Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavor with our Brisket Mac and Cheese! This decadent dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining rich, creamy cheese layered over tender elbow macaroni and topped with savory shredded brisket. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. With a bubbling golden crust and aromatic spices, it’s a fusion of classic mac and cheese with a barbeque twist that you’ll crave again and again!
Ingredients
- 1 pound brisket, cooked and shredded
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for golden, bubbling goodness.
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, ready to soak up all that cheesy sauce.
- In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to become rich and fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and has thickened, which should take about 5 minutes. Let it simmer into a creamy dream!
- Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir until fragrant.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the shredded cheese, stirring until it melts into a velvety sauce.
- Gently fold in the cooked macaroni and shredded brisket until every bit is well coated with that cheesy goodness.
- Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture over the mac and cheese for a perfectly crispy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and beautifully golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients. Some delicious additions could be sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even a touch of BBQ sauce for extra flavor. Leftovers (if any) keep well in the fridge and are even great reheated!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe includes basic cooking techniques such as boiling pasta, making a roux (the butter and flour mixture), and baking. The key to a smooth cheese sauce is to add the cheese gradually and stir it gently, ensuring a creamy consistency without any lumps. Baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that perfect, cheesy crust everyone loves!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with varieties like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for an extra kick.
What can I substitute for brisket?
Pulled pork, shredded chicken, or even sautéed vegetables can also be great substitutes if you prefer a different protein!
Conclusion
Your culinary journey ends here, but the delicious memories will linger long after the last bite. This Brisket Mac and Cheese is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a dish, perfect for sharing and savoring. We hope this recipe brings as much joy and satisfaction to your table as it does to ours. Enjoy every cheesy, meaty morsel!