Tender brisket and creamy mac and cheese, what could be better?
The only thing that could make Mac and Cheese better was if it was smothered in brisket. And that’s what I set out to do. I loved brisket, and I loved Mac and Cheese, so why not put the two together?
I started with a simple recipe for Mac and Cheese but added in some chopped-up brisket.
The result was amazing! It was like a party in your mouth. I quickly became known for her delicious Brisket Mac and Cheese, and everyone wanted a taste. I soon opened up her restaurant, serving nothing but my famous dish. Thank goodness!
What is brisket mac and cheese?
Brisket mac and cheese is a hearty dish that combines two classic comfort foods. The rich flavor of smoked brisket is paired with creamy macaroni and cheese, making it a perfect meal for a cold winter night.
The history of brisket mac and cheese
Brisket mac and cheese is a dish that has its roots in the American South. The dish is typically made with cooked macaroni, cheese, and chopped brisket.
Although the exact origins of brisket mac and cheese are unclear, this dish has become a popular comfort food in the United States. The most common story is that it was created by a Texas barbecue restaurant in the early 2000s.
The restaurant owner wanted to find a way to use up leftover brisket, so he combined it with macaroni and cheese.
Other accounts suggest that brisket mac and cheese was created by home cooks who were looking for a new way to enjoy their leftovers.
Why do You love brisket mac and cheese?
1. The flavor
Brisket mac and cheese has a rich, savory flavor that is unlike any other mac and cheese dish. The beef brisket adds a depth of flavor to the dish, while the cheese provides a creamy, delicious contrast.
2. The texture
The beef brisket also adds a unique texture to the dish. The tender slow-cooked beef pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce and the crispy, cheesy top.
3. It’s hearty and filling
Brisket mac and cheese is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a winter meal. The rich flavor and creamy texture will leave you feeling satisfied, while the beef brisket will help to keep you full.
4. It’s easy to make
This dish is also surprisingly easy to make. While the beef brisket does need to be slow-cooked, the rest of the dish can be made in just a few minutes. And, if you’re short on time, you can even use pre-cooked beef brisket from the grocery store.
5. It’s versatile
Brisket mac and cheese can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with a variety of other dishes, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
How to make brisket mac and cheese in 5 Steps?
- Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees. Then, take a large pot and fill it with water before adding the brisket.
- Bring the water to a boil before reducing the heat and simmering for two hours. Remove the brisket from the pot and set it aside to cool.
- In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat before adding flour. Stir until the mixture is smooth before gradually adding milk.
- Raise the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continually until it thickens. Add salt, pepper, and cheese before stirring until melted.
- Finally, cut the brisket into small cubes and add them to the macaroni and cheese mixture before baking for 30 minutes or until heated through.
The Best Brisket Recipe
Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni cooked according to package instructions
- 8 ounces of cheddar cheese shredded
- 4 ounces of gouda cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups smoked brisket chopped into small pieces
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, gouda cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly on the top. Remove from oven and top with smoked brisket pieces before serving.
Nutrition
Instructions Before Making brisket mac and cheese
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Cook macaroni noodles according to package instructions.
- In a large pot, cook the beef brisket until it is browned.
- Add the beef broth and BBQ sauce to the pot and stir well.
- Drain the macaroni noodles and add them to the pot with the beef brisket mixture.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and diced onion.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
RECIPE FAQS
Q1. What sides go with brisket & Mac & Cheese?
When it comes to side dishes, few dishes are as iconic as macaroni and cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, mac and cheese is the perfect complement to a hearty brisket. Another great option is mashed potatoes.
The creamy potatoes pair well with the rich flavor of the brisket, and the dish can be easily dressed up with a variety of toppings. For a lighter option, consider roasted vegetables.
The vegetables will add a pop of color to the plate and can be flavored to suit your taste. Whatever side dishes you choose, make sure to serve them with a smile. After all, there’s nothing like good food and good company to make a meal complete.
Q2. Can you shred brisket?
Some people prefer the traditional method of slicing the meat into thick pieces, while others find shredding to be a more convenient option.
Some believe that shredding helps to bring out the full flavor of the brisket, as the individual pieces of meat can absorb more of the smoke and rubs used during cooking.
Q3. How long does it take to smoke a brisket so it falls apart?
When it comes to smoking a brisket, the key is to cook it low and slow. This method of cooking helps to break down the tough collagen in the meat, resulting in tender, flavorful brisket that falls apart.
However, cooking time can vary depending on the size and type of brisket you are using. For example, a leaner brisket will require less time than a fatty brisket.
In general, you should plan on smoking a brisket for 1-2 hours per pound. So, for a 4-pound brisket, you would smoke it for 4-8 hours. As always, it’s best to use a digital thermometer to ensure that the brisket is cooked through before serving.
Q4. How does Gordon Ramsay cook a brisket?
When it comes to cooking brisket, Gordon Ramsay knows what he’s doing. For starters, he seasons the beef with a generous amount of salt and pepper. Then, he sears it in a hot pan until it’s nice and brown all over.
Next, he transfers the brisket to a roasting tin and adds some chicken stock, red wine, and garlic. After that, it’s in the oven for a few hours until the meat is meltingly tender.
Finally, Gordon Ramsay finishes the brisket with a delicious glaze made from honey, mustard, and soy sauce.
Q5. What is the 3 2 1 method for brisket?
The 3 2 1 method for brisket is a simple way to ensure that your brisket comes out flavorful and moist.
- First, you rub the brisket with a dry rub, which will help to flavor the meat.
- Next, you smoke the brisket for three hours. This will help to cook the meat evenly and infuse it with a smoky flavor.
- Finally, you wrap the brisket in foil and cook it for another two hours. This helps to lock in moisture and prevent the meat from drying out. By following the 3 2 1 method, you can guarantee that your brisket will be flavorful and moist.
Q6. What is the key to avoiding grainy mac and cheese?
The key to avoiding grainy mac and cheese is to cook the pasta correctly.
- Start by boiling the pasta in plenty of water. Then, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. It will stop the cooking process and prevent the pasta from absorbing too much water.
- Next, be sure to use fresh, high-quality cheese. Grate the cheese yourself, if possible, and avoid pre-shredded cheese, which can be dry and flavorless.
- Finally, add the cheese to the pasta gradually, constantly stirring until it is fully incorporated. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little milk to thin it out. With these simple tips, you can enjoy smooth, creamy mac and cheese that is full of flavor.
Q7. How to freeze mac and cheese leftovers?
If you find yourself with a pan of leftover mac and cheese, don’t despair – it can be easily frozen for later.
- First, let the mac and cheese cool to room temperature.
- Then, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Finally, label the container with the date and freeze it for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen mac and cheese, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or oven.
Expert Tips mac and cheese
1. Don’t be afraid to experiment
When it comes to making mac and cheese, don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Try adding in some chopped bacon or roasted garlic for a unique twist.
You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Gruyere, or Gouda.
2. Use good-quality cheese
One of the most important things to do when making mac and cheese is to use good-quality cheese. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as well. Instead, opt for buying a block of cheese and shredding it yourself.
This will make a big difference in the taste and texture of your dish.
3. Cook the pasta properly
Another important tip is to cook the pasta properly. Be sure not to overcook it, as this will make it mushy. The pasta should be cooked al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard.
4. Make a roux
A roux is a mixture of flour and fat that is used to thicken sauces and soups. It’s an essential component of any good mac and cheese recipe, so be sure to make one before adding in the cheese sauce.
5. Let it rest before serving
Once you’ve made your mac and cheese, resist the urge to dive right in! Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes will allow the flavors to meld together and result in a tastier dish.
