This Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese is a cheesy dream! Juicy slices of smoked brisket are layered between gooey cheese and crisp bread. It’s a comfort food classic with a smoky twist!
Honestly, who can resist melted cheese and tender brisket? I love making these for lunch or dinner, and they always get a big thumbs up from everyone at the table. So good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick-cut Texas toast gives a nice crunch, but sourdough is another favorite for its chewy texture. Feel free to use any bread you have on hand, like brioche or even whole grain for a healthier twist.
Smoked Brisket: If brisket isn’t available, shredded pork or even rotisserie chicken can work well. Also, you can use leftover BBQ meat for a quick meal. The flavor profile will change, but it’ll still be tasty!
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar provides a bold flavor while mozzarella adds creaminess. You can swap cheddar for any melting cheese, like gouda or Monterey Jack. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese blend, though it may melt differently.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand! If you prefer homemade, combining ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and spices can create a quick sauce. Adjust sweetness or smokiness to your liking.
Butter: Softened butter is ideal for spreading, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
How Do You Get a Golden Brown Grilled Cheese?
The key to a perfectly golden brown grilled cheese is a good balance of heat and timing. Here’s how to achieve that crunch without burning:
- Preheat your skillet or griddle to medium heat. If it’s too hot, the bread will burn before the cheese melts.
- Generously butter the outside of each slice; it helps brown the bread evenly. Don’t skimp on the butter!
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and don’t rush the flipping. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until golden, before checking the underside.
- Flip carefully to avoid spilling filling. If you’re worried about the cheese not melting, cover the skillet briefly to trap heat.
Let the sandwiches rest for a minute after cooking. This will help everything set and make slicing easier!
How to Make Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices of thick-cut bread (Texas toast or sourdough work well)
- 1 cup smoked brisket, shredded or sliced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time to prepare this delicious grilled cheese is about 15 minutes. This includes a few minutes for mixing the brisket with barbecue sauce and about 8-10 minutes for grilling the sandwiches. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Skillet Ready:
Start by preheating a skillet or a griddle over medium heat. This helps to get it nice and hot for a perfect grill.
2. Mix the Brisket:
In a bowl, combine the shredded or sliced smoked brisket with the barbecue sauce. Give it a good mix until the brisket is well coated. Set this aside for later.
3. Butter the Bread:
Take each slice of bread and generously spread butter on one side. This will help achieve that golden, crispy crust when we grill the sandwiches.
4. Layer the Cheeses:
On the unbuttered side of four slices of bread, layer the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly. This cheesy goodness is what makes the sandwich extra special!
5. Add the Brisket:
Now, take the barbecue brisket mixture and spoon a portion over the cheese on each of the four slices. Don’t be shy—make it nice and hearty!
6. Top it Off:
Sprinkle another layer of cheese on top of the brisket. Then, place another slice of bread on top, buttered side up. This will form your delicious sandwich!
7. Grill the Sandwiches:
Carefully place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown. Flip them halfway through so both sides are perfectly crispy.
8. Slice and Serve:
Once they’re done, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for about a minute. Then slice them in half, making them easy to dip!
9. Enjoy!
Serve your warm Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your gooey, cheesy creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and mozzarella create a wonderful melty texture, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try using gouda, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Cheese Sandwiches?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them for longer, place them in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated skillet over low heat to restore their crispy texture, flipping occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
What Bread Works Best for Grilled Cheese?
Thick-cut bread like Texas toast or sourdough is perfect for this grilled cheese as it holds up well to stuffing and provides a great crunchy exterior. If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole grain or rye bread can also be delicious!
