This Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on a classic sandwich. Picture gooey cheese melting over tender, smoky brisket, all nestled between crispy bread.
It’s the ultimate comfort food, and perfect for lunch or dinner! I love making this when I have leftover brisket—it’s a delicious way to turn leftovers into a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: Thick-cut sourdough gives a great texture and flavor. If you can’t find it, feel free to use another hearty bread like ciabatta or whole grain. Just make sure it can hold the filling without falling apart!
Smoked Brisket: The star of this sandwich! If you don’t have smoked brisket, you can use pulled pork or even shredded rotisserie chicken as alternatives. Keep in mind, it won’t have that smoky flavor but still delicious!
Cheddar and Mozzarella: Sharp cheddar adds a nice zing, while mozzarella provides that gooey melt. You could swap in pepper jack for a spicy kick or use all cheddar if you prefer. Vegan cheese can work too if you’re dairy-free!
Barbecue Sauce: This is optional, but it ties the flavors together beautifully. If you don’t like barbecue sauce, a bit of hot sauce or a sweet chili sauce can provide a nice twist. Just adjust according to your taste!
How Do You Get That Perfect Golden Brown Crust?
To achieve a golden brown crust on your grilled cheese, remember to control the heat! Preheating your skillet to medium is key. If it’s too hot, the bread might burn before the cheese melts. Follow these tips:
- Generously butter the outsides of the bread for nice browning and flavor.
- Cook the first side for about 3-4 minutes until golden, then flip carefully with a spatula.
- If the cheese isn’t melting well, you can cover the skillet for a minute, trapping heat to help it along.
Let the sandwich cool slightly before cutting, so the cheese stays melted and doesn’t ooze out. Enjoy!
How to Make Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of thick-cut sourdough bread
- 1 cup smoked brisket, chopped or shredded
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty smoked brisket grilled cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and delightful meal for any time of day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Skillet:
Start by heating a skillet or griddle over medium heat. This will ensure that your sandwich gets nice and crispy on the outside while the cheese melts on the inside.
2. Prepare the Bread:
While the skillet is warming up, take your sourdough bread slices and butter one side of each slice generously. This will help achieve that perfect golden crust when you cook the sandwich.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, begin layering your ingredients. Start with half of the shredded cheddar cheese, then evenly distribute the chopped smoked brisket. If you’re using barbecue sauce, drizzle some over the brisket for added flavor. Next, add the shredded mozzarella on top of the brisket. Finally, place the second slice of bread on top, making sure the buttered side is facing out.
4. Cook the Sandwich:
Carefully place your assembled sandwich in the heated skillet. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom side turns a beautiful golden brown.
5. Flip for Perfection:
After the first side is golden, gently flip the sandwich over using a spatula. Cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes, until it’s also golden brown and the cheese inside is gooey and melted.
6. Slice and Serve:
Once your sandwich is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for about a minute. Then, slice it in half, revealing all the delicious layers inside.
7. Enjoy Your Creation:
Serve your smoked brisket grilled cheese right away, and feel free to add extra barbecue sauce or pickles on the side if you like. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful sandwich!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sourdough gives a wonderful flavor and texture, you can substitute it with other types of bread such as Texas toast, whole grain, or even brioche for a slightly sweeter taste. Just ensure the bread is thick enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Brisket?
No problem! You can use any cooked beef, such as roast beef or even deli meat, for a quicker option. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned and preferably some form of barbecue flavor to maintain that smoky essence.
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches?
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to avoid burning the bread, or use an air fryer for a few minutes until warm and crispy again.
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the brisket and load up on veggies like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers. You can also add some plant-based cheese or a spread of hummus for added flavor!
