This grilled cheese takes comfort food to a whole new level with smoky brisket and melty cheese. It’s gooey, savory, and oh-so-delicious!
Who can resist that cheesy, smoky goodness? I mean, this sandwich is like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner. You’ll be craving it again, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: Thick-cut sourdough is perfect for this sandwich as it holds up well to the filling. If you can’t find sourdough, any hearty bread like ciabatta or Texas toast would work just fine.
Smoked Brisket: Shredded smoked brisket gives this sandwich its flavor. If you don’t have brisket, you can use leftover pulled pork or even cooked steak, which will still taste great!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for more flavor. If you need a substitute, gouda or a good quality processed cheese works well too.
Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess to the sandwich. If you’re in a pinch, mozzarella or even pepper jack will work for a savory twist.
Butter: Using softened butter ensures an even coat on the bread. If you want to make it a bit healthier, consider using olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
How Do You Get the Cheese Just Right in a Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
The secret to melty cheese in a grilled cheese sandwich lies in the heat and timing. Make sure your pan is preheated, but not too hot, to prevent burning the bread while the cheese melts.
- Spread the butter generously on the outside of the bread for a golden crust.
- Cook on medium heat to allow the cheese to melt gradually. This usually takes around 3-4 minutes per side.
- For extra melt, cover the skillet for a minute to create steam, helping the cheese get gooey.
After flipping, keep an eye on the second side and only remove the sandwich when it’s golden and the cheese is perfectly melted. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Make Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
- 1 cup smoked brisket, shredded
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce (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 cook. You’ll spend a few minutes setting everything up, and in no time, you’ll be ready to enjoy this cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Start by preheating your skillet or griddle over medium heat. This will ensure that your sandwich gets nice and crispy on the outside while the cheese melts perfectly on the inside.
2. Butter the Bread:
Spread a generous amount of softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This will help the bread toast to a lovely golden brown.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Place one slice of bread in the preheated skillet, butter side down. Start layering with the shredded smoked brisket, spreading it out evenly. Next, pile on the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. If you love a little extra flavor, drizzle the barbecue sauce on top of the cheese.
4. Top it Off:
Now, add the second slice of bread on top, with the butter side facing up. This will create a lovely crispy outer layer for your grilled cheese!
5. Cook the Sandwich:
Let the sandwich cook for about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for a nice golden brown on the bottom and for the cheese to start melting. Once it’s ready, carefully flip the sandwich over and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. You want both sides to be beautifully golden and for the cheese to be fully melted!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the sandwich out of the skillet and let it rest for about a minute. This helps the cheese settle a little so it doesn’t ooze out when you cut it. Slice the sandwich in half, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious smoked brisket grilled cheese! Perfect for a cozy meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have cheddar or Monterey Jack on hand, feel free to use any melty cheese like gouda, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep the total amount of cheese around 1 cup for optimal meltiness!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover grilled cheese, let it cool completely before wrapping it in foil or placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in a skillet over low heat to retain that crispy texture, or use a toaster oven for best results!
Can I Make This with Pre-Cooked Brisket?
Yes, definitely! If you have pre-cooked or leftover brisket, just shred it and use it in the same way. Just make sure to warm the brisket slightly before adding it to the grilled cheese so that everything melts together nicely.
What Can I Serve with Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese?
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side of coleslaw or pickles to balance the richness. You could also serve it with a warm bowl of tomato soup for a classic combination!
