If you’re craving cozy comfort food with an irresistible twist, this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. Creamy, cheesy macaroni mingles with smoky, tender brisket for a hearty dish that turns ordinary mac and cheese into a show-stopping main course. Whether you’re using up leftover BBQ or planning a special family dinner, this recipe fuses two favorites into pure magic that everyone will rush back for seconds.

Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, familiar ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary in this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe. Each one plays a starring role, contributing creamy texture, rich flavor, or a pop of color that makes every bite memorable.

Elbow macaroni (12 oz): The ultimate pasta shape for cheesy sauce—use al dente for the perfect bite.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Gives the roux its richness and depth, forming the base for our cheese sauce.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Combines with butter to thicken the sauce without any lumps.
Whole milk (2 cups): Brings smoothness and creaminess to the cheese sauce.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Makes the sauce extra luxurious and velvety.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Delivers bold, classic cheesy flavor and gorgeous color.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (1 cup): Adds meltiness and a mellow, creamy touch.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Blends in subtle savory notes that deepen the overall taste.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a gentle smokiness that echoes the flavors of the brisket.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances all the flavors—taste and adjust as needed!
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a warm, peppery kick to the cheese sauce.
Cooked brisket, chopped or shredded (2 cups): The star of the dish, bringing smoky beef goodness to every forkful.
Barbecue sauce (1/4 cup, optional): For a sweet and tangy finish that ties it all together—completely up to you.
Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle of fresh green for color and a touch of brightness.

How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Elbow Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your elbow macaroni. Stir occasionally and cook until just al dente, following the package directions. This keeps your pasta perfectly springy once it’s smothered in cheese. Drain well and set aside—you’ll want those noodles ready when the cheesiness is calling!

Step 2: Make a Creamy Roux

While your pasta drains, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk together for one to two minutes. This step makes the base of our cheese sauce, thickening things up and banishing any raw flour taste. Take a moment to inhale—it already smells like home!

Step 3: Add Dairy and Thicken Sauce

Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, making sure the mixture stays beautifully smooth. Keep stirring constantly for four to five minutes or until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. This luscious mix sets the stage for all those glorious cheeses that are coming next.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses and Spices

Lower the heat to its gentlest setting. Add the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, then stir patiently until your sauce is silky and the cheeses are fully melted. The garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper join in here—each adding a subtle note that takes the sauce from basic to absolutely craveable.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni right into the pot and stir well until every noodle is luxuriously coated. This is the moment your Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe really starts to come together: creamy, cheesy perfection with just the right balance of flavors.

Step 6: Fold in the Brisket and Barbecue Sauce

Gently fold in the chopped or shredded brisket, along with barbecue sauce if you’re feeling a bit saucy. The brisket’s smoky flavor infuses the whole pot, turning it from weeknight comfort to something truly special. Stir gently until heated through—don’t let any brisket bits get left behind!

Step 7: Final Touches and Serving

Spoon the piping-hot mac and cheese onto plates or into bowls and, if you like, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a hint of green. Dive in while it’s melty and irresistible—the best way to enjoy the Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe.

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley adds color and a clean finish, but you could also sprinkle on extra grated cheese, crispy fried onions, or sliced jalapeños for extra flair. Each garnish brings a pop of excitement and invites everyone to make their bowl their own.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but a crisp green salad or a side of tangy coleslaw makes a wonderful counterpoint to the rich, smoky flavors of the mac and cheese. Cornbread or garlic bread are also always welcome on the table—perfect for scooping up any cheesy leftovers.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress, bake the assembled Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe in an oven-safe skillet and broil it for a couple of minutes with extra cheese on top for a bubbling, golden-brown crust. You can also serve it in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or pack it up for barbecue picnics as a fun, unexpected main dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe stores like a dream. Spoon any extras into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, so tomorrow’s lunch might taste even better than dinner!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze leftovers for quick-fix comfort food later on. Cool the mac and cheese completely, portion into freezer-friendly containers, and freeze for up to two months. When possible, skip the parsley garnish until you’re ready to serve fresh.

Reheating

When it’s time to reheat, a splash of milk in the saucepan or microwave helps revive the creamy texture. Stir gently over low heat until hot and steamy. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming. The brisket keeps its tenderness, and the cheese sauce bounces right back to life.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic for the Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe, shapes like shells, penne, or cavatappi hold the cheesy sauce just as nicely. Use your favorite or whatever you have on hand.

What’s the best brisket to use?

Leftover smoked or slow-cooked brisket works best for deep, savory flavor. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought brisket or even roast beef can fill in, though nothing beats homemade barbecue brisket.

Is it necessary to add barbecue sauce?

Nope! The barbecue sauce is totally optional. If you enjoy a sweet-tangy kick, stir it in; if you prefer your mac extra cheesy, you can skip it altogether. Either way, the recipe shines.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe a day ahead up to the point just before baking or reheating. Store covered in the fridge, then simply reheat and serve when ready.

How can I make it spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce or as a garnish. This brings extra heat and a delicious contrast to the smoky, cheesy flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about the combination of melty cheese and smoky brisket that turns this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe into pure comfort food bliss. I hope you’ll give it a try—the hardest part might just be sharing!

Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.7 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this flavorful Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with tender brisket, a hint of barbecue sauce, and a golden crust – it’s a hearty dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese:

12 oz elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Additional Ingredients:

2 cups cooked brisket, chopped or shredded
1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook Macaroni: Boil salted water and cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk and cream. Cook until slightly thickened. Add cheeses, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
Combine and Serve: Add macaroni to cheese sauce. Fold in brisket and barbecue sauce. Heat through. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.