Let’s break down the name—Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Waffle Sandwich. Sounds like a mouthful, right? But it’s also a mouthful of amazing flavor! Why “waffle sandwich”? Well, because sometimes bread just isn’t fun enough and waffles add that extra crunch and sweetness. The bourbon and maple don’t just sound fancy—they mingle with the savory brisket for a sweet-and-smoky taste you’ll crave. Did we mention that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach? Try serving this, and you’ll have fans for life! Give your classic grilled cheese a playful upgrade, and see why everyone’s talking about it—now’s the time to try it yourself!
Why You’ll Love This
The biggest highlight here is the delicious collision of flavors—smoky, sweet, cheesy, and buttery, all in harmony. Making it yourself means big savings and total control—you can pile on as much brisket and cheese as you want, and you’ll skip the hefty restaurant bill. What truly sets this sandwich apart is the juicy sliced brisket married with bourbon-maple syrup, all tucked between golden waffles and oozing cheese. It’s a flavor-packed, indulgent treat for any day of the week. If you’re a fan of our BBQ Chicken Waffle Sliders, you’ll find this sandwich just as showstopping (maybe even more!), and it’s sure to become a repeat request. Go ahead and make it at home—your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Waffle Sandwich
Quick Overview
This Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Waffle Sandwich is as easy as it is satisfying! There’s minimal prep work (especially if you’re using store-bought waffles or leftover brisket), and the whole dish comes together in about 30 minutes. Get ready for a sandwich that’s crispy, gooey, and bursting with savory and sweet notes—perfect for a quick meal that feels like a guilty pleasure.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked brisket, sliced thin (store-bought or homemade, gently reheated if cold)
- 4 waffles (store-bought or homemade; regular or Belgian style work well)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (or any melting cheese you love)
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened, divided)
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Warm the Brisket
If your brisket is chilled, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat until heated through. - Make the Bourbon-Maple Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the bourbon and maple syrup. Bring to a gentle simmer and stir occasionally until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes. Set aside. - Toast the Waffles
Toast the waffles until crisp and lightly golden, either in a toaster or oven. - Assemble the Sandwiches
On two waffles, layer one slice of cheese, a generous amount of warm brisket, and drizzle with bourbon-maple glaze. Top with another slice of cheese and close with a second waffle. - Butter and Grill
Spread softened butter on the top sides of the sandwiches. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low and place the sandwiches butter-side-down. Butter the other sides while the bottoms grill. Press gently with a spatula and cook until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted, about 2–3 minutes per side. - Serve
Slice the sandwiches in half, drizzle with more glaze or maple syrup if desired, and serve hot!
What to Serve Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Waffle Sandwich With
Pair this indulgent sandwich with:
- Crispy sweet potato fries
- Creamy or tangy coleslaw
- Apple-cabbage slaw for a fresh crunch
- Pickled red onions or dill pickles
- A glass of iced tea, ginger ale, or a bourbon cocktail for the adults
These pairings balance out the richness of the sandwich and turn it into a complete and satisfying meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Substitute the brisket with pulled pork, roast beef, or shredded rotisserie chicken if needed.
- Choose the right cheese—melters like gouda, cheddar, Swiss, or even provolone are all great.
- Use apple juice in place of bourbon for a kid-friendly glaze that still brings the flavor.
- Keep waffles crisp by toasting them well and cooling the brisket slightly before assembly.
- Want extra crunch? Add crispy fried onions or a handful of arugula inside the sandwich.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- To store: Wrap sandwiches tightly in foil or keep in an airtight container. Refrigerate up to 2 days.
- To reheat: Use a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to regain crispness.
- To freeze: Cool completely, wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven until warmed through.
FAQs
How can I make this kid-friendly?
Just skip the bourbon and use apple juice in the glaze. It keeps the sweetness without the alcohol.
Can I use frozen waffles?
Absolutely! Just toast them until golden before using.
What’s the best way to slice brisket for sandwiches?
Always slice thin and against the grain using a sharp knife—this keeps the meat tender and easy to bite into.
Can I prep it in advance?
Yes! Assemble the sandwiches ahead and refrigerate. Grill when ready to serve for best results.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Try sliced grilled portobellos or jackfruit with the glaze for a meat-free twist!
Conclusion
The Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Waffle Sandwich is more than just a mashup—it’s a bold, satisfying, and unforgettable flavor experience. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is a hit for family meals, weekend indulgence, or impressing guests. Crispy waffles, juicy brisket, melty cheese, and that sweet bourbon-maple glaze—what’s not to love? Try it once and you’ll be hooked! And don’t forget to browse our recipe collection for more comfort food classics with a twist. Happy cooking and even happier eating!