These BBQ Brisket Melts are the absolute best way to use up leftover brisket. We transform tender, smoky brisket into a cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth sandwich that’s packed with flavor. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together in minutes. If you’re looking for an unforgettable leftover brisket recipe, you’ve found it.
This recipe combines shredded brisket with your favorite BBQ sauce, heaps of melted cheese, all sandwiched between two perfectly toasted slices of sourdough bread. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick lunch or an easy weeknight dinner. Get ready to make the best BBQ Brisket Melts of your life!
Why This Is the Best Brisket Melt Recipe
We’ve crafted a recipe that is both simple and incredibly delicious. The key is in the balance of flavors and textures, from the tangy BBQ sauce to the rich, melted cheese and the crispy, buttery bread. This recipe is designed for home cooks who want to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to ensure no delicious leftover brisket goes to waste.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
Making a gourmet brisket grilled cheese is easier than you think. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Leftover Beef Brisket: The star of the show. Chop or shred it for the best texture.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand, whether it’s sweet, spicy, or smoky.
- Sourdough Bread: Its tangy flavor and sturdy texture make it the perfect vessel.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides a classic, bold flavor that pairs perfectly with brisket.
- Provolone Cheese: For that irresistible, gooey cheese pull.
- Unsalted Butter: To achieve that perfectly golden-brown, crispy exterior.
- Optional Add-ins: Caramelized onions, pickled jalapeños, or a smear of garlic aioli.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect BBQ Brisket Melts
Follow these simple steps to sandwich perfection.
- Prep the Brisket: In a small bowl, mix your shredded or chopped leftover brisket with your favorite BBQ sauce until it’s evenly coated. Set aside.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out your sourdough bread slices. Butter one side of each slice. On the un-buttered side of two slices, layer your cheese and the BBQ brisket mixture. Start with a slice of provolone, add a generous helping of the brisket, and top with a slice of sharp cheddar. Place the remaining bread slices on top, butter-side-out.
- Cook the Melt: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwiches onto the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is completely melted and gooey.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the BBQ Brisket Melts from the skillet, slice them in half, and serve immediately.
Choosing the Best Ingredients for Your Melts
The quality of your ingredients will take your sandwich from good to great. Here are a few tips.
The Brisket: Leftovers are King
This recipe is tailor-made for leftover smoked brisket. The smoky flavor is already locked in, making your job easy. Simply shred or chop the cold brisket and you’re ready to go. If you don’t have leftovers, high-quality deli brisket can also work in a pinch.
The Best Bread for a Sturdy Melt
We love sourdough for its tangy flavor and robust structure that holds up to the hearty fillings. Texas toast or a thick-cut brioche would also be fantastic options. The key is to use a bread that is thick enough to not get soggy.
The Ultimate Cheese Pull: Best Cheeses to Use
A combination of cheeses provides the best result. We use sharp cheddar for its bold, tangy flavor and provolone for its superior melting qualities and that classic cheese pull. Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoked gouda would be excellent alternatives.
Pro Tips for a Gourmet Brisket Sandwich
- Don’t Skimp on the Butter: Use real, unsalted butter and spread it evenly from crust to crust. This is the secret to a perfectly golden, crispy exterior.
- Low and Slow Heat: Cook your melt over medium to medium-low heat. This allows the cheese to melt completely without the bread burning.
- Press it Down: Use a spatula to gently press the sandwich down as it cooks. This helps the ingredients meld together and ensures an even crust. If you’re looking for another great cheesy recipe, you should try these Blackstone Steak Quesadillas.
Delicious Variations to Try
Want to customize your BBQ Brisket Melts? Try these delicious additions:
- Caramelized Onions: Add a layer of sweet, jammy caramelized onions for a depth of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Include a few slices of pickled jalapeños for a touch of heat. For a sweet and spicy treat, check out these Jalapeño Cornbread Whoopie Pies (coming soon).
- Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a salty, crispy element that takes this sandwich over the top.
What to Serve with Your Melt
While these BBQ Brisket Melts are a meal in themselves, they pair wonderfully with a few classic sides. Consider serving them with a side of creamy coleslaw, crispy French fries, or a simple green salad. A bowl of tomato soup also makes for a classic and comforting pairing. For a truly decadent dessert to follow up this meal, consider this Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie.
Frequently Asked Questions
A sturdy bread with a nice crust is ideal. Sourdough is our top pick for its tangy flavor and firm texture. Thick-sliced Texas toast or a hearty brioche also work very well to hold all the delicious fillings without getting soggy.
While similar, a classic grilled cheese consists of only cheese, bread, and butter. A melt, like a brisket melt or a patty melt, includes additional ingredients besides cheese, such as meat and sauces. Our BBQ Brisket Melt is a type of grilled cheese, but with the delicious addition of brisket.
Bold cheeses that can stand up to the smoky flavor of brisket work best. We recommend a combination of sharp cheddar for flavor and provolone or Monterey Jack for a great cheese pull. Smoked gouda is also an excellent choice.
The best way to reheat brisket without drying it out is in a skillet. Add the shredded or chopped brisket to a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water and your BBQ sauce. Heat gently until it’s warmed through.
The Ultimate BBQ Brisket Melts Recipe
BBQ Brisket Melts: The Ultimate Leftover Transformation
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped or shredded brisket with the BBQ sauce. Stir until the brisket is fully coated.
- Lay the 4 slices of sourdough bread on a clean surface. Spread the softened butter evenly on one side of each slice. On the un-buttered side of two slices, layer one slice of provolone cheese, half of the brisket mixture, and one slice of cheddar cheese.
- Place the remaining two slices of bread on top, with the buttered side facing up.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove the melts from the skillet. Allow them to rest for a minute before slicing in half and serving immediately.
Notes
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like smoked Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
Share This Amazing Recipe!
We hope you love this recipe for BBQ Brisket Melts as much as we do. It’s the perfect way to enjoy smoky brisket in a whole new way. If you make it, we’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or share a picture of your creation on Pinterest. Your feedback helps us and inspires other home cooks!
