Tired of the same old leftover brisket routine? Let's elevate those delicious, tender shreds into something truly amazing: a BBQ Brisket Grilled Cheese! This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover brisket, transforming a simple sandwich into a gourmet experience. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for a busy weeknight, and it’s surprisingly healthy too, depending on your bread and cheese choices. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough or Texas toast recommended)
- 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
- 1 cup shredded leftover brisket
- 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (we love a smoky chipotle BBQ!)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
- Optional: Caramelized onions, crispy fried onions, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
Instructions:
- Prep the Cheese and Brisket: If your brisket is cold, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a minute or two. This helps it melt better within the sandwich. Shred it into smaller, more manageable pieces.
- Butter the Bread: Generously butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On two slices of bread, spread a layer of BBQ sauce. Top with the shredded brisket, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese. If using optional toppings, add them now.
- Grill the Sandwich: Place the two bread slices together to form the sandwich. Place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat, butter-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip the sandwich and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is toasted to perfection. If your skillet isn't large enough, you may need to cook the sandwich in two batches.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and cut it in half (or into quarters for smaller portions). Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of smoky BBQ, tender brisket, and melted cheese!
Cooking Tips for the Best BBQ Brisket Grilled Cheese:
- Bread Choice Matters: The bread you choose will significantly impact the final result. Hearty breads like sourdough or Texas toast hold up well to the melting cheese and juicy brisket.
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack adds a spicy kick. Provolone or Gruyere would also create a delicious flavor profile.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If you're making more than one sandwich, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures even cooking and prevents the cheese from becoming soggy.
- Low and Slow (for Crispy Bread): Cooking the sandwich over medium-low heat for a slightly longer time will give you wonderfully crispy bread without burning the cheese.
Variations:
- Spicy Brisket Grilled Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño to the sandwich for a fiery twist.
- Pimento Cheese Brisket Grilled Cheese: Mix your leftover brisket with some pimento cheese for a creamy and flavorful filling.
- Mac and Cheese Brisket Grilled Cheese: Layer some mac and cheese between the brisket and cheese for an extra cheesy, indulgent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-550
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This delicious recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy meals while minimizing food waste. It's quick, simple, and perfect for a satisfying and delicious dinner! Try it today and let us know what you think!