Brisket Mac and Cheese
Brisket mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort-food fusion—combining creamy, cheesy pasta with tender, smoky brisket for a dish that’s rich, hearty, and unforgettable. Whether made with leftover smoked brisket or freshly cooked beef, this recipe transforms classic mac and cheese into a bold main course worthy of center stage.
The beauty of brisket mac and cheese lies in contrast. The smooth, velvety cheese sauce coats every piece of pasta, while the brisket adds texture, depth, and savory richness. Each bite delivers comforting creaminess followed by the deep, beefy flavor that only slow-cooked brisket can provide.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, BBQ spreads, or indulgent weekends, this dish feels both familiar and elevated.
Why Brisket and Mac and Cheese Are a Perfect Match
Mac and cheese is beloved for its creamy simplicity. Brisket, on the other hand, is prized for its bold flavor and tenderness. When combined, the brisket balances the richness of the cheese while adding protein and substance.
Smoked or slow-braised brisket works especially well because its flavor permeates the dish without overpowering it. The cheese sauce absorbs subtle smoky notes, creating layers of flavor throughout the pasta.
This recipe also makes excellent use of leftover brisket, turning it into something completely new and exciting.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked brisket, chopped or shredded
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Cook until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted.
- Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Fold in cooked macaroni and chopped brisket until evenly combined.
- Transfer to a serving dish or baking dish.
- Serve immediately, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes for a lightly browned top.
Brisket Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook macaroni until al dente and drain.
- Prepare cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cream.
- Melt cheese into sauce and season.
- Fold in brisket and pasta.
- Serve or bake until bubbly.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Brisket Mac and Cheese
- Use al dente pasta: Prevents mushy texture.
- Shred cheese fresh: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Warm the brisket: Cold meat can cool the sauce too quickly.
- Don’t overbake: Baking too long can dry out the pasta.
Choosing the Best Brisket
Smoked brisket delivers the deepest flavor, but slow-braised or oven-roasted brisket works beautifully as well. Chop or shred the brisket into bite-sized pieces so it distributes evenly throughout the dish.
Avoid brisket that’s overly sauced, as sweet BBQ sauce can overpower the cheese. If using sauced brisket, reduce seasoning slightly.
Cheese Choices and Flavor Variations
Sharp cheddar provides classic mac-and-cheese flavor, while mozzarella adds stretch and creaminess. You can customize further with:
- Gouda for smoky richness
- Monterey Jack for mild creaminess
- Pepper Jack for heat
- Smoked cheddar for depth
Delicious Variations
BBQ Brisket Mac and Cheese
Drizzle lightly with barbecue sauce before serving.
Baked Brisket Mac and Cheese
Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs and bake until bubbly.
Spicy Brisket Mac
Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Three-Cheese Brisket Mac
Use cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella together.
Serving Suggestions
Brisket mac and cheese pairs well with:
- Simple green salad
- Coleslaw
- Cornbread
- Roasted vegetables
It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course but also works as a rich side dish at BBQs.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Why This Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe Works
This recipe works because it respects both components. The cheese sauce is rich but balanced, allowing the brisket to shine without overwhelming the dish. The pasta provides structure, while careful seasoning enhances every layer.
It’s indulgent, comforting, and satisfying—exactly what mac and cheese should be.
Comfort Food at Its Best
Brisket mac and cheese is the kind of dish that brings people back for seconds. It’s familiar yet exciting, comforting yet bold. Whether served fresh off the stove or baked until bubbly, it delivers big flavor in every bite.
Once you try it, it’s sure to become a repeat favorite.
