Prepare to embark on a flavor journey like no other with the BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl! This dish is a delightful fusion of classic comfort food and mouthwatering barbecue, creating a culinary experience that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Imagine a creamy, cheesy macaroni base, topped with tender, smoky brisket and a tantalizing drizzle of barbecue sauce – it’s a match made in heaven!
Table of Contents

Easy BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl You’ll Crave Again
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl blends creamy cheddar mac with smoky chopped brisket and a drizzle of tangy barbecue sauce—comfort-food perfection in one hearty bowl.
Ingredients
Macaroni: 8 ounces
Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded
Smoked Brisket: 2 cups chopped
BBQ Sauce: 1 cup
Butter: 2 tablespoons
Flour: 2 tablespoons
Milk: 2 cups
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Garnish: Chopped green onions
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni to al dente; drain.
3. Make roux: melt butter, whisk in flour 2–3 min.
4. Whisk in milk; cook 5–7 min until thick.
5. Stir in cheddar, garlic powder, salt, pepper until smooth.
6. Fold macaroni into cheese sauce.
7. Portion mac into bowls.
8. Top with chopped brisket; drizzle BBQ sauce.
9. Garnish with green onions; serve hot.
Notes
Try different cheese blends or add diced jalapeños for heat.
Great use for leftover brisket—serve with salad or cornbread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Ingredients for the Perfect BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl
To craft this masterpiece, you’ll need a few simple yet essential ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chopped smoked brisket
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- Chopped green onions for garnish
The macaroni is the foundation, providing the perfect canvas for the creamy cheese sauce. The butter and flour create a roux, which thickens the milk into a silky, cheesy delight. The cheddar cheese and garlic powder add depth and flavor, while the smoked brisket brings a delightful smoky and savory element to the dish. And, of course, the barbecue sauce ties it all together, delivering a tantalizing sweet and tangy finish.
Mastering the Art of Creamy Mac & Cheese
Crafting the perfect BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl starts with the foundation – the mac and cheese itself. To achieve that irresistible creamy texture, it’s all about the technique. First, melt the butter in a saucepan, then whisk in the flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. This is the key to a smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, it’s time to add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it in gently, ensuring the cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce without any clumps. A sprinkle of garlic powder, along with a pinch of salt and pepper, completes the flavor profile of the cheese sauce.
Finally, fold the cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce, coating each noodle evenly. This is where the magic happens – the macaroni absorbs the rich, creamy goodness, creating the perfect canvas for the star of the show: the barbecue brisket.
Introducing the Smoked Brisket Superstar
No BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl would be complete without the smoky, tender brisket. While you can certainly use pre-cooked brisket, the true flavor comes from preparing it yourself. The key is to slow-cook the brisket until it’s fall-apart tender, allowing the smoky goodness to infuse every bite.
Whether you opt for a classic low-and-slow oven method or the bold, smoky flavor of a charcoal grill, the result is the same: a melt-in-your-mouth brisket that perfectly complements the creamy mac and cheese. Once the brisket is cooked, simply chop it into bite-sized pieces and get ready to assemble your BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl.

Assembling the Ultimate BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl
Now, it’s time to bring all the components together and create the ultimate BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl. Start by dividing the cheesy macaroni into individual serving bowls. Top each portion generously with the chopped smoked brisket, ensuring that every bite contains a delightful balance of tender meat and creamy pasta.
To finish the dish, drizzle the barbecue sauce over the brisket and mac and cheese, allowing it to seep into the nooks and crannies. The sweet and tangy sauce adds the perfect finishing touch, elevating the flavors to new heights.
Finally, garnish your BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl with a sprinkle of chopped green onions, adding a fresh, vibrant note to the dish. The combination of the creamy, cheesy mac, the smoky brisket, and the tangy barbecue sauce, all topped with the crisp green onions, creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds completely satisfied.
Variations and Customizations
While the classic BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl is a true masterpiece, there’s always room for customization and creativity. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses to achieve your desired flavor profile.
For a spicier twist, try adding diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the mac and cheese. Vegetarians can easily swap the brisket for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based protein alternatives like seasoned tofu or jackfruit.
And if you’re looking to take it up a notch, consider adding additional toppings like crispy bacon bits, fried onion strings, or even a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for a touch of crunch.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
The BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl is a true showstopper, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or even tailgating events. Pair it with a refreshing side salad or a crisp coleslaw to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
For beverage pairings, a cold, frothy beer or a refreshing iced tea complement the flavors beautifully. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – a decadent chocolate chip cookie or a slice of pecan pie would be the perfect way to end this delightful meal.
FAQs about BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl
What ingredients are typically used in a BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl?
A BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl typically includes cooked macaroni pasta, creamy cheese sauce (often made with cheddar or a blend of cheeses), tender BBQ brisket, and various toppings such as green onions, breadcrumbs, or pickles. You may also find variations that include additional ingredients like smoked gouda, jalapeños, or barbecue sauce.
How can I make BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese at home?
To make BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese at home, start by cooking your macaroni according to package instructions. In a separate pot, prepare a cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and adding milk and cheese until smooth. Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and incorporate chopped BBQ brisket. Serve it hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Can I use leftover brisket for this dish?
Yes, using leftover brisket is a great way to prepare [** BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese]. Simply chop or shred the leftover brisket into bite-sized pieces and mix it into the mac and cheese. This dish is a perfect way to repurpose leftover barbecue and create a delicious meal.
Is BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese can be a fantastic meal prep option. You can prepare a large batch and divide it into individual portions. Store the portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
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- Mozzarella Stuffed BBQ Meatball Bombs
- Cheesy Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Mushrooms
Prepare to embark on a flavor-packed adventure with the irresistible BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bowl! This dish is a must-try for any lover of comfort food, barbecue, or simply delicious, satisfying meals. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this masterful combination of creamy mac and cheese and mouthwatering smoked brisket. Bon appétit!
Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.