Creamy Cheddar Baked Brisket Mac And Cheese Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s the ultimate comfort food mash-up—creamy, cheesy mac and cheese meets smoky, tender brisket, creating a flavor explosion that’s impossible to resist. Plus, the crispy panko topping and sprinkle of fresh parsley add just the right amount of crunch and freshness, making every bite perfection.

I adore whipping up comfort dishes with a gourmet spin, and my Creamy Cheddar Baked Brisket Mac and Cheese is the ultimate indulgence. It’s made with 16 oz of elbow macaroni and a cheese blend that could make any dish sing: sharp cheddar, wonderful mozzarella, and smoky gouda.

In this dish, the addition of shaved (or shredded—your pick) brisket really takes it over the top. But honestly?

Don’t sleep on the creamy base made with 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk; it’s what makes every bite luxurious.

Ingredients

Macaroni in the form of an elbow shape: It offers carbohydrates for energy; it serves as the base for the meal.

Cheddar cheese: High in calcium and provides a creamy, tangy taste.

Smoked Gouda Cheese: Contributes a smoky richness and creamy mouthfeel to the sauce.

Brisket: Provides protein and a rich, savory depth to the mac and cheese.

The dish’s rich, indulgent texture comes from the heavy cream.

Panko breadcrumbs: providing contrast in the mac and cheese from creamy to crunchy.

Ingredient Quantities

• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb cooked brisket, shredded or chopped
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Your oven should be at a temperature of 350°F (175°C) and a large baking dish should be greased.

2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and then keep it aside.

3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.

4. Slowly incorporate the heavy cream and whole milk with a whisk, bringing it to a simmer while emulsifying and thickening simultaneously.

5. Lower the heat to low and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and smoked gouda cheeses very slowly, stirring until they have melted and coagulated into a smooth, homogenous concoction.

6. Incorporate the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, and then season them with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Mix the macaroni and cheese sauce, ensuring that the pasta is thoroughly coated and combined with the sauce.

8. Shred or chop the brisket and fold it into the macaroni and cheese, mixing it evenly throughout.

9. Pour the mixture into the baking dish you made earlier. Add a layer of the Japanese breadcrumbs on top. And then, bake it in an oven set at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and everything beneath it is bubbling and hot.

10. Take it out of the oven and, if you are using any, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Let it cool a bit before you serve it.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Large baking dish
3. Large pot
4. Large saucepan
5. Whisk
6. Measuring cups
7. Measuring spoons
8. Spatula or wooden spoon
9. Colander for draining pasta
10. Cheese grater (if cheeses are not pre-shredded)
11. Knife and cutting board (for chopping brisket and parsley)
12. Grease brush or paper towel (for greasing the baking dish)

FAQ

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?Certainly, any short pasta can serve as a substitute for elbow macaroni in your dish. Try using penne, rigatoni, or even pasta shells if elbow macaroni is in short supply.
• Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?Of course! Use gluten-free elbow pasta and substitute gluten-free flour in the cheese sauce.
• How can I make this dish ahead of time?Make the macaroni and cheese, put it in the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When the time comes to bake the whole thing, add the breadcrumbs and put it in the oven, using the same directions provided in the previous recipe.
• What can I use instead of brisket?Options such as pulled pork, roasted chicken, or even mushrooms as vegetarian substitutes can make for an excellent smoked barbecue sandwich in place of beef brisket.
• Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?Incorporate the milk and cream mixture slowly, whisking continuously to ensure that the sauce remains smooth and creamy.
• Can I add vegetables to this dish?Of course! You can increase the flavor and nutrient density by adding ingredients like steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach.

Substitutions and Variations

Any short pasta shape—such as penne or fusilli—can be used in place of elbow macaroni for a different texture and look.
For a milder flavor, shredded cheddar cheese can be substituted with Monterey Jack or Colby cheese.
You could substitute smoked cheddar for the smoked gouda, or even use gouda, if a less smoky taste is your thing.
Half-and-half can be used for a lighter dish in place of heavy cream.
You can use regular breadcrumbs if you want a finer texture, or crushed crackers if you want added crunch, in place of panko breadcrumbs.

Pro Tips

1. Cheese Selection Ensure your cheeses are freshly shredded from blocks instead of pre-shredded bags, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your cheese sauce.

2. Breadcrumb Enhancements Toast the panko breadcrumbs in a bit of melted butter on a skillet before topping the dish. This will give them an extra golden color and a nice crunch.

3. Uniform Cheese Layering When adding the cheese to the sauce, do it in small batches, combining each addition completely before adding the next. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture without any clumps.

4. Flavor Boost Enhance the robust flavor by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce before combining it with the pasta. This adds a zesty depth to the dish.

5. Consider Broiling For an even crispier topping, switch on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to avoid burning. It will give the breadcrumbs an extra crunchy finish.