This Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on the classic! Picture melty cheese, tender smoked brisket, and toasted bread all coming together for a flavor explosion.
Trust me, every bite feels like a warm hug. I love serving this with a side of pickles—they add the perfect crunch! Plus, it’s easy to whip up for a cozy night in.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough or Texas Toast: Thick slices are key for a sturdy sandwich. If you don’t have either, try any hearty bread like ciabatta or rye. Sourdough adds a tangy flavor that balances well with the richness of the cheese.
Smoked Brisket: I love using leftover brisket for this recipe, but if you’re looking for an alternative, shredded rotisserie chicken or pulled pork work well, too. They won’t have the same smoky flavor, but they’re still tasty!
Cheeses: Cheddar, Monterey jack, and smoked gouda are a fantastic trio. If you’re not a gouda fan, substitute with some mozzarella for extra stretchiness. Or for sharpness, use aged cheddar instead!
Unsalted Butter: Butter helps to get that golden crust. You can use olive oil if you want a lighter option or even flavored butter for an extra kick.
Dijon Mustard: It’s optional, but I recommend it! It adds a nice tang. If you prefer, you could use whole mustard or skip it altogether—it’s still great without!
How Do I Grill a Sandwich Without Burning It?
Grilling can sometimes be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll get a perfectly golden sandwich every time! The key is to control your heat.
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat; too high can burn the bread before the cheese melts.
- Butter the bread evenly to help it crisp up nicely.
- Keep an eye on the sandwich as it grills—3-4 minutes on each side should do the trick.
- If you find the bread is browning too quickly but the cheese isn’t melting, lower the heat and cover the skillet briefly.
Letting it cool for a minute gives the cheese a chance to set a bit, making your first bite even better! Enjoy your grilled cheese success!
How to Make Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of thick sourdough or Texas toast bread
- 4 oz smoked brisket, chopped
- 2 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 oz Monterey jack cheese, shredded
- 1 oz smoked gouda cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious smoked brisket grilled cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8-10 minutes to cook. All in all, you can have this delicious sandwich ready to enjoy in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Skillet:
Start by preheating your skillet or griddle over medium heat. This will ensure it’s hot enough to give your sandwich a nice golden crust.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Grab your slices of bread and butter one side of each slice generously. If you’re a fan of a little zing, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of one slice. This adds a delicious punch of flavor!
3. Layer the Fillings:
On the mustard side of the bread, evenly layer the chopped smoked brisket. This hearty filling will make your grilled cheese extra satisfying.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time for the cheesy goodness! Evenly sprinkle the cheddar, Monterey jack, and smoked gouda cheeses over the brisket. Don’t be shy—more cheese means more flavor!
5. Assemble the Sandwich:
Carefully place the second slice of bread on top, making sure the buttered side is facing out. Press down gently so everything sticks together.
6. Grill the Sandwich:
Place your sandwich in the preheated skillet. Grill it for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
7. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula. Cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown and the cheese is all melted. Yum!
8. Cool and Slice:
Once both sides are perfectly browned, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Then slice it in half; this makes it easier to handle and share!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm smoked brisket grilled cheese sandwich right away. Savor every cheesy, smoky bite! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough or Texas toast works wonderfully, you can substitute with other types of bread like ciabatta, whole grain, or even a gluten-free option. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart!
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Brisket?
No problem! You can use any cooked meat such as pulled pork, smoked turkey, or even roasted veggies for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the flavors according to the meat or veggie you choose.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover grilled cheese, wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it back on a skillet over low heat or in the oven to retain that crunchy texture!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Sandwich?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding ingredients like caramelized onions, jalapeños, or even a slice of tomato for added flavor. Just keep in mind that wet ingredients can make the sandwich soggy, so adjust accordingly!
