Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich was born out of a happy kitchen accident. I was just trying to clear out the fridge before a long weekend. I had leftover brisket from my dad’s birthday dinner, a few slices of cheddar, and some frozen waffles my kids begged me to buy. What happened next? Pure magic. The kids were speechless, my husband asked for seconds, and now it’s our go-to when we want something indulgent and unforgettable. It’s comfort food with a twist sweet, savory, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Waffle Iron or Toaster
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Brisket well-marbled for best results
- 1 cup Apple Juice with a splash of vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup Pure Maple Syrup
- 8 slices Bread thick and sturdy like sourdough or Texas toast
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese sharp cheddar recommended
- 4 Waffles store-bought or homemade, toasted
- Butter for grilling the sandwiches
Instructions
- Place the brisket in a slow cooker. Pour in the apple juice and maple syrup. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until the meat is tender and shreds easily.
- Once cooked, shred the brisket using two forks and set aside.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread. In a skillet over medium heat, place one slice butter-side down. Layer with cheddar, shredded brisket, more cheddar, then top with another bread slice butter-side up.
- Grill the sandwich on both sides until golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Toast the waffles and use two of them to sandwich the grilled cheese, turning it into a wafflewich.
- Serve hot. Optional: drizzle with leftover brisket juices for extra flavor.
What You’ll Need to Bring It to Life
- 1 lb brisket – Choose a piece with good marbling. It makes all the difference!
- 1 cup apple juice with a splash of vanilla extract – Adds that perfect sweet depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup – Don’t skimp here. The real stuff gives the brisket its dreamy, caramelized glaze.
- 8 slices of bread – I like using a sturdy sourdough or thick white bread.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar brings the tang that balances all the richness.
- 4 waffles – Frozen is fine! Just toast them until they’re golden and crisp.
- Butter – For that golden crunch on the grilled cheese. Use butter, not oil trust me, it’s grandma’s trick!
You can also use gluten-free bread and waffles to make it celiac-friendly. The goal here is comfort, not perfection.
More tasty ideas: Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice
How I Make This Step-by-Step in My Kitchen
- Slow cook the brisket. I pop it into the slow cooker with the apple juice and maple syrup first thing in the morning. Low for 8 hours makes it fork-tender.
- Shred it up. Once it’s done, I take two forks and pull it apart. The smell alone makes the whole house feel like a hug.
- Butter the bread. Don’t be shy butter the outside of each slice. This gives you that gorgeous golden crunch.
- Assemble the grilled cheese. Lay down a slice of bread (butter side down), sprinkle cheddar, add brisket, then more cheese, and top with another slice (butter side up).
- Grill it. Medium heat, a few minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for that melty magic.
- Toast the waffles. While the sandwiches cook, I heat the waffles until crisp. This adds a fun, sweet crunch.
- Build the wafflewich. Sandwich the grilled cheese between two warm waffles. Now you’ve got the ultimate Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich.
Our Favorite Way to Serve and Enjoy It
We love serving these with coleslaw or sweet potato fries. And honestly, a drizzle of that leftover brisket cooking liquid over the top takes it to the next level. For brunch, I’ll fry an egg and stack it on top. That’s a serious Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich move.
What I’ve Learned from Little Mistakes Along the Way
Once, I used pancake syrup instead of maple syrup. Never again! The fake stuff burned and gave the brisket a bitter aftertaste. Also, don’t rush the cheese melt. Keep the skillet on medium and give it time.
How I Keep It Fresh for Later Moments of Joy
If we have leftovers (rare!), I wrap sandwiches in foil and refrigerate. To reheat, I pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. You can also freeze cooked brisket for a quick Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich night. Just thaw and reheat.
Why This Recipe Means So Much to Me
This Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich reminds me that kitchen creativity brings joy. It blends my family’s love of slow-cooked meat, cheesy comfort food, and playful breakfast-for-dinner flair. It’s a guaranteed smile-maker.
Your Questions Answered About This Recipe
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the brisket the day before and reheat gently. Perfect for assembling a Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich on a busy night.
What’s the best cheese for this?
Sharp cheddar is ideal, but Monterey Jack or Swiss work great too.
Can I use a different bread?
Absolutely. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold the fillings.
Do I need a waffle maker?
Nope! Frozen waffles work perfectly—just toast until crisp.
Is there a non-alcohol version?
Yes! Swap bourbon with apple juice and a splash of vanilla for that depth of flavor.
From My Kitchen to Yours
I hope this Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. It’s cozy, fun, and packed with flavor exactly the kind of meal that makes ordinary days feel special. If you give it a try, tag me or leave a comment. I’d love to see your delicious creations and hear how it turned out in your kitchen!
More tasty ideas: Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps: The Cheesy Snack My Family Can’t Get Enough Of
