Brisket Mac and Cheese

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of mac and cheese. When you add tender, flavorful brisket into the mix, you elevate this classic comfort food into a hearty meal that the whole family will love. This Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household, especially on cozy nights when everyone is craving something rich and indulgent. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and succulent brisket creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is hard to resist. Whether you’re using leftover brisket from a barbecue or cooking up a fresh batch, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 16 oz pipe rigate pasta or shells
• 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
• 2 cups leftover beef brisket, shredded
• ¼ cup beef broth
• ¼ cup barbecue sauce
• Optional: crispy onion strings for topping

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta:
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Once done, drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

2. Make Cheese Sauce:
In the same pot, add the whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth to the pasta. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a 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 smooth. Then, add the garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir well and let the cheese sauce simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Heat Brisket:
In a medium pot, combine the shredded leftover brisket with the beef broth and barbecue sauce. Heat over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until the mixture is hot and bubbly.

4. Assemble and Serve:
Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into bowls. Top generously with the heated brisket, and drizzle with additional barbecue sauce if desired. For an added crunch and flavor, garnish with crispy onion strings. Serve immediately and enjoy the hearty goodness!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 670
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 23g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• In Bowls: Serve the mac and cheese in individual bowls for a hearty portion.
• Toppings: Consider adding crispy onion strings, extra barbecue sauce, or chopped chives for garnish.
• Pairings: This dish pairs well with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.

Additional Tips

1. Cheese Selection: For a more complex flavor, mix in some smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese with the cheddar.
2. Spice It Up: If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the brisket.
3. Pasta Options: While pipe rigate and shells work beautifully, you can also use elbow macaroni or cavatappi for a fun twist.
4. Brisket Alternatives: If you don’t have brisket, pulled pork or shredded chicken can also work as delicious substitutes.
5. Make-Ahead: Prepare the cheese sauce and pasta ahead of time, and simply heat and add brisket when you’re ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the brisket and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Mac: Substitute shredded chicken and buffalo sauce for a spicy variation that packs a punch.
• Truffle Mac: Drizzle some truffle oil over the mac and cheese for an upscale version that adds depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad to lighten the meal.
• Pair with garlic bread for an indulgent treat.
• Offer pickles or coleslaw on the side to add a refreshing crunch.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until hot.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
   Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
2. What if I don’t have leftover brisket?
   You can use freshly cooked brisket or substitute with pulled pork or shredded chicken.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta and check the barbecue sauce for gluten-free certification.
4. Can I make this in advance?
   Yes, prepare the mac and cheese and brisket separately, then combine when ready to serve.
5. Is it necessary to use vegetable broth?
   You can substitute with chicken broth if desired; it will add more flavor.
6. How spicy is this dish?
   It’s mildly seasoned; adjust the Slap Ya Mama® seasoning for more or less spice to your liking.
7. Can I add vegetables?
   Absolutely! Broccoli, peas, or spinach can be added to the mac and cheese for extra nutrition.
8. How do I know when the brisket is heated through?
   It should be steaming hot throughout. Stir occasionally while heating to ensure even warming.
9. What barbecue sauce works best?
   Choose your favorite barbecue sauce—sweet, spicy, or smoky all work well.
10. Can I use non-dairy alternatives for the cheese?
    Yes, there are many non-dairy cheese options available that can work in this recipe.

Conclusion

Brisket Mac and Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or just a cozy night in, this dish combines the best of two beloved favorites. With its creamy texture, robust flavors, and the delicious addition of brisket, it’s sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation. Dive in, savor each bite, and enjoy the smiles it brings to your family and friends!

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