Imagine this: Tender, juicy brisket slow-cooked in rich bourbon and sweet maple syrup, nestled between layers of melted cheddar cheese, all hugged by buttery grilled bread—then sandwiched between two golden waffles. Yes, it’s as incredible as it sounds. The Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich is not just a mouthful to say—it’s a mouthful to savor. This indulgent twist on classic comfort food takes grilled cheese to a whole new level.
🥩 Why Brisket?
Brisket is a cut of beef that, when cooked low and slow, becomes irresistibly tender and flavorful. It’s perfect for absorbing the deep caramel notes of bourbon and the subtle sweetness of maple syrup. When shredded and layered into a sandwich, it adds a rich, meaty backbone that makes this dish hearty enough for any appetite.
🧀 The Perfect Cheese Pull
Cheddar cheese brings sharpness and creaminess to this sandwich. Its ability to melt smoothly and create that iconic cheese pull makes it the ideal choice to complement the savory brisket. You can also experiment with a mix—try adding mozzarella for melt or gouda for smoky depth.
🧇 Waffle Meets Grilled Cheese
Instead of serving the grilled cheese on its own, the recipe adds a genius twist: place the whole sandwich between two crispy waffles. This not only adds texture and flair but also transforms the dish into a brunch-worthy showstopper. The slight sweetness of waffles echoes the maple in the brisket, tying all the flavors together.
🍴 Full Recipe: Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich
Ingredients:
For the Brisket:
- 1 lb (450 g) beef brisket
- 1 cup bourbon
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices of bread (thick-cut recommended)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Butter (for grilling)
- 4 waffles (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Brisket:
Place brisket in a slow cooker. Pour in bourbon and maple syrup. Cook on low for 8 hours, or until the meat is tender and shreds easily. Once cooked, remove and shred the brisket with two forks.
2. Make the Grilled Cheese:
Butter one side of each bread slice. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one slice of bread butter side down, top with cheese, a layer of shredded brisket, and another bread slice butter side up. Grill until golden and crispy on both sides, and cheese is melted.
3. Assemble the Wafflewich:
Heat or toast waffles according to package or recipe instructions. Sandwich one grilled cheese between two waffles to complete the Wafflewich.
4. Serve:
Serve immediately while hot. Optionally, drizzle extra maple syrup over the top, or serve with a spicy maple dipping sauce on the side.
🍁 Pairings & Tips
- Drink Pairing: Try with a glass of bourbon on the rocks, a smoky stout, or even a vanilla cream soda.
- Make it spicy: Add a slice of pickled jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce inside for a spicy kick.
- Want more crunch? Add crispy onions or coleslaw inside the sandwich for an extra texture contrast.
🎉 Final Thoughts
The Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich is an unforgettable combination of Southern charm and modern comfort. Whether you’re hosting brunch, treating yourself to something indulgent, or surprising friends with something wildly creative, this dish is guaranteed to turn heads and satisfy cravings.