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A close-up of BBQ shack brisket mac and cheese topped with tender smoked brisket and a rich barbecue sauce glaze.

BBQ Shack Brisket Mac-n-Cheese

This hearty baked mac and cheese combines three kinds of cheese with tender brisket and tangy barbecue sauce for a rich, smoky comfort-food dinner. Crispy fried onions add a crunchy finish to every bite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 720

Equipment

  • large saucepan
  • whisk
  • pot for boiling pasta
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • mixing spoon
  • oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Cook, whisking often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and smoked gouda until melted and smooth.
  6. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  7. Add the drained macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat. Fold in the brisket and barbecue sauce until evenly distributed.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
  9. Top with crispy fried onions.
  10. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until hot and bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
  11. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, use leftover smoked brisket. If the sauce seems too thick after baking, stir in a splash of warm milk before serving.