This Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on a classic! Rich, tender pieces of smoked brisket melt together with gooey cheese for a warm and tasty sandwich.
Grilled to perfection, this sandwich is perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner. I love dipping mine in a little BBQ sauce—it’s a must-try for all barbecue lovers! 🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick-cut bread is a must for holding up all the fillings. Texas toast or sourdough works great. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, try whole wheat or even a gluten-free option, if needed.
Smoked Brisket: The star of the dish! If you don’t have smoked brisket, shredded or pulled pork, roast beef, or even a hearty veggie option like mushroom could work well. Using leftovers makes prep super easy!
Cheese: I love sharp cheddar and provolone for their flavors and melting properties. Gouda or Monterey Jack are good substitutes if you’re looking for different flavors, or you can use just one type of cheese to keep it simple.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for flavor control. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter or even olive oil. Just know that the flavor might change a bit!
Mayonnaise: While optional, mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps with browning. For a lighter touch, you could use Greek yogurt or even mustard for a different twist on flavor.
How Do You Get that Perfectly Crispy Golden Finish?
Creating a crispy, golden grilled cheese is all about managing the heat and time. Here’s how to achieve that crunchy crust:
- Start with medium heat; if it’s too hot, the bread can burn before the cheese melts.
- Don’t skip the spreading of mayonnaise or butter on the outside of the bread. This creates that golden brown finish.
- Keep an eye on the sandwich while cooking. Check for browning at the 4-minute mark and flip only when it reaches a golden color.
- Flipping gently is key; use a spatula to keep everything together as you turn it!
With these tips, you’ll have a beautifully cooked smoked brisket grilled cheese in no time! Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped in crunchy bread.
How to Make Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of thick-cut bread (e.g., Texas toast or sourdough)
- 1 cup smoked brisket, shredded or sliced
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for added creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty smoked brisket grilled cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In just 20 minutes, you can have this delicious sandwich ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Skillet:
Start by preheating your skillet or griddle over medium heat. This is important to ensure your sandwich gets that perfect crispy crust we all love!
2. Prepare the Bread:
If you’re using mayonnaise, spread it on one side of each slice of bread. Mayonnaise adds a delightful creaminess and helps the bread get golden brown when cooking.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Then, layer on your smoked brisket, followed by the provolone cheese, and finish with the remaining cheddar cheese. Place the second slice of bread on top, with the mayonnaise side facing upwards.
4. Cook Your Sandwich:
Carefully place the assembled sandwich in your preheated skillet. Butter the side of the sandwich that’s facing the skillet with one tablespoon of butter. This will help create a deliciously crispy crust!
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Cook the sandwich for about 4-5 minutes or until the bread is golden brown. Flip the sandwich carefully and butter the other side. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until both sides are nicely browned and the cheese is perfectly melted.
6. Slice and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for about a minute. Then, slice it in half and serve immediately. Enjoy your mouth-watering smoked brisket grilled cheese!
Can I Substitute the Cheeses?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and provolone give a great flavor, you can use any cheese you like. Try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for that gooey texture!
What Kind of Bread Works Best?
Thick-cut bread is ideal for this sandwich, but feel free to experiment! Rye or whole grain bread can add unique flavors. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the brisket and cheese without falling apart.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes on each side to get it warmed through without burning the bread.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance! Assemble the sandwich (without the butter) and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply butter the outside and place it in the skillet!
