Bushra Griffith
Brisket Mac and Cheese is a hearty, comforting dish that combines two classic recipes. This dish is versatile and can be served as a main course or a side dish. The key to a great brisket mac and cheese is a generous amount of bite-sized brisket pieces in every bite, smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. The cheese sauce can be made with a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your choice. To add a crunch to the dish, a panko bread crumb topping is recommended. Brisket Mac and Cheese is best served with a side of BBQ sauce and can be paired with jalapeño popper cornbread, creamy cheddar mashed potatoes, or easy carrot souffle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Main course or side dish |
| Ingredients | Brisket, macaroni, cheese, butter, flour, milk, cream, broth, garlic, pepper, cayenne, salt, barbecue sauce, jalapeños, and more |
| Nutritional Information | 795-1004kcal, 62-71g Carbohydrates, 22-50g Protein, 51-58g Fat, 31-34g Saturated Fat, 2-3g Polyunsaturated Fat, 12-17g Monounsaturated Fat, 0.5g Trans Fat, 151-220mg Cholesterol, 742-918mg Sodium, 327-752mg Potassium, 2-3g Fiber, 6-12g Sugar, 1753IU Vitamin A, 1mg Vitamin C, 434-726mg Calcium, 1-4mg Iron |
| Storage | Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months |
| Serving Suggestions | Top with breadcrumbs, cheese, brisket bits, shredded cheese, pickled jalapeños, or barbecue sauce |
| Sides | Creamy cheddar mashed potatoes, easy carrot souffle, southern creamed corn, broccoli and cheese casserole, jalapeño popper cornbread, apple pie filling, oatmeal raisin cookies |
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What You'll Learn
Baked vs stove-top mac and cheese
There are two distinct types of mac and cheese: baked and stove-top. While the first few steps of both recipes are similar, the final steps and the resulting textures differ. The stove-top version is a quicker and easier option, while the baked version takes longer but is considered a classic family dinner option.
Stove-Top Mac and Cheese
The stove-top version is ideal for when you want your mac and cheese quickly. It is a straightforward recipe that combines boiled pasta, a roux, and cheese in a skillet. The resulting sauce is smooth, rich, and creamy. You can also control the amount of fillers that go into your recipe.
Baked Mac and Cheese
The baked version is cooked slowly in the oven and is often served at family dinners, Thanksgiving meals, and Christmas Eve get-togethers. It is prepared by mixing cooked pasta with a cheese sauce in a baking dish and sprinkling grated cheese and breadcrumbs on top. The dish is then baked until the cheese is bubbly and browned. The baked version is said to have a different texture from the stove-top variety, and the pasta may be overcooked.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the choice between baked and stove-top mac and cheese depends on individual preferences. Some people prefer the creaminess of stove-top mac and cheese, while others enjoy the browned taste and breadcrumb topping of the baked version. Additionally, the stove-top version allows for more control over the final texture of the dish.
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Pickled jalapeño toppings
Pickled Jalapeño Topping Ideas:
Sliced Pickled Jalapeños:
For a simple approach, slice pickled jalapeños and use them as a topping. You can adjust the amount to control the spice level.
Pickled Jalapeño Relish:
Finely chop pickled jalapeños and combine them with diced onions, a touch of sugar, and a splash of vinegar. This relish can be used as a topping, adding a tangy crunch to your macaroni and cheese.
Jalapeño Popper-Inspired Topping:
Create a creamy jalapeño popper-inspired topping by mixing chopped pickled jalapeños with cream cheese and a touch of garlic powder and black pepper. Spread this mixture over the macaroni and cheese before baking.
Breadcrumb and Pickled Jalapeño Topping:
Combine finely chopped pickled jalapeños with breadcrumbs, a touch of olive oil, and some grated cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the macaroni and cheese before baking to create a crispy, spicy topping.
Pickled Jalapeño and Herb Garnish:
For a more subtle approach, slice pickled jalapeños thinly and use them as a garnish, along with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. This adds a bright, tangy touch to your dish without overwhelming the other flavors.
Remember, when working with jalapeños, it's a good idea to wear gloves and avoid touching your eyes. You can adjust the amount of jalapeños to suit your preferred spice level, and feel free to experiment with different varieties of pickled jalapeños to find your favorite flavor and heat level.
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BBQ sauce
The BBQ sauce adds a tangy, sweet, and spicy kick to the dish, and you can choose your favorite sauce to suit your taste. A good smoky BBQ sauce will complement the smoky flavors of the brisket and cheese. The sauce can be mixed into the mac and cheese, or served on the side, for those who like to dip.
The beauty of this dish is that it is versatile, and you can adapt the recipe to your liking. You can add extra spices to your sauce, such as garlic powder, mustard powder, chili powder, or onion powder, to give it an extra kick. You can also choose to top the dish with crispy onions, jalapeños, or even more cheese!
The BBQ sauce also helps to keep the dish moist, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. The sauce can be mixed with the chopped brisket before being added to the mac and cheese, ensuring that each mouthful has that delicious BBQ flavor.
So, if you're looking to add a little something extra to your brisket mac and cheese, BBQ sauce is a great option. It adds flavor, moisture, and a little tanginess to this comforting, creamy dish.
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Bread crumb toppings
One way to make a bread crumb topping is to melt butter in a frying pan, add crushed garlic, and sauté over low heat for 30 seconds. Then, add the breadcrumbs and chopped parsley, and cook until the breadcrumbs are slightly toasted. Drain the pasta, return it to the pot, and pour the cheese sauce over it, stirring to coat. Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over it, and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes.
Another method is to melt butter in a bowl and add the breadcrumbs, seasoning with salt and pepper, and stirring until evenly moistened. Sprinkle this mixture over the macaroni and bake for about 45 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top.
Panko crumbs, which are Japanese breadcrumbs, can also be used to make an extra-crispy topping. To make this topping, melt butter in a skillet, add the panko crumbs, and stir continuously until browned. Remove from the heat, allow the breadcrumbs to cool, then stir in some Parmesan cheese.
For a simple bread crumb topping, mix melted butter with panko crumbs and a pinch of salt, and sprinkle this mixture over the brisket macaroni and cheese. Bake in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
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Vegetable sides
When serving brisket macaroni and cheese, you might want to include some vegetable sides to balance out the richness of the main dish. Here are some ideas for vegetable side dishes that would complement the flavours of the brisket macaroni and cheese:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or asparagus would make a great side dish. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender.
Green Salad
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy macaroni and cheese. Include some leafy greens such as spinach or arugula, and add in some sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocados for a boost of freshness.
Grilled Vegetables
If you want to add a smoky flavour to your vegetables, consider grilling them. Eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions are all great options for grilling. Brush them with olive oil and place them on a hot grill until they have char marks and are tender.
Steamed or Sautéed Greens
Dark, leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or Swiss chard can be quickly steamed or sautéed in a pan with a little bit of garlic and olive oil. This side dish is simple yet nutritious and can help lighten up the meal.
Vegetable Medley
Create a colourful vegetable medley by combining a variety of vegetables such as carrots, green beans, peas, and corn. You can steam or sauté them until tender, and season with herbs and spices of your choice.
Remember, when choosing your vegetable sides, consider the flavours and textures that will complement the brisket macaroni and cheese. Also, feel free to experiment with different vegetables and cooking methods to find the combinations that you and your guests enjoy the most!
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Frequently asked questions
Some side dish options include Creamy Cheddar Mashed Potatoes, Easy Carrot Souffle, Southern Creamed Corn, and Broccoli and Cheese Casserole.
It is recommended to trim any excess fat from the brisket and chop it into small to medium-sized pieces.
It is important to gently cook the sauce and not let the milk boil to prevent curdling. Add the cheese off the heat a little at a time, and consider adding a splash of cream with the milk or substituting milk for cream.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, add a little milk or cream, and use a microwave or saucepan over medium-low heat. Avoid cooking the sauce at too high a heat to prevent the cream and butter from separating.
