If you’ve ever wondered what happens when comfort food classics collide, Brisket Mac and Cheese is the glorious answer. Silky noodles coated in a blanket of creamy, cheesy sauce serve as the perfect backdrop for tender, smoky brisket and a pop of tangy barbecue sauce. It’s just the right mix of nostalgia and jaw-dropping flavor—a mashup you’ll crave all year long. Whether you’ve got leftover brisket begging for a new life or you’re treating yourself to an extra bit of barbecue magic, this dish somehow feels both extravagant and easygoing, perfect for any family table or friendly gathering.

Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Brisket Mac and Cheese keeps things refreshingly simple, relying on staple ingredients and a handful of bold extras to transform the ordinary into something craveworthy. Every component pulls its weight—cheeses for flavor and meltiness, spices for depth, and the brisket for that irresistible heartiness.

Pipe rigate pasta or shells: Their nooks and crannies catch the gooey cheese and brisket bits in every bite.
Whole milk: For a rich, creamy base that anchors the cheese sauce.
Heavy cream: Adds luxurious silkiness and body to prevent a watery sauce.
Vegetable broth: Lends an extra savory note to the sauce, offsetting all that richness.
Garlic powder: Boosts the comforting flavor without overpowering.
Onion powder: Balances the garlic and deepens the flavor profile.
Slap Ya Mama®: This Cajun seasoning gives a spicy, bold kick that separates this from typical mac and cheese.
Ground mustard: A secret weapon for sharpness and complexity in any cheese sauce.
Turmeric: Adds subtle warmth and a gorgeous golden hue.
Black pepper: For just-enough heat and balance.
White cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully and brings a creamy sharpness.
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Essential for mac and cheese flavor with a robust punch.
Leftover beef brisket, shredded: The star of the show, lending smoke, savor, and hearty satisfaction.
Beef broth: Keeps the brisket juicy and infuses every shred with flavor.
Barbecue sauce: Delivers a tangy-sweet finish that ties the whole dish together.

How to Make Brisket Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Boil and Drain the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package’s directions—just until al dente, since it’ll soak up more flavor later. Drain it well but don’t rinse, then return the pasta to your pot; its warmth helps the sauce come together smoothly for your Brisket Mac and Cheese.

Step 2: Build the Creamy Base

Pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth with the pasta, stirring to combine. Gently bring the mix to a simmer (not a boil) so the dairy doesn’t scorch. The combination of milks ensures your sauce will be luscious, never bland or thin.

Step 3: Melt in the Cheeses

Gradually sprinkle in the shredded white cheddar and sharp cheddar cheeses, stirring constantly. Take it slow—adding the cheese in stages means your sauce becomes silky, not grainy. Watch as it transforms into a smooth, mouthwatering blanket ready for brisket.

Step 4: Season Like a Pro

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama®, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper, mixing well. This seasoning blend infuses every noodle with a spectrum of flavor—cheesy, tangy, spicy, and earthy all at once. Give it a taste and tweak if you crave a stronger kick.

Step 5: Simmer for Flavor

Let the mac and cheese simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step thickens the sauce and allows the spices to marry with the dairy and cheese, creating a cohesive, decadent “glue” for your Brisket Mac and Cheese.

Step 6: Warm Up the Brisket

While the sauce simmers, place your leftover brisket in a separate medium pot. Pour in the beef broth and barbecue sauce, stir to combine, and heat over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, just until piping hot. You want the brisket juicy, saucy, and bursting with flavor that will meld effortlessly with the cheesy pasta.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Ladle the creamy mac and cheese into bowls, then pile on a generous helping of the warm brisket. Don’t be shy with a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce—this is where the brunch-worthy fusion really shines. If you’re feeling fancy, toss on crispy onion strings for a perfect finishing crunch. Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews.

How to Serve Brisket Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

The right toppings can elevate your Brisket Mac and Cheese from hearty comfort food to an eye-catching feast. Think crispy onion strings for texture, a handful of freshly chopped chives for color, or a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar. Even a final dusting of black pepper or smoked paprika adds visual pop and an extra layer of flavor that wakes up every forkful.

Side Dishes

This dish is satisfyingly rich, so pair it with lighter, fresh sides to round out your meal. A crisp green salad or simple steamed veggies (like broccoli or green beans) cut through the decadence. Cornbread or homemade pickles are also excellent choices—each adds its own Southern comfort twist to your plate of Brisket Mac and Cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual gatherings, serve Brisket Mac and Cheese in personal ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for an individual wow factor. Hosting a party? Set up a DIY bar: offer bowls of extra toppings (think jalapeños, chopped bacon, or fried shallots), so everyone can customize their own bowl. It’s equally fantastic in a casserole dish for family-style, comfort-laden dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Brisket Mac and Cheese stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Transfer any leftovers into airtight containers as soon as possible to keep the sauce lush and the brisket tender. The flavors continue to deepen overnight, turning next-day portions into a surprisingly elevated lunch or dinner.

Freezing

If you want to stash away leftovers or prep ahead, this dish is definitely freezer friendly. Simply cool everything completely, divide into oven-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. For best results, keep the brisket separate from the mac and cheese; this way, you can reheat both to perfection without risking a grainy sauce.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a portion in a covered dish and warm in the oven at 325°F until hot throughout. If the sauce looks a bit thick, stir in a splash of milk or cream as it heats. The microwave also works for speed—just use short bursts, stirring in between to ensure everything stays creamy. Warm the brisket separately if possible, and combine before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for Brisket Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While pipe rigate and shells are perfect for trapping sauce, elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or even penne will all work nicely. Just aim for shapes that have lots of curves or pockets for the cheese and brisket to cling to.

What if I don’t have leftover brisket?

No worries—you can use store-bought smoked brisket or even shredded rotisserie beef in a pinch. Just be sure to warm and toss it with beef broth and barbecue sauce for that iconic Brisket Mac and Cheese vibe.

Is there a way to make this less spicy?

If you prefer a milder dish, simply cut back on the Slap Ya Mama® seasoning or swap it with your favorite mild Cajun blend. Everything else can remain the same, so you still get all the rich, creamy goodness without the extra heat.

Can I make Brisket Mac and Cheese ahead for an event?

Yes! Prepare the mac and cheese and brisket separately, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat both gently, then assemble and garnish. This keeps everything tasting fresh—no soggy noodles or dried-out brisket.

What cheeses work best for the sauce?

Sharp cheddar and white cheddar are a winning combination for their meltability and big flavor, but don’t hesitate to experiment. Smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a splash of cream cheese can take your Brisket Mac and Cheese to new heights.

Final Thoughts

This Brisket Mac and Cheese pulls together the best of comfort food and barbecue in a single, unforgettable dish. I hope you dig in with a big appetite and even bigger enthusiasm—whether you’re using up leftovers or making something special from scratch, this recipe is destined to become a new favorite at your table!