Are you tired of throwing away that delicious, yet dwindling, chunk of brisket from last night’s dinner? Think again! With these 20 mouthwatering and easy recipes, you’ll be able to transform your leftover brisket into a culinary masterpiece. From tacos and quesadillas to breakfast burritos and mac ‘n cheese, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’re shining the spotlight on the humble leftover brisket, showcasing its versatility in 20 scrumptious dishes that are sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a fan of spicy, savory, or sweet flavors, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. So go ahead, get creative, and turn that once-discarded brisket into a feast fit for the gods! Stay tuned for our first 10 recipes, including Brisket Tacos with Avocado Crema, Brisket Fried Rice with Vegetables, and many more.
Brisket Tacos with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the tender, fall-apart texture of slow-cooked brisket with the creaminess of avocado crema, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. It’s a game-changer for your next Taco Tuesday or impromptu gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced onions, cilantro
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season brisket with chili powder, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place brisket in a slow cooker or Dutch oven; cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
4. Shred brisket with two forks; warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning brisket onto tortillas, topping with Avocado Crema, and adding optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker or Dutch oven) + 5 minutes (warming tortillas)
Brisket Fried Rice with Vegetables
Elevate your fried rice game with this hearty dish featuring tender brisket and a medley of colorful vegetables. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover roast beef or cooking up some fresh brisket specifically for this meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced brisket
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg; scramble until cooked through. Mix with the vegetables.
5. Add the cooked brisket and soy sauce to the other side of the pan. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, breaking up any large pieces.
6. Combine the brisket mixture with the vegetable-egg mixture. Stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute, until well combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Brisket and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the rich flavors of brisket with melted cheese and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound beef brisket, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked brisket, cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the brisket mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Brisket Hash with Fried Eggs
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the rich flavor of slow-cooked brisket with crispy hash browns and a fried egg on top.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket, fat side up
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups hash brown potatoes, peeled and grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on both sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and cook the brisket for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. While the brisket cooks, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add grated hash browns and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
6. Fry eggs in the same skillet until the whites are set and yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
7. Assemble by shredding the brisket into bite-sized pieces, placing on top of the hash browns, and topping with a fried egg.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours (including oven time).
Brisket Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the tender, flavorful brisket with the comforting warmth of shepherd’s pie. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer it to a slow cooker.
4. Add the onion, garlic, beef broth, peas and carrots, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Mash the potatoes according to package instructions.
6. Transfer the brisket mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (slow cooker) + 25-30 minutes (oven)
Brisket Quesadillas with Spicy Salsa
Transform tender brisket into a flavorful quesadilla filled with melted cheese and served with a spicy kick. This recipe is perfect for a twist on traditional tacos or as a unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound slow-cooked brisket, shredded
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy salsa (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together brisket, cheese, and cilantro.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the brisket mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Serve with spicy salsa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brisket and Potato Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a hearty breakfast burrito packed with tender brisket, crispy potatoes, and creamy scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound brisket (cooked), shredded
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 eggs
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas (8-10 inches)
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, scramble eggs with salt and pepper. Set aside.
3. On a baking sheet, toss diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by filling tortillas with scrambled eggs, shredded brisket, roasted potatoes, and shredded cheese. Add desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brisket Chili with Beans
This rich and comforting chili recipe combines tender brisket with a medley of beans and spices, perfect for a chilly evening or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the brisket in a large pot over medium-high heat, then set aside.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook 1 minute.
4. Add cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and browned brisket back to the pot.
5. Simmer for 30-40 minutes or until brisket is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Brisket Mac and Cheese
A twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe adds tender brisket to create a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for a cozy night in. With its creamy sauce and rich flavors, this comfort food is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 lb brisket, cooked and shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, brisket, and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brisket Sliders with Pickles and BBQ Sauce
Take a bite of tender brisket, topped with tangy pickles and sweet BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in a soft slider bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket
– 4 slider buns
– 1/4 cup pickle slices
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt and pepper.
3. Place the brisket in a baking dish and bake for 2-3 hours, or until tender.
4. Slice the brisket into thin strips.
5. Split the slider buns in half.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing a few slices of brisket on each bun, followed by a spoonful of BBQ sauce and a few pickle slices.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (brisket), 5 minutes (assembling sliders)
Brisket Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Elevate your baked potato game with tender brisket and creamy toppings. This comforting recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 pound beef brisket, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each one with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and season with salt.
4. Bake the potatoes for about 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, mix together the shredded brisket, sour cream, and cheddar cheese in a bowl.
6. When the potatoes are done, slice them open lengthwise and top each one with the brisket mixture, chopped chives, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Brisket and Cheddar Omelette
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the rich flavors of brisket with the creaminess of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced brisket (cooked and shredded)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Heat the butter in a medium-sized non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and let it cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle the diced brisket and shredded cheddar cheese evenly across half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently lift the edges of the omelette and tilt the skillet so the uncooked egg can flow underneath.
6. Once the eggs are almost set, use the spatula to fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
7. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are fully cooked.
8. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Brisket Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this unique combination of tender brisket and sweet caramelized onions on a crispy crust. A perfect fusion of flavors and textures!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb brisket, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the brisket and onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and tender (about 30 minutes).
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
4. Top the crust with cooked brisket mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brisket Nachos with Jalapeños and Cheese
Elevate your nacho game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines tender brisket, crispy tortilla chips, spicy jalapeños, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4-6 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook brisket according to package instructions or slow-cook in BBQ sauce for 3-4 hours.
3. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
4. Spread refried beans over the chips.
5. Slice cooked brisket into thin strips and place on top of beans.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the brisket.
7. Top with sliced jalapeños.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Add optional toppings and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including brisket cooking time)
Brisket and Egg Breakfast Sandwich
Start your day off right with a savory breakfast sandwich featuring tender brisket, scrambled eggs, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket, thinly sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cheddar cheese, avocado, or hot sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the brisket slices with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook the brisket over medium-high heat until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. While the brisket cooks, scramble the eggs in a separate bowl. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading butter on each bread slice, then topping with a slice of brisket, scrambled eggs, and any desired add-ins (cheddar cheese, avocado, or hot sauce).
6. Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Brisket Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A comforting twist on the classic pot pie, this recipe combines tender brisket with a rich beef broth and flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound brisket, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas and carrots)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook brisket strips in olive oil until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add beef broth, mixed vegetables, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked brisket strips.
6. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Spoon brisket mixture into a pie dish; top with pastry, crimping edges to seal.
7. Brush pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and cut a few slits in the top for steam release.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Brisket Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
This comforting bowl of goodness combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked brisket, savory ramen noodles, and creamy soft-boiled eggs. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a satisfying meal any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 eggs
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Season the brisket with salt, pepper, and sugar.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, sake, and browned brisket. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
3. Braise for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
4. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
5. Boil eggs for 6-7 minutes, then immediately submerge in an ice bath to stop cooking.
6. Assemble the bowls by placing sliced brisket on top of cooked noodles, finishing with a soft-boiled egg and garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4 hours (including braising time)
Brisket Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the bold flavor of slow-cooked brisket. This sandwich is a match made in heaven, combining tender beef with melted cheddar and gooey Swiss.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound slow-cooked brisket (see note), thinly sliced
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a few slices of brisket, some shredded cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of Swiss cheese.
5. Place another bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Brisket and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the tender, slow-cooked goodness of brisket with the bold flavors of black beans and enchilada sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 cup enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional: sour cream, diced tomatoes, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add brisket and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add black beans, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble enchiladas by placing sliced brisket, black bean mixture, and shredded cheese onto each tortilla.
7. Place assembled enchiladas into a baking dish and cover with remaining enchilada sauce.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Brisket Stir-Fry with Noodles and Veggies
Savor the flavors of Asia-inspired comfort food with this easy-to-make brisket stir-fry recipe, featuring tender noodles and a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cooked noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add brisket strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the same pan; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and broccoli; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return brisket to the pan and add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Serve over cooked noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with leftover brisket! This article shares 20 delicious and easy recipes to transform your leftover brisket into mouth-watering dishes. From tacos and quesadillas to hash and shepherd’s pie, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy brisket stuffed peppers, baked potatoes, or breakfast burritos. Try it in mac and cheese, chili, or even pizza. Whether you like spicy, cheesy, or savory flavors, these recipes will inspire you to repurpose your leftover brisket into a culinary masterpiece.
