Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipes

If you’re a fan of both brisket mac and cheese, you’re in for a treat! These two beloved comfort foods come together in a glorious fusion that’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender, smoky brisket mac and cheese creates a meal that’s not only satisfying but unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply craving something indulgent, these six brisket mac and cheese recipes will take your culinary experience to the next level.

Before we dive into the recipes, you might want to explore our BBQ brisket recipe to get the perfect cut of meat for your mac and cheese.

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Why Brisket Mac and Cheese is a Must-Try

Brisket mac and cheese are both comfort food staples, but when combined, they elevate each other to new heights. The smoky flavor of brisket complements the creamy, cheesy texture of mac and cheese perfectly. The brisket adds a savory depth to the dish, while the macaroni provides a soft, indulgent base. The blend of flavors and textures is absolutely irresistible.

What makes brisket mac and cheese so special is its versatility. It’s a dish that can be adapted to suit various flavor profiles, whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, smoky, or even sweet. You can make it as simple or as gourmet as you like. The key to perfecting this dish lies in choosing the right ingredients—such as slow-cooked brisket and a creamy cheese sauce—and finding that balance between rich and hearty flavors.

For some expert tips on smoking the perfect brisket, check out this BBQ brisket smoking guide. And if you’re looking for mac and cheese history to better understand its role in this dish.

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1 .How to Make the Best Brisket Mac and Cheese

Ingredients List

To make your brisket mac and cheese, here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Brisket:
  • 2 pounds of brisket (smoked, slow-cooked, or braised)
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• For the Mac and Cheese:
  • 1 pound of elbow macaroni (or any pasta you prefer)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Topping:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket
Start by cooking the brisket to perfection. If you’re using smoked brisket, you can either use leftovers or cook a fresh piece. For slow-cooked brisket, rub it with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Then, slow-cook it at 275°F for 6-8 hours until it’s tender. Once done, shred the brisket with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to undercook it slightly (al dente) since it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add the mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and mix well. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens.. Add the shredded cheeses and stir until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything
Stir the cooked pasta and shredded brisket into the cheese sauce.. Stir gently to combine, ensuring everything is coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and shredded cheese. Evenly spread this mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.

Step 6: Bake
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Nutritional Value

Ingredient	Calories per Serving	Fat	Protein	Carbs
Brisket (3 oz)	250	16g	23g	0g
Macaroni (1/2 cup cooked)	200	1g	6g	40g
Cheese Sauce (1/2 cup)	150	12g	10g	8g

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2 .Smoked Brisket Mac and Cheese: The Perfect BBQ Combo

Ingredients:

• For the Smoked Brisket:
  • 2 pounds of brisket (preferably smoked, or you can smoke it yourself)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon coarse salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
• For the Mac and Cheese:
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Topping:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional for an extra cheesy topping)

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Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

If you’re smoking the brisket yourself, rub it with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Place it in a smoker preheated to 225°F. Smoke for about 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F for that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Once done, shred the brisket using a fork and set it aside.

If you’re using leftover smoked brisket, simply chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, but stop just short of being fully tender (aim for al dente). Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Once the sauce thickens, stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, then slowly add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Brisket, Pasta, and Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and shredded brisket into the cheese sauce, stirring until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Transfer the brisket mac and cheese to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Tips:

1. Smoked Brisket Flavor Boost: If you want to add even more smoky flavor to your mac and cheese, consider adding a splash of BBQ sauce to the cheese sauce or mixing some into the shredded brisket before combining it with the pasta.
2. Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time by assembling everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until bubbly.
3. Creamy Texture: For an ultra-creamy sauce, don’t hesitate to add a little more heavy cream or even a spoonful of cream cheese when making the sauce.
4. Texture Variety: For extra texture, sprinkle some crispy fried onions on top just before serving. It adds a nice crunch to balance the creamy mac and cheese.
5. Leftover Brisket: This is a fantastic way to use up any leftover smoked brisket from your BBQ. The smoky flavor of the brisket pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese sauce.
6. Cheese Swap: While cheddar and mozzarella are the classic cheeses for mac and cheese, feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations like Gouda, Gruyère, or even Pepper Jack for a spicy twist.
7. Be Mindful of Salt: Since both the brisket and cheese are salty, be sure to taste the cheese sauce before adding any extra salt. You can always add more later, but it’s better to err on the side of caution.

By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll have a perfect plate of Smocked Brisket Mac and Cheese that’s both comforting and delicious, ideal for any BBQ lover or mac and cheese enthusiast. Enjoy!

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3 .How to Turn Brisket into a Mac and Cheese Casserole

Whether you’re using leftover brisket or cooking a fresh batch, this easy recipe will turn your favorite BBQ meat into the ultimate casserole.

Ingredients:

For the Brisket:

• 2 pounds of brisket (smoked or cooked)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Mac and Cheese Casserole:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

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Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

• If using raw brisket: Rub the brisket with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
• Option 1 – Smoked Brisket: Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Smoke the brisket for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F for tenderness.
• Option 2 – Slow-Cooked Brisket: If you don’t have a smoker, you can slow-cook the brisket in the oven at 275°F for 3-4 hours, or until it’s fork-tender. Once cooked, allow it to rest for 15 minutes before shredding.

Once your brisket is cooked and tender, shred it using a fork, then set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the macaroni or pasta of your choice and cook according to package instructions, but stop just before it becomes fully tender (al dente). This is important as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.
• Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
• Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
• Continue to cook and whisk the sauce for another 4-5 minutes until it thickens.
• Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is melted.

Step 4: Combine Brisket, Pasta, and Cheese Sauce

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and shredded brisket.
• Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and brisket, stirring gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter.
• If you like extra cheesy crunch, you can also add some shredded cheddar cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
• For a crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking (watch closely to prevent burning).

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set.
• Serve it hot and enjoy the creamy, smoky, cheesy goodness of your brisket mac and cheese casserole!

Tips for Success:

1. Use Leftover Brisket: This casserole is a fantastic way to use leftover brisket from a BBQ or a slow-cooked meal. It’s a great time-saver and still tastes delicious.
2. Cheese Variation: You can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or even Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure the cheeses melt well to maintain that creamy texture.
3. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble everything (except the topping) and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, top with breadcrumbs and bake as usual.
4. Creamy Sauce: For an ultra-creamy casserole, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone to the cheese sauce. It will give the dish a velvety, luxurious texture.
5. Extra Crunch: Add crispy fried onions or bacon bits on top along with the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
6. Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, skip the brisket and add roasted vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

This Brisket Mac and Cheese Casserole is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a BBQ, or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot!

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4 .Spicy Brisket Mac and Cheese: Adding a Kick to Comfort Food

Spicy Brisket Mac and Cheese will quickly become your new favorite Whether you’re a heat-seeker or just looking for a bit of spice, this recipe brings the perfect balance of smoky, cheesy, and spicy flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Spicy Brisket:

• 2 pounds brisket (smoked or slow-cooked)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup pepper jack cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

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Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Brisket

• Option 1 – Smoked Brisket: Rub the brisket with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Smoke the brisket at 225°F for 6-8 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F and is tender enough to shred.
• Option 2 – Slow-Cooked Brisket: If you don’t have a smoker, rub the brisket with the same spices and cook it in the oven at 275°F for 3-4 hours until it’s fork-tender.

Once the brisket is cooked and rested, shred it into bite-sized pieces using a fork. Set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
• Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
• Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
• Continue to cook, whisking, until the sauce thickens (about 4-5 minutes).
• Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Once the sauce is thick and creamy, add the shredded cheddar, pepper jack, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Spicy Brisket, Pasta, and Cheese Sauce

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and shredded brisket.
• Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the pasta and brisket. Stir gently to coat everything evenly with the cheesy, spicy sauce.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

• In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and chili flakes (if using).
• Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
• For extra crunch, you can broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Just be sure to watch it closely!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Serve hot and enjoy the spicy, smoky, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Success:

1. Adjust the Heat: If you love spicy food, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper and chili flakes. For a milder version, reduce or omit them entirely. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an additional kick.
2. Creamier Sauce: For an extra creamy texture, add a couple of spoonfuls of cream cheese to the sauce before the cheese melts. This will give the sauce an ultra-smooth and velvety consistency.
3. Leftover Brisket: This is a fantastic way to use up leftover brisket from a BBQ or slow-cooked meal. The smokiness from the brisket complements the spiciness of the sauce beautifully.
4. Add Some Veggies: If you’d like to add some veggies to balance out the richness, roasted peppers, jalapeños, or even some sautéed onions would work perfectly with this dish.
5. Cheese Variations: While pepper jack and cheddar bring the right balance of spice and creaminess, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
6. Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, top with breadcrumbs and bake as usual.

This Spicy Brisket Mac and Cheese brings an exciting twist to traditional comfort food. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a backyard BBQ, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who loves a little extra heat. Enjoy!

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FAQs about Brisket Mac and Cheese

Conclusion

Brisket Mac and Cheese is the comfort food with a twist. The combination of smoky, tender brisket and creamy, cheesy pasta creates a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re using leftover brisket or cooking a fresh batch, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser. The versatility of Brisket Mac and Cheese allows you to customize it with your favorite cheeses, spices, and toppings to suit your taste. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

So, if you’re looking to take your mac and cheese game to the next level, adding brisket is the way to go. It’s smoky, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious—exactly what comfort food should be. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this dish quickly becomes a family favorite!

This recipe is absolutely fantastic! If you’re in the mood for something easy but full of flavor, I definitely suggest giving it a go Grilled Chicken Wrap .