Name: BBQ Brisket Melts
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brisket, shredded; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 4 slices sourdough or Texas toast; 1 tablespoon butter, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional); 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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I love making these BBQ Brisket Melts when I want something hearty, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. This sandwich is packed with smoky barbecue brisket and gooey cheddar cheese, all grilled between crispy, buttery slices of bread. Every bite is rich, savory, and perfectly comforting.

BBQ Brisket Melts

Ingredients

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

2 cups cooked brisket, shredded

½ cup barbecue sauce

4 slices sourdough or Texas toast

1 tablespoon butter, softened

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

I start by combining the shredded brisket and barbecue sauce in a medium bowl. I mix everything together until the meat is evenly coated and glossy.

Next, I butter one side of each slice of bread. I place the bread slices butter-side down on a clean surface so they’re ready to be filled.

I evenly divide the BBQ brisket mixture between two slices of bread. Then I top the brisket with shredded cheddar cheese and add thinly sliced red onion if I want a little extra flavor and texture.

I place the remaining slices of bread on top, making sure the buttered sides face outward.

I heat a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, I place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook them for about 4–5 minutes per side. I wait until the bread turns golden brown and crisp and the cheese melts completely.

Finally, I remove the sandwiches from the skillet, sprinkle them with fresh parsley if I’m using it, slice them in half, and serve them warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Each serving contains approximately 400 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes switch the cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack when I want a different flavor profile. Both melt beautifully and add their own unique twist.

If I want extra crunch, I add sliced pickles or even a few crispy fried onions inside the sandwich. For a spicier kick, I mix a little hot sauce into the barbecue brisket mixture.

When I’m feeding a crowd, I turn this into open-faced melts and bake them in the oven until bubbly and golden.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When I reheat them, I prefer using a skillet over medium-low heat to keep the bread crisp. I avoid the microwave when possible because it can make the bread soft, but if I’m short on time, I microwave briefly and then crisp the sandwich in a hot pan for a minute or two.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought brisket?

Yes, I often use leftover or store-bought cooked brisket. I just make sure it’s tender and shred it before mixing it with the barbecue sauce.

What type of bread works best?

I like using sourdough or Texas toast because they’re sturdy and hold up well to the filling. Thick-cut white bread also works nicely.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I prefer assembling and cooking the sandwiches fresh, but I can prepare the brisket mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until I’m ready to grill.

How do I keep the sandwich from burning?

I cook the sandwich over medium heat and avoid turning the heat too high. Cooking slowly allows the cheese to melt completely while the bread turns golden instead of dark.

Can I freeze BBQ Brisket Melts?

I don’t recommend freezing the fully assembled sandwiches because the texture of the bread can change. However, I can freeze the cooked brisket separately and thaw it when needed.

Conclusion

I find these BBQ Brisket Melts to be the ultimate comfort sandwich. They’re quick, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether I’m making a fast lunch or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe never disappoints. The smoky brisket, melty cheddar, and crispy bread come together in the most delicious way, and I always look forward to making them again.

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BBQ Brisket Melts

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Halal

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Description

These BBQ Brisket Melts are hearty, cheesy sandwiches packed with smoky barbecue brisket and melted cheddar, grilled between crispy, buttery slices of bread. Perfect for a quick and satisfying comfort meal.