This Easy Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on a classic favorite. With rich, smoky brisket and gooey melted cheese, it hits the spot every time!
I love how quickly it comes together! Just layer that brisket and cheese between buttered bread and grill until golden. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I prefer thick-cut white or sourdough bread for their sturdiness, which holds up well against the savory filling. You can also use whole-grain or gluten-free bread if that’s what you have on hand!
Smoked Brisket: Using leftover smoked brisket is perfect here. If you don’t have brisket, shredded rotisserie chicken or even pulled pork can be a great alternative.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its beautiful melting quality. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack adds extra creaminess. Feel free to swap in gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.
Butter: Softened butter is best for spreading on the bread. If you’re looking to lighten it up, use olive oil instead for a tasty crispiness.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Golden and Crispy Grilled Cheese?
The key to a delightful grilled cheese is cooking it low and slow. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat on your skillet. Too high and you risk burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- Butter the bread generously. It helps create that delicious crust. You can even add a sprinkle of garlic powder to the butter for an extra flavor boost.
- Flip carefully! Use a wide spatula and slide it under the sandwich to support it as you turn. This prevents the filling from spilling out.
Letting the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice without the fillings oozing out. Enjoy your grilling adventure!
Easy Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut white bread or sourdough bread
- 1 ½ cups smoked brisket, thinly sliced or shredded
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- Optional: Pickles or BBQ sauce for serving
Time Needed
This delicious grilled cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, so you can have a wonderful meal ready in just 20 minutes!
Instructions
1. Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve a nice golden-brown crust on the bread.
2. Prepare the Bread
Butter one side of each slice of bread generously. This buttered side will create a crispy, delicious crust when grilled!
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
Place 4 slices of bread, butter-side down, onto the skillet. Each slice will be the bottom of the sandwiches. Evenly distribute the shredded smoked brisket on each of these bread slices. Then, top the brisket with a generous handful of shredded cheese.
4. Top and Grill
Cover each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, butter side up. Careful not to squash them too much! Cook the sandwiches until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese begins to melt, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Flip them carefully to prevent the filling from spilling out. Use a wide spatula for support if needed.
5. Finish Up
Once both sides are golden and the cheese has melted, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Allow them to rest for about a minute to make slicing easier.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Slice the grilled cheese sandwiches in half and serve with optional pickles or BBQ sauce for dipping. Enjoy your smoky, melty, satisfying smoked brisket grilled cheese sandwich!
FAQ for Easy Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese
Can I Use Leftover Brisket?
Absolutely! Leftover smoked brisket works wonderfully in this recipe. Just ensure it’s sliced thinly or shredded for easy melting and a good bite.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Brisket?
No worries! You can substitute it with other meats like pulled pork, oven-roasted chicken, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms for a delicious twist.
Can I Prepare This Sandwich in Advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh for the gooey cheese texture, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate. Just be sure to cook them right before serving!
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 them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and crispy again. Enjoy!
