This Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese is a mouthwatering twist on the classic sandwich! Imagine juicy, smoky brisket paired with gooey melted cheese between two crisp, buttery slices of bread.
It’s the kind of comfort food that makes your taste buds happy! I love to enjoy it with a side of pickles and a cold drink—perfect for lunch or dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: This bread adds a nice tang and sturdy texture. If you can’t find sourdough, whole grain or ciabatta are great alternatives. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold all that filling.
Smoked Brisket: Using leftovers is perfect for this dish. If you don’t have brisket, pulled pork or even grilled chicken can work well. Keep in mind that the flavor might change, so choose something smoky if possible.
Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: This blend gives great melty goodness. You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little heat. For mozzarella, try provolone or a melting cheese you like.
Barbecue Sauce: Optional, but I think it really elevates the flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, a little mustard or hot sauce can add a lovely kick. Or, skip it for a pure cheese and brisket experience.
Unsalted Butter: This is key for achieving that crispy, golden crust. If you want a healthier option, try using olive oil or a butter substitute, but it may not taste quite the same!
How Do I Get the Perfect Golden Crust on My Grilled Cheese?
Getting that golden, crispy crust is all about the right technique. Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Make sure to use softened butter: This helps it spread easily on the bread.
- Heat your skillet to medium heat: Too hot can burn the bread too fast. You want it just hot enough to crisp up nicely.
- Don’t rush the cooking: Let each side cook for about 4-5 minutes, pressing down slightly with a spatula to ensure even heat distribution.
- Check for the right color: Look for that golden-brown color before flipping.
Letting the sandwiches rest for a minute before slicing helps the cheese settle and makes for easier eating. Happy grilling!
How to Make Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices of sourdough bread
- 1 pound smoked brisket, sliced (preferably leftovers)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful smoked brisket grilled cheese recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 10-15 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes making this tasty sandwich from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by slicing the smoked brisket into thin pieces. If you’re planning to use barbecue sauce, go ahead and set it aside for later to add some extra flavor to your sandwiches.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Take four slices of sourdough bread and lay them out. On each slice, stack a generous amount of smoked brisket and sprinkle some of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. If you like, you can add a tablespoon of barbecue sauce over the brisket and cheese for added taste. Finally, cover them with the remaining four slices of bread to create your sandwiches!
3. Butter the Bread:
Now it’s time to butter the bread! Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each sandwich to help it get that golden, crispy texture you love.
4. Grill the Sandwiches:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet, making sure the buttered side is down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Don’t forget to press down slightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking!
5. Flip and Cook:
Carefully flip the sandwiches over. If the skillet looks dry, you can add a bit more butter. Cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes until it’s golden brown and the cheese has melted beautifully. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Serve:
Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Then, slice them in half and serve warm. If you’d like, pair it with additional barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough adds a great flavor and texture, you can use other types of bread like Texas toast, ciabatta, or even a crusty baguette. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling.
What Cheese Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have cheddar or mozzarella on hand, feel free to use other types of cheese like provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for a little kick. Just aim for a cheese that melts well to achieve that gooey texture!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover grilled cheese can be wrapped in foil or kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side until heated through and the cheese is melty again.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time! Layer the ingredients and keep them in the fridge, wrapped tightly. When you’re ready to eat, simply grill them as directed. For the best results, cook them fresh for a crispy texture.
