BBQ Brisket Melts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This BBQ Brisket Melt is a flavorful fusion of tender, smoky brisket and melty cheddar cheese, all sandwiched between buttery, golden-brown bread. The best part? It’s incredibly quick and easy to make, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish. Whether you have leftover brisket or are making it fresh, this recipe is a great way to elevate any meal. The optional toppings like red onion and parsley add extra texture and flavor, making this melt both satisfying and customizable.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked brisket, shredded

• ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite)

• 4 slices of bread (sourdough or Texas toast works best)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Brisket: In a bowl, combine the shredded brisket with barbecue sauce. Mix until the brisket is evenly coated.

2. Prepare the Sandwich: Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, layer the BBQ brisket mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese. Optionally, add a few slices of red onion for added flavor.

3. Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches, buttered side down, and grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

4. Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet. If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4 sandwiches

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add more cheese: If you love extra cheese, try adding a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for an even cheesier melt.

• Use different bread: While sourdough and Texas toast work great, you can experiment with other breads like ciabatta or brioche for a unique twist.

• Swap the protein: You can substitute brisket with pulled pork, shredded chicken, or even vegetarian options like sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile.

• Spicy kick: Add some jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to spice things up!

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: If you have leftovers, store the sandwich fillings (brisket and cheese) separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The bread should be stored separately to avoid becoming soggy.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the brisket mixture in a skillet over low heat to warm it up. Re-toast the bread separately, then assemble the sandwich and grill as usual until the cheese is melted.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover brisket for this recipe?

Yes, leftover brisket works perfectly in this recipe! Simply shred it and mix it with barbecue sauce for a quick and easy sandwich filling.

2. What kind of barbecue sauce should I use?

You can use any barbecue sauce you like. A smoky or sweet variety tends to pair well with brisket, but feel free to choose one that fits your taste preferences.

3. Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prep the brisket and cheese ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving to maintain the crispy texture of the bread.

4. How do I make this sandwich spicier?

To add some heat, try adding sliced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce along with the barbecue sauce.

5. Can I freeze this recipe?

It's not recommended to freeze the assembled sandwich, as the bread will lose its texture. However, you can freeze the brisket mixture and reheat it when you're ready to make the sandwiches.

6. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the brisket with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar works wonderfully in this recipe, you can use other types like provolone, mozzarella, or gouda for a different flavor.

8. How can I make this sandwich more filling?

For a heartier sandwich, you can add extra toppings like crispy bacon, a fried egg, or even avocado slices for additional flavor and texture.

9. What can I serve with this sandwich?

This sandwich pairs great with side dishes like coleslaw, crispy fries, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

10. How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Make sure the brisket mixture is not too wet before adding it to the bread. Also, grilling the sandwich on medium heat helps keep the bread crispy without getting soggy.

Conclusion

This BBQ Brisket Melt is the ultimate comfort food for those who love bold flavors and gooey cheese. With its easy prep and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re using leftover brisket or making it fresh, this sandwich is sure to satisfy. Add your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a meal that’s as delicious as it is comforting. Enjoy!