What type of whiskey works best for the BBQ sauce?

I suggest using bourbon whiskey for the best taste. Maker's Mark or Jim Beam are great choices. They add a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the spicy honey BBQ sauce.

Can I make this recipe with a different type of meat?

Yes, you can! Instead of smoked brisket, try pulled pork, shredded chicken, or even jackfruit for a vegetarian option. They all work well with the creamy mac and cheese.

How spicy is this mac and cheese bake?

The spice level is moderate. It's designed to be mildly to medium hot. You can adjust it by adding more or less cayenne or hot sauce.

How long can I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a bit of milk to keep it creamy.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep. Prepare the parts ahead and assemble when you're ready. The flavors get even better after a day in the fridge.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Use gluten-free pasta and replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend in the cheese sauce.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Use a mix of sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and monterey jack. This blend offers creaminess and depth to the mac and cheese.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep most parts ahead. Smoke and shred the brisket days in advance, and make the mac and cheese base the day before. Just assemble and bake when ready.

What's the best way to smoke the brisket?

Smoke at 225-250°F for the best results. Use hickory or oak wood chips for smoky flavor. Plan for 1-1.5 hours of smoking per pound of brisket.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?

For a vegetarian version, use smoked jackfruit or roasted portobello mushrooms. They keep the smoky flavor while maintaining the creamy mac and cheese.

Spicy Honey Whiskey BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bake: Ultimate Fusion Recipe

Name: Spicy Honey Whiskey BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Cuisine: American BBQ
Ingredients: High-quality beef brisket (4-5 pounds); Elbow macaroni noodles (16 oz); Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded); Smoked gouda cheese (1 cup, shredded); Cream cheese (8 oz); Bourbon whiskey (1/4 cup); Honey (3 tablespoons); Spicy BBQ sauce (1 cup); Kosher salt (2 teaspoons); Black pepper (1 teaspoon); Smoked paprika (2 teaspoons); Garlic powder (1 teaspoon); Butter (4 tablespoons); All-purpose flour (4 tablespoons); Half-and-half (2 cups); Gruyère cheese (1 cup, shredded); Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup)

Description

The ultimate fusion of BBQ and comfort food! This Spicy Honey Whiskey BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese Bake combines tender smoked brisket with creamy cheese sauce and a spicy-sweet whiskey BBQ glaze for an unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients

High-quality beef brisket (4-5 pounds)

Elbow macaroni noodles (16 oz)

Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded)

Smoked gouda cheese (1 cup, shredded)

Cream cheese (8 oz)

Bourbon whiskey (1/4 cup)

Honey (3 tablespoons)

Spicy BBQ sauce (1 cup)

Kosher salt (2 teaspoons)

Black pepper (1 teaspoon)

Smoked paprika (2 teaspoons)

Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)

Butter (4 tablespoons)

All-purpose flour (4 tablespoons)

Half-and-half (2 cups)

Gruyère cheese (1 cup, shredded)

Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup)

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Instructions

1. Trim brisket leaving 1/4 inch fat, season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder

2. Smoke brisket at 225°F using cherry or apple wood for 1-1.5 hours per pound until tender

3. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, drain

4. Melt butter in large cast-iron skillet, whisk in flour to create roux

5. Slowly add half-and-half, whisking constantly until smooth

6. Add sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and gruyère cheese, stir until melted and creamy

7. Chop smoked brisket into bite-sized pieces

8. Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce in large mixing bowl

9. Fold in chopped brisket pieces

10. Mix honey and bourbon whiskey with BBQ sauce for glaze

11. Transfer mixture to baking dish, drizzle with honey whiskey BBQ sauce

12. Top with panko breadcrumbs

13. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly

14. Let rest 10 minutes before serving

Notes

For best results, smoke the brisket a day ahead and refrigerate overnight

Adjust spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper

Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3-4 days

Reheat in oven with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess

Pairs excellently with tangy coleslaw or pickled vegetables

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Smoking, Baking
Cuisine: American BBQ

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 650
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 145mg