This tasty smoked brisket grilled cheese is a fun twist on the classic sandwich! With juicy brisket and melty cheese, it’s comfort food at its best.
Honestly, who can resist gooey cheese and tender meat? It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you feel like a superstar chef, even if you just tossed it on the grill! 🥪
I love making this when I’m craving something cozy. Pair it with a warm bowl of soup, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a big hug. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: Thick-cut sourdough adds a great texture. If you can’t find it, consider using ciabatta or even rye bread for a different flavor. I love how the tangy sourdough pairs with the rich brisket.
Smoked Brisket: Use leftover smoked brisket for convenience. If you don’t have brisket, try using pulled pork or even grilled chicken. They both bring tasty flavors, though the experience might be different!
Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella balances sharpness and stretchiness. If you prefer, swap in provolone or gouda for a unique twist. My personal favorite is to add a bit of pepper jack for a kick!
Caramelized Onions: Totally optional but worth trying for added sweetness. If you’re short on time, you could use store-bought French onion dip or even skip this entirely for a simpler sandwich.
How Do You Achieve That Perfectly Crispy Grilled Cheese?
The secret to a well-toasted grilled cheese is all in the butter and heat. First, always use softened butter; this ensures even coating and helps achieve that golden crust.
- Preheat your skillet on medium heat. Too hot and the bread will burn before the cheese melts.
- Butter one side of each slice generously. Don’t skimp—this is where your crunchy goodness comes from!
- Cook slowly—about 3-5 minutes on each side. If needed, lower the heat slightly after flipping to let the cheese melt.
Letting the sandwiches rest before slicing helps keep the cheese gooey. Enjoy your crispy, melty creation!
How to Make Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices of thick-cut sourdough bread
- 1 lb smoked brisket, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup caramelized onions (optional)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 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. So, in total, you’ll need around 20 minutes to enjoy this delicious sandwich.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Skillet:
Start by preheating your skillet or griddle over medium heat. This is going to make sure your sandwiches cook evenly and get beautifully golden brown.
2. Preparing the Bread:
Take your softened butter and spread a nice layer on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. The buttered side will give you that crispy, golden finish, so make sure to cover it well!
3. Layering the Cheese:
On the unbuttered side of four slices of bread, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This cheesy goodness will be the foundation for your delicious sandwich.
4. Adding the Brisket and Onions:
Next, place a generous amount of sliced smoked brisket on top of the cheese layer. If you’re using them, now is the time to add your caramelized onions for an extra flavor kick!
5. Final Cheese Layer:
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the brisket. This will help hold everything together when you grill your sandwich!
6. Closing the Sandwiches:
Now, take the other slices of bread and place them on top, buttered side facing out. This will create your lovely grilled cheese sandwiches.
7. Cooking the Sandwiches:
Place the sandwiches in the heated skillet or griddle. Cook them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes on each side. If the heat is too high, feel free to lower it a bit to let the cheese melt without burning the bread.
8. Resting and Slicing:
Once your sandwiches are beautifully golden, take them out of the skillet and let them rest for a minute. This helps the cheese set just a little.
9. Enjoying Your Creation:
Finally, slice the grilled cheese sandwiches in half and serve them warm. Get ready to enjoy your amazing smoked brisket grilled cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute the cheddar and mozzarella with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure to use cheese that melts well for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this smoked brisket grilled cheese gluten-free, simply swap the sourdough bread for your favorite gluten-free bread. Check the packaging for the best options that provide a similar texture and taste.
What Should I Do If My Bread Is Stale?
If your sourdough is a bit stale, don’t worry! You can revive it by lightly toasting the slices in the oven or on a skillet before assembling your sandwiches. This will help give it a nice crispy texture when grilling.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Cheese?
Store any leftover grilled cheese sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat covered with a lid to help the cheese melt without burning the bread. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes for that crispy texture!
