Description
This Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy, cheesy pasta with tender shredded beef brisket, enhanced by flavorful seasonings and smoky barbecue sauce. A comforting and hearty dish perfect for a satisfying meal, topped with crispy onion strings for a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 16 ounces pipe rigate pasta or shells (organic recommended)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Brisket
- 2 cups leftover beef brisket, shredded
- ¼ cup beef broth
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for drizzling
Garnish
- Crispy onion strings (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pipe rigate pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and return it to the pot.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: To the pot with pasta, pour in whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Gradually add the shredded white cheddar and sharp cheddar cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheeses fully melt into a smooth sauce. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Heat Brisket: In a separate saucepan, combine the shredded leftover beef brisket with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Heat over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the brisket is thoroughly warmed and infused with the sauce flavors.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top generously with the hot shredded brisket mixture. Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over the top for extra flavor. Optionally, garnish with crispy onion strings to add a crunchy texture. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use leftover brisket for convenience, or cook fresh brisket and shred it before using.
- Adjust the seasoning amounts to taste, especially the Slap Ya Mama® seasoning for heat and flavor.
- Crispy onion strings add a great texture contrast but can be omitted if preferred.
- For a lighter version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with lower-fat options, but the sauce may be less rich.
- If barbecue sauce is spicy, balance it with milder cheese or adjust to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
