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Brisket Mac and Cheese

Brisket Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food That Steals the Show

Brisket Mac and Cheese combines cheesy pasta with flavorful beef brisket for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 lb Pipe Rigate Pasta You can swap it with shells or any short pasta if preferred.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Low-fat or plant-based milk can be used.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half is a lighter alternative.
  • 1 cup Vegetable Broth Chicken broth works too.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can enhance flavor.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Shallots or leeks can be used for variation.
  • 1 tbsp Slap Ya Mama Seasoning Any Cajun seasoning can be used.
  • 1 tsp Ground Mustard Dijon mustard is a sharper substitute.
  • 1 tsp Turmeric Optional but enhances color.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Fresh cracked is preferable.
  • 1.5 cups White Cheddar Cheese Feel free to use mild cheddar or Monterey Jack.
  • 1.5 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Can substitute with extra white cheddar or gouda.
For the Brisket
  • 2 cups Leftover Beef Brisket Pulled pork or chicken can be a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Beef Broth Chicken broth or beef concentrate can work.
  • 1/2 cup Barbecue Sauce Use your favorite store-bought or homemade.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Crispy Onion Strings Optional for added crunch.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pipe rigate pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain and return to the pot to keep warm.
  2. In the same pot, combine whole milk, heavy cream, and vegetable broth. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers but doesn’t boil. Gradually add in the white cheddar and sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  3. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, ground mustard, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, letting the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
  4. In a separate skillet, combine leftover shredded brisket with beef broth and BBQ sauce over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the brisket is heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into serving bowls. Generously top with the BBQ brisket mixture, drizzling with extra barbecue sauce. Optionally, add crispy onion strings for an extra crunch and texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 32gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For best results, add cheese gradually to ensure a creamy consistency. Keep an eye on the sauce to avoid scorching. You may substitute brisket with other meats for variation.

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