If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food mashup, let me introduce you to the Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe—an unapologetically indulgent marriage of creamy, cheesy pasta and smoky, tender brisket. It’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table before you even call them, infusing rich barbecue goodness into every bite. Whether you’re using up leftover brisket or you’ve just been craving a cozy, belly-filling casserole, this recipe guarantees big flavor and plenty of smiles.

Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe are all about building comfort and boldness in every bite. Each component has a vital role, from the oozy cheeses to the melt-in-your-mouth brisket, giving you layers of texture and flavor that make this dish unforgettable.

Elbow macaroni (12 oz): The classic shape for mac and cheese, perfect for catching all that luscious sauce.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Forms the base of your roux and adds essential richness.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce so it hugs every piece of pasta.
Whole milk (2 cups): Makes the sauce smooth and creamy while balancing the richness.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Takes the creaminess to the next level—don’t skip this if you want maximum indulgence.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Brings bold flavor and classic mac-and-cheese vibes.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for a super creamy texture.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory note that complements the brisket.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the smoky undertones and deepens the color.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for making all the flavors pop—taste as you go.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and complexity.
Cooked brisket, chopped or shredded (2 cups): Use smoked or slow-cooked for melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep flavor.
Barbecue sauce (1/4 cup, optional): For extra tang and a hint of sweetness, swirl in your favorite sauce.
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Lends a burst of freshness and a pop of color to your finished dish.

How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. This is key for that delicious toothsome bite—nobody wants soggy noodles in their mac! Once cooked, drain and set aside so they’re ready to soak up all that cheesy sauce.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a big saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour to make a golden roux (about 1 to 2 minutes is perfect). This step sets the stage for a thick, velvety sauce. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for about 4 or 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Lower the heat and stir in all the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese melts into a dreamy, uniform sauce. Take a moment here and appreciate that cheesy aroma—it’s irresistible!

Step 4: Combine Macaroni, Brisket, and Sauce

Add your drained macaroni straight into the pan of sauce, tossing gently so every noodle gets well coated. Now, fold in your chopped brisket and, if you’re craving an extra flavor boost, drizzle in some barbecue sauce. Warm everything through until the brisket and pasta are piping hot and beautifully mixed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon your Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe into bowls while it’s still bubbling-hot, then finish with a shower of chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Serve immediately for the ultimate, gooey satisfaction.

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

To give your Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe a finishing flourish, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or a bit more shredded cheese. If you love a bit of crunch, you can even toast some breadcrumbs and scatter them on top for contrast. A few pickled jalapeños or a swirl of extra barbecue sauce also make fun, flavorful additions.

Side Dishes

This dish is richly satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with light, bright sides. Try serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette or some tangy coleslaw to cut through the creamy cheese. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans add both color and a wholesome touch.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd, you can pour the Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe into an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly. For a party, consider scooping it into individual ramekins or even muffin tins lined with parchment for fun, mini servings. You can also use it as a side for a bigger barbecue spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before packing it away, and be sure to cover tightly to keep it from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to savor this comfort food on a rainy day, you can freeze the fully cooled mac and cheese (without garnish) in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. For best results, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your leftovers back to life, warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream as needed to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently so the cheese sauce stays creamy and doesn’t separate. If you love a bubbly top, reheat in the oven with extra cheese on top.

FAQs

What type Main Course

Both smoked and slow-cooked brisket work beautifully—the smokier, the better! If you have leftover brisket from a barbecue, this is the perfect way to use it up, but store-bought works in a pinch too.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and Monterey Jack are delicious and melty, feel free to mix things up with Gruyère, gouda, or pepper jack for extra flavor. Just aim for cheeses that melt smoothly to keep that creamy texture.

Is the barbecue sauce necessary?

It’s totally optional. The barbecue sauce adds a tangy sweetness and enhances the smoky brisket flavors, but if you prefer a classic, cheese-forward mac, you can leave it out and still have a stellar result.

How can I make this recipe spicy?

Adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce will bring a pleasant heat to your Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe. Smoked chipotle powder or pepper jack cheese also works if you want to amp up the spice factor.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free macaroni and use a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can dig in!

Final Thoughts

This Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe is what comfort food dreams are made of, and I hope you love it as much as my family does. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or treating yourself to a hearty meal, give this recipe a shot and let its smoky, cheesy magic win you over!

Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

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

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this hearty Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy pasta combined with tender brisket makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale

For the 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

For Assembly:

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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Cook until slightly thickened, then stir in cheeses, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Combine and Serve: Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, fold in brisket and barbecue sauce if using. Heat through and serve hot, garnished with parsley.