Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich

When grilled cheese, brisket, and waffles join forces, something magical happens. Enter the Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich—a mouthwatering mash-up that’s bold, gooey, and a little sweet. Imagine slow-cooked brisket drenched in bourbon and maple syrup, layered into melty grilled cheese, then sandwiched between crispy waffles. It’s part Southern comfort, part brunch indulgence, and all-around irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just treating yourself to a sandwich that doesn’t hold back, this wafflewich delivers satisfaction in every bite. You’re about to upgrade your grilled cheese game in the most epic way.

Why You’ll Crave This Recipe

This Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich is more than a sandwich—it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll love it:

  • Flavor Explosion: The sweet and smoky bourbon-maple brisket is perfectly balanced with savory cheese and crispy waffles.
  • Beginner-Friendly: The slow cooker does the heavy lifting. The rest is simple assembly!
  • Totally Unique: Combines comfort food classics in a way that’s both playful and gourmet.
  • Flexible Ingredients: Works with different breads, cheeses, or even leftover brisket.

You don’t need to be a pro chef to whip up something that tastes this impressive.

The Story Behind the Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich

The Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich may sound like a modern invention, but it’s rooted in comfort food traditions:

  • Brisket is king in Southern BBQ culture—slow-cooked and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
  • Bourbon and maple bring a sweet, smoky twist often found in regional glazes and sauces.
  • Wafflewiches took off in food trucks and brunch spots, combining crispy waffles with savory fillings.
  • Grilled cheese evolution: What started as a childhood classic gets a grown-up twist with gourmet add-ins like brisket and bold sauces.
Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich

What You’ll Need to Make the Perfect Wafflewich

For the Bourbon-Maple Brisket:

  • 1 lb brisket
  • 1 cup bourbon
  • ½ cup maple syrup

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

  • 8 slices of bread (sourdough, brioche, or your favorite type)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mix with mozzarella or Gouda)
  • Butter, softened

And for the Wafflewich Assembly:

  • 4 waffles (store-bought or homemade)

How to Make a Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich

Step 1: Slow-Cook the Brisket

Place the brisket in a slow cooker. Pour in the bourbon and maple syrup to coat evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
Shred the brisket and set it aside. Optionally, reserve the liquid for drizzling later.

Step 2: Assemble the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Butter one side of each slice of bread.
In a skillet over medium heat, place one slice butter-side down.
Layer with cheese, a portion of the shredded brisket, and top with another slice (butter side up).
Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and melty. Repeat to make 4 sandwiches.

Step 3: Prepare the Waffles

Toast the waffles according to the package instructions or until golden and slightly crisp.

Step 4: Build the Wafflewiches

Place each grilled cheese sandwich between two waffles. Press gently to hold them together.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot, with an optional drizzle of the reserved bourbon-maple sauce.
Pair with slaw, pickles, or a fresh salad for a full meal.

Tips and Twists

Make your Wafflewich even better with these tips:

Cooking Tips:

  1. Choose thick-sliced bread that won’t fall apart when grilled.
  2. Use a panini press for even toasting and gooey centers.
  3. Let the brisket cool slightly before assembling the sandwiches—it’s easier to handle.
  4. Don’t skimp on butter—it creates that golden crunch.
  5. Add a dash of black pepper or chili flakes for a kick.

Variations:

  • Sweet Heat: Add jalapeños or hot honey to balance the sweetness.
  • Breakfast Vibe: Slide in a fried egg for a brunch-worthy upgrade.
  • Veggie Boost: Add sautéed onions or spinach for a bit of green.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips for Your Wafflewich

Storage: Store leftover brisket and grilled cheese components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the wafflewich in a toaster oven or skillet until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving—it softens the textures.

Make-Ahead: Slow-cook the brisket a day ahead. Assemble and cook the wafflewiches fresh for best results.

What to Serve with a Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich

Turn this Wafflewich into a full-blown meal with these pairings:

  • Crispy Amish Onion Fritters: Crunchy, savory bites that match the richness of the sandwich.
  • Roasted Broccoli and Carrots: Add a healthy, colorful side to balance things out.
  • Simple Coleslaw: A cool, tangy contrast to the warm, cheesy main.
  • Sweet Iced Tea or Cold Brew: Southern-style drinks to round out your meal.
  • Pickles or Pickled Onions: Add a burst of acidity to cut through the richness.

FAQ About Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich

Can I use leftover brisket?
Yes! Just warm it in a skillet with a splash of maple syrup and bourbon.

What’s the best bread for this sandwich?
Sourdough or brioche—anything sturdy enough to hold the fillings.

Is there a non-alcoholic option for the bourbon?
Try apple juice with a splash of vanilla for similar depth.

Can I use frozen waffles?
Absolutely—just toast them well so they stay crispy.

Can this be made gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread and waffles, and ensure your sauces are GF-certified.

Enjoy Your Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich

Once you try this Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich, you’ll never look at sandwiches the same way again. It’s a flavor-packed, comforting, and just a little over-the-top creation that brings people to the table. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it solo, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite for whenever you’re craving something seriously satisfying. So go ahead—fire up that skillet, grab the waffles, and build your new favorite sandwich.

Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich
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Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich

This Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich brings bold flavor with tender slow-cooked brisket, melty cheese, and crispy waffles. Perfect for brunch or dinner, it’s a fun and satisfying upgrade for sandwich lovers.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword bourbon-maple brisket grilled cheese wafflewich, comfort food sandwich, slow cooker brisket, sweet and savory sandwich, waffle sandwich
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 620kcal
Author Abby Marlow

Ingredients

For the Bourbon-Maple Brisket:

  • 1 lb brisket
  • 1 cup bourbon
  • ½ cup maple syrup

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

  • 8 slices sourdough or brioche bread
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella/Gouda mix
  • Butter, softened

For the Wafflewich Assembly:

  • 4 waffles store-bought or homemade

Instructions

  • Place brisket in a slow cooker. Pour in bourbon and maple syrup to coat evenly.
  • Cook on low for 8 hours until the brisket is fork-tender. Shred and set aside.
  • Butter one side of each bread slice. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  • Layer cheese and shredded brisket between two bread slices, buttered sides out.
  • Cook each sandwich 2–3 minutes per side until golden and the cheese melts.
  • Toast waffles until crisp.
  • Place each grilled cheese sandwich between two waffles and press gently.
  • Serve warm, optionally drizzling reserved bourbon-maple sauce on top.

Notes

Tip: Use a panini press for extra crispy texture.
Variation: Add jalapeños for a spicy twist on your Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich.
Nutrition:
Calories: ~620 per serving (estimate)
Carbs: 45g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 12g

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