This adds depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with your mac and cheese.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Spoon generous portions of your mac and cheese into bowls. Top each serving with warm brisket and drizzle some barbecue sauce over everything. Serve immediately while it’s hot!

Step 8: Optional Crunch!

For that extra touch of delight, feel free to top with crispy onion strings! They add a wonderful crunch that takes your dish over the top.

Now you’ve got yourself a hearty meal that will surely impress anyone who tries it! Enjoy every cheesy bite of your Brisket Mac and Cheese!

Pro Tips for Making Brisket Mac and Cheese

Creating the perfect Brisket Mac and Cheese is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends!

• Use high-quality cheeses: Opting for fresh, good-quality cheeses will enhance the creaminess and flavor of your mac and cheese. A combination of white cheddar and sharp cheddar provides a great depth of flavor.

• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking your pasta just until it’s al dente will prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the creamy cheese sauce. This texture contrast is essential for a satisfying bite.

• Stir continuously while melting cheese: To avoid clumps, keep stirring the cheese mixture as it melts. This ensures a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta beautifully.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices in this recipe to suit your taste. A dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add an exciting kick that complements the brisket perfectly.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste experience.

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Serving Brisket Mac and Cheese can be just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this comforting dish into something truly special.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped chives or parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crispy onion strings: These not only add crunch but also enhance the overall flavor profile by introducing a savory element.
• Extra barbecue sauce drizzle: A light drizzle on top just before serving enhances both presentation and flavor, inviting everyone to dig in!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread brings a crispy texture and garlic flavor that pairs wonderfully with creamy mac and cheese.

• Coleslaw: This crunchy side offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese. The tangy dressing cuts through the creaminess beautifully.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies not only add color to your plate but also provide a nutritious balance. Think bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus seasoned with olive oil.

• Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette can lighten up your meal. The acidity of the dressing complements the heavy cheese sauce perfectly.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas at your disposal, get ready to enjoy a deliciously hearty Brisket Mac and Cheese experience! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious meals ready whenever you need them.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just ensure they melt well to create that creamy texture you’re looking for.

How do I add more flavor to my Brisket Mac and Cheese?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like smoked paprika or incorporating sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or jalapeños.

Can I make this Brisket Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep; just follow the storage instructions above to keep it fresh.

What can I serve alongside Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance out the rich flavors of the mac and cheese.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Brisket Mac and Cheese! It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Enjoy every cheesy bite, and happy cooking!