Brisket Mac and Cheese – Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, Brisket Mac and Cheese is your answer. This dish combines tender, smoky brisket with luxuriously creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a mouthwatering balance of textures and flavors. It’s hearty, rich, and absolutely indulgent — perfect for cozy nights in, weekend gatherings, or even as a creative way to use up leftover brisket. I’ve made this dish with both oven-baked and smoked brisket, and the smoky notes elevate the cheesy sauce to another level. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving something warm and satisfying after a long day, this recipe will hit all the right notes. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s as comforting as it is unforgettable.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brisket: The star of the dish, brisket adds a smoky, savory flavor that perfectly complements the creamy cheese sauce. You can use leftover smoked brisket, slow-cooked brisket, or even oven-roasted slices.

Elbow macaroni: Classic macaroni works best here, holding the cheese sauce beautifully. I’ve also tried cavatappi, which adds a bit of flair and texture.

Butter: Butter forms the base of the roux, giving the sauce a rich and silky texture. Use unsalted butter to better control the saltiness.

Flour: All-purpose flour thickens the sauce and helps it cling perfectly to the pasta. Make sure to cook it for at least a minute to remove any raw flavor.

Milk: Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, though I’ve tried almond milk and it worked surprisingly well for a lighter version.

Heavy cream: For that luscious, velvety finish, heavy cream deepens the flavor and gives the sauce body.

Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a tangy, classic mac and cheese flavor.

Mozzarella cheese: Adds that irresistible stretch and gooeyness when baked.

Smoked gouda: This cheese infuses a subtle smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the brisket.

Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing the rich flavors. Taste as you go to avoid overseasoning.

Paprika: A touch of smokiness and color that enhances the overall presentation.

Breadcrumbs (optional): For a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and bake until golden.

Directions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a large baking dish. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for one minute, then slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth and thickened. Add the shredded cheeses gradually, stirring until melted and velvety.

Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Gently stir in chopped brisket, distributing it evenly throughout the mixture. Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish and top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs for added texture. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

For an extra smoky layer, broil for 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy the blend of creamy, cheesy, and smoky goodness.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people generously. Prep time takes about 20 minutes, and cook time adds another 25 minutes, for a total of 45 minutes from start to finish.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or reheat in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Avoid overcooking to maintain the sauce’s smooth texture.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Brisket Mac: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a fiery kick.

BBQ Twist: Mix a few tablespoons of your favorite barbecue sauce into the brisket before folding it into the pasta for a sweet and smoky balance.

Tex-Mex Style: Incorporate pepper jack cheese, black beans, and roasted corn for a Southwestern flair.

Bacon Lovers’ Version: Toss in crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of crunch and saltiness.

Vegetable Boost: Stir in sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach to add depth and nutrition.

Four-Cheese Blend: Combine cheddar, gouda, gruyère, and fontina for a more complex flavor profile.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute cornstarch for flour in the roux.

Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half and use low-fat cheese.

Brisket Mac Bites: Spoon the mixture into muffin tins and bake for portable mini servings — perfect for parties.

Truffle Infusion: Add a drizzle of truffle oil before serving for a gourmet twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

2. What type of brisket works best?

Smoked or slow-cooked brisket adds the richest flavor, but any tender brisket will do.

3. Can I freeze brisket mac and cheese?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

4. How can I make it extra creamy?

Use a mix of milk and heavy cream, and don’t skimp on the cheese.

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Just skip the paprika or spicy additions for younger palates.

6. What’s the best cheese combination?

Sharp cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella create a balanced, flavorful trio.

7. Can I use store-bought brisket?

Yes, store-bought brisket works fine, especially from a deli or BBQ joint.

8. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?

Melt cheese on low heat and avoid overheating the sauce.

9. Can I make it without baking?

Yes, skip the oven and serve directly from the stovetop for a creamier texture.

10. What sides pair well with this dish?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement it beautifully.

Conclusion

Brisket Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish — smoky, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. It brings together two beloved classics into one satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy weekends. The versatility of this recipe allows endless customization, from spicy upgrades to gourmet touches. Whether you use leftover brisket or make it from scratch, this recipe guarantees a hearty, crowd-pleasing experience every time.

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