Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you have a passion for comfort food that’s rich, creamy, and packed with smoky, savory goodness, this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine perfectly tender, shredded beef brisket mingling with velvety, cheesy pasta that’s infused with a touch of bold spices and a hint of barbecue magic. This dish turns the classic mac and cheese into a hearty, crave-worthy masterpiece that brings a little soul to every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or showing off your culinary skills at a casual gathering, this is the ultimate blend of smoky brisket bliss and creamy cheesy satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly extraordinary. Each element plays a role in building that perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and texture that makes this dish unforgettable.

• 16 ounces pipe rigate pasta or shells: The ridges on the pasta help trap the luscious cheese sauce for every bite.
• 2 ½ cups whole milk: Adds creamy richness and smoothness to the base of the sauce.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Intensifies the velvety texture and indulgence of the mac and cheese.
• 1 cup vegetable broth: Provides depth and balances the creaminess, making the sauce less heavy.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory background note that elevates the flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Introduces mild onion sweetness that melds perfectly with the cheese.
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning: Delivers a gentle kick of Cajun spices, giving the dish character without overwhelming heat.
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard: A classic mac and cheese secret that brightens the flavor with a gentle tang.
• ½ teaspoon turmeric: Gives a subtle earthy warmth and a vibrant golden hue to the cheese sauce.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and sharpness to balance the creaminess.
• 2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharp and flavorful, this cheese melts beautifully for a creamy texture.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds depth and a bold, classic cheesiness that the whole dish revolves around.
• 2 cups leftover beef brisket, shredded: Tender and smoky, this is the star protein ingredient that makes the dish memorable.
• ¼ cup beef broth: Helps reheat and moisten the brisket, keeping it tender and juicy.
• ¼ cup barbecue sauce: Infuses the brisket with tangy sweetness for that iconic BBQ flair.
• Crispy onion strings: A crunchy, savory topping that adds unexpected texture and garnishes the dish with flair.

How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pipe rigate pasta or shells in a large pot of salted boiling water, following the package instructions until they are perfectly al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and return it to the pot to prepare for the cheese sauce. The pasta’s shape is perfect for holding onto every creamy, cheesy bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Next, pour the whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth into the pot with the pasta and stir well to combine. Gently bring this mixture to a simmer. Once you see the first bubbles, gradually stir in your shredded white and sharp cheddar cheeses, allowing them to melt slowly into a rich, smooth sauce. Then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Let your cheese sauce simmer gently for about 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors can blend and the sauce thickens beautifully.

Step 3: Heat the Brisket

While your cheese sauce is coming together, warm up the shredded brisket on the side. In a separate pot, combine the leftover beef brisket with beef broth and barbecue sauce, heating over medium heat for about 3 to 4 minutes. This step infuses the brisket with extra moisture and that irresistible barbecue flavor everyone loves.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Finally, it’s time to bring it all together. Spoon a generous portion of the mac and cheese into your favorite bowl, then pile on the warm, tender brisket. Drizzle a bit more barbecue sauce on top for an extra punch of tang and sweetness. For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle crispy onion strings over the top to add a delightful crunch that contrasts the creamy pasta and tender meat. Serve immediately and watch this dish disappear in no time!

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

The perfect garnish can elevate your Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe from delicious to absolutely unforgettable. Crispy onion strings add a burst of texture and a hint of savory bite, while a light drizzle of barbecue sauce brightens the flavors and adds a glossy finish. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives can also lend a pop of color and a mild freshness that balances the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This hearty mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with lighter, fresher sides to keep the meal balanced. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can cut through the richness, while roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus bring extra flavor and nutrients to the table. Cornbread or garlic bread is also a fantastic side option to soak up any leftover cheese sauce and complement the barbecue notes in the brisket.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe in cast-iron skillets or mini ramekins for individual portions that impress guests at dinner parties. Layer the mac and cheese with the brisket in a casserole dish to create a baked version with a crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture. You can even stuff bell peppers or hollowed-out tomatoes with the mixture for a stylish presentation that’s as tasty as it is eye-catching.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen with a bit of resting time, making the next day’s meal equally satisfying. Just be sure to keep the brisket and mac and cheese together so none of that BBQ goodness goes to waste.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well, making it a perfect batch-cooking option. Portion the mac and cheese with brisket into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the creamy texture and smoky flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of milk or broth while reheating helps loosen the sauce and keeps the pasta perfectly creamy. Avoid microwaving at high heat, as it may dry out the dish or cause the cheese to separate.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While pipe rigate or shells are ideal for holding onto the sauce, you can swap in elbow macaroni, fusilli, or even cavatappi. Just choose a pasta that has some texture or grooves to capture all that cheesy goodness.

What if I don’t have leftover brisket? Can I use fresh brisket instead?

Yes, you can. If using fresh brisket, be sure to cook it low and slow until tender and shred easily. You could also use smoked brisket from the store or other smoked beef cuts if brisket is hard to find, and it will still work wonderfully.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Increase the Slap Ya Mama® seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can also use a spicier barbecue sauce or add chopped jalapeños for some heat that complements the smoky brisket.

Can I substitute the cheese used in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with cheese varieties. A mix of mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack works well if you want a different flavor profile. Just be sure to use good melting cheeses to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.

What makes this Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe different from regular mac and cheese?

The addition of tender, smoky shredded beef brisket combined with barbecue sauce brings incredible depth of flavor, turning traditional mac and cheese into a heartier, more indulgent meal. The skillful blend of spices and the topping of crispy onion strings add layers of texture and boldness you won’t find in your average mac and cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe truly feels like a warm hug on a plate, blending the best of smoky beef and luscious cheese in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without fuss and feed a crowd with something memorable. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will have a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Go ahead, dive in and savor every creamy, savory bite!

Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy, cheesy pasta with tender shredded beef brisket and a tangy barbecue twist. Perfect for a hearty family meal, it features a smooth cheese sauce infused with aromatic spices, tender brisket heated with savory broth and sauce, and optional crispy onion strings for texture. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting dish serves 8 and blends the best of classic mac and cheese with smoky, satisfying barbecue flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 16 ounce pipe rigate pasta or shells (organic pipe rigate recommended)

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

Brisket

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

Garnish

• Crispy onion strings (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: In a large pot, cook pipe rigate pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and return it to the pot to prepare for the cheese sauce.
2. Prepare Cheese Sauce: Pour whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth into the pot with the pasta. Stir the mixture to combine and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Gradually add the shredded white and sharp cheddar cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.
3. Heat Brisket: While the cheese sauce simmers, transfer shredded leftover beef brisket to a separate pot. Add beef broth and barbecue sauce, then heat over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the brisket is heated through and well coated with the sauce.
4. Assemble and Serve: Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into serving bowls. Generously top each portion with the warm, saucy shredded brisket. Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over the top if desired. Optionally, garnish with crispy onion strings for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• Use leftover brisket to save time and add deep, smoky flavor. Freshly cooked brisket can also be used if preferred.
• Adjust the level of barbecue sauce according to your taste preference for sweetness and tang.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the pasta with gluten-free noodles.
• Crispy onion strings add a delightful crunch but are optional if you want to keep it lighter.
• This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American