Brisket Mac and Cheese

Introduction

Brisket Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion, combining the smoky, tender goodness of slow-cooked brisket with the creamy, cheesy richness of classic mac and cheese. This dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion where you want to impress your guests with something truly indulgent. The combination of the savory brisket and the smooth, velvety cheese sauce creates a dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new. Whether you’re a BBQ lover or a mac and cheese enthusiast, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Why it’s Great

This recipe is great because it elevates the humble mac and cheese to a whole new level of deliciousness by adding smoky, flavorful brisket. The tender brisket melts into the creamy cheese sauce, creating a luxurious texture and a deep, rich flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s a versatile dish that works equally well as a main course or a side dish, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover brisket. Plus, the combination of gooey cheese and smoky meat is pure comfort food heaven.

Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Brisket:

• 2 lbs beef brisket
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup gouda cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Brisket:

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Rub the brisket with olive oil and season generously with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the brisket on all sides until browned.
• Transfer the brisket to a baking dish, add the beef broth, and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
• Roast in the oven for 3-4 hours, until the brisket is tender and easily shredded.
• Once cooked, shred the brisket and mix with BBQ sauce. Set aside.

2. Make the Mac and Cheese:

• Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
• Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and mustard powder (if using).
• Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.

3. Assemble the Brisket Mac and Cheese:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large baking dish, layer half of the mac and cheese, followed by a layer of shredded brisket, then the remaining mac and cheese.
• If desired, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Let it cool slightly before serving.

Storing and Preserving

Brisket Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with aluminum foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the oven will maintain the best texture.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

• Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when baked with the cheese sauce.
• Dry Brisket: Ensure the brisket is well-covered and slow-cooked to maintain its tenderness. Adding a little extra broth during cooking can help keep it moist.
• Grainy Cheese Sauce: Use freshly grated cheese to prevent a grainy texture in your sauce. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce.
• Burnt Topping: If using breadcrumbs, keep an eye on the dish in the oven to avoid burning the topping. You can cover the dish with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought brisket?
   Yes, you can use store-bought brisket or leftover brisket to save time.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
   You can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
3. Can this dish be frozen?
   Yes, Brisket Mac and Cheese can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from being too thick?
   If your cheese sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Conclusion

Brisket Mac and Cheese is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something rich, comforting, and full of flavor. The combination of smoky, tender brisket and creamy, cheesy pasta is sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is a surefire way to bring warmth and joy to your table. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a crowd favorite!