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Brisket Mac and Cheese Recipes

Brisket Mac and Cheese: How to Make It Perfect Every Time

by Nancy
Want bold flavor in every bite? Brisket Mac and Cheese brings together rich cheddar and juicy beef. Discover the easy recipe now.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 7 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 685 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Brisket

  • 3 pounds beef brisket
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Mac and Cheese Base

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni or cavatappi for better cheese adhesion
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk warmed
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
  • ½ cup cream cheese softened
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preparing the Brisket

  • Season the Brisket
    Mix all dry seasonings in a small bowl. Rub the spice mixture generously over the entire beef brisket, ensuring every surface is well-coated. Let rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
  • Cook the Brisket
    Slow Cooker Method: Place seasoned brisket in slow cooker, cook on LOW for 6-8 hours until fork-tender. Oven Method: Wrap brisket in foil, cook at 275°F for 4-5 hours.
  • Shred and Set Aside
    Remove brisket, let cool for 10 minutes, then shred into bite-sized pieces. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking juices for added flavor.

Step 2: Creating the Mac and Cheese Base

  • Cook the Pasta
    Boil salted water in large pot. Cook macaroni according to package directions minus 1 minute (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
  • Make the Cheese Sauce
    In heavy saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cook for 1 minute. Gradually add warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the Cheese
    Remove from heat. Stir in cream cheese until melted, then add shredded cheeses and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.

Phase 3: Assembly and Baking

  • Combine Everything
    In large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and 3/4 of the shredded brisket. Mix gently to coat evenly.
  • Transfer and Top
    Pour mixture into greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with remaining brisket, then sprinkle with panko-Parmesan mixture.
  • Bake to Perfection
    Cover with foil, bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Remove foil, bake additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

Brisket Perfection:
  • Choose a brisket with good marbling for maximum flavor
  • Don’t skip the resting period after seasoning
  • Save those cooking juices – they’re liquid gold for flavor enhancement
Cheese Sauce Mastery:
  • Always use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting
  • Warm your milk before adding to prevent temperature shock
  • Add cheese gradually to maintain silky texture
Assembly Secrets:
  • Let components cool slightly before combining to prevent cheese from seizing
  • Reserve some cheese for topping to create an irresistible golden crust
  • Use a mix of pasta shapes if desired – variety adds visual interest
 
Comprehensive Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):
  • Calories: 685
  • Protein: 42g (84% DV)
  • Carbohydrates: 48g (16% DV)
  • Fat: 38g (49% DV)
  • Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
Keyword baked chicken, crispy cutlets, healthy chicken recipe, oven-baked, easy dinner, quick meal, family-friendly, mac and cheese recipe