This Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on the classic! With tender smoked brisket and melted cheese between buttery, crispy bread, it’s comfort food at its best.
I can’t resist that gooey cheese mixed with the smoky flavor of the brisket—it’s a match made in heaven! Perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner. Who’s hungry? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: This bread gives a nice texture and flavor. If you don’t have sourdough, any sturdy bread like whole wheat or ciabatta works well too.
Smoked Brisket: A delicious choice! If you can’t find smoked brisket, pulled pork or even store-bought rotisserie chicken could be tasty options.
Cheddar and Mozzarella: These cheeses melt beautifully. You can mix it up with Monterey Jack or gouda if you prefer. Just make sure to include at least one good melting cheese!
Barbecue Sauce: This adds a sweet and tangy kick. If you’re not a fan, try mustard or a spicy aioli instead. You can also skip it entirely for a simpler sandwich.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a nice flavor, but olive oil or a vegan butter can be great substitutes if needed.
How Do I Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted Without Burning the Bread?
Getting that melted cheese while keeping the bread golden and crisp can be tricky, but there are ways to do it right.
- Cook over medium heat to avoid burning. Patience is key here!
- Cover the skillet with a lid for the first few minutes; this traps heat and helps melt the cheese faster.
- Flip gently with a spatula to keep the sandwich intact, ensuring an even grill on both sides.
Letting the sandwich sit for a minute after cooking allows the cheese to set a bit, making it easier to slice and enjoy!
How to Make Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices of sourdough bread
- 1 lb smoked brisket, sliced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious smoked brisket grilled cheese ready in about 20 minutes or less. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skillet:
Start by preheating a skillet or griddle over medium heat. It’s important to get it nice and warm so your sandwiches will grill perfectly.
2. Butter the Bread:
Grab your slices of sourdough bread and butter one side of each slice using about 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Make sure to coat it well for the best grilling results!
3. Assemble the First Layer:
Place 4 slices of the buttered bread, buttered side down, into the skillet. On top of each slice, layer your smoked brisket evenly. This is where the flavor starts to build!
4. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Now, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the brisket. If you want a tangy kick, drizzle some barbecue sauce over the cheese.
5. Top It Off:
Take the remaining 4 slices of bread and place them on top of the cheese, buttered side facing up. This completes your sandwich assembly!
6. Grill the Sandwiches:
Time to grill! Cook the sandwiches for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Flip them carefully to avoid any spills!
7. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Once the first side is golden, carefully flip the sandwiches over and grill the other side for another 4-5 minutes. You want both sides browned and the cheese should be fully melted. Yum!
8. Slice and Serve:
After grilling, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Then slice each sandwich in half and they’re ready to enjoy!
9. Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s hot, and if you like, serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious smoked brisket grilled cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sourdough adds a nice tangy flavor, you can use any sturdy bread, such as Texas toast, ciabatta, or even whole grain. Just make sure it can hold up to the filling without getting soggy.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Brisket?
If you don’t have smoked brisket, you can use leftover roast beef or pulled pork. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or grilled portobello mushrooms for a hearty texture!
How Can I Make These Sandwiches Ahead of Time?
You can prep the sandwiches in advance! Assemble them without grilling, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just heat the skillet and grill as directed.
How Should I Store Leftover Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or a toaster oven until warmed through and the cheese is melty again!
