Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting breakfast that combines the best of two worlds—creamy mac and cheese and hearty breakfast staples—look no further than this Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe! Imagine the irresistible combination of cavatappi pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce, mixed with savory breakfast sausage, and topped with a crunchy biscuit crumble. It’s the ultimate way to start your day, and it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Reasons to Love Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe
Breakfast Mac and Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:
- Comfort Food Redefined: Combining the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with breakfast favorites creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap in different kinds of cheese to make it your own!
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week for an easy breakfast option!
The Essentials
To whip up this delightful Breakfast Mac and Cheese, you’ll need some key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 1 pound of cavatappi pasta: This spiral-shaped pasta holds the cheese sauce perfectly.
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage: Choose your favorite brand, just remove the casings and crumble it up.
- 1 large onion: Diced for a touch of sweetness and flavor.
- 1 red pepper: Adds color and a mild sweetness.
- 1 jalapeño pepper: For a bit of heat; remember to discard the seeds if you want to keep it mild.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 4 tablespoons butter: For richness in the cheese sauce.
- 6 tablespoons flour: To create the roux for the sauce.
- 4 cups whole milk: Makes the cheese sauce creamy and luscious.
- 2 cups shredded colby jack cheese: A creamy, mild cheese that melts beautifully.
- 2 cups pepper jack cheese: Adds a spicy kick to the dish.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese: For that classic cheesy flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 4 eggs: Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness.
- 5 or 6 toasted breakfast biscuits: Crumbled for a delightful topping.
Setup & Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the following equipment ready:
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Large skillet: To cook the sausage and vegetables.
- Whisk: For mixing the cheese sauce.
- Baking dish: To assemble and bake your mac and cheese.
- Mixing spoon: For stirring the ingredients together.
- Oven: Preheated to 350°F for baking the finished dish.
Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your Breakfast Mac and Cheese.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the crumbled breakfast sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add the diced onion, red pepper, and jalapeño pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is fully cooked. Season with garlic salt, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the colby jack cheese, pepper jack cheese, and sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sausage and vegetable mixture, and the cheese sauce. Mix until everything is well-coated.
Step 5: Add the Eggs
In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add the beaten eggs to the pasta mixture, stirring quickly to combine. This will help bind the dish together.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 7: Top with Crumbled Biscuits
Crumble the toasted breakfast biscuits over the top of the mac and cheese for a crunchy finish.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking for a low-carb or keto-friendly version of this Breakfast Mac and Cheese, here are some swaps you can make:
- Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets instead of pasta for a low-carb alternative.
- Replace the milk with unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream to lower the carb content.
- Substitute the breakfast sausage with a low-carb sausage option.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for a lower carb cheese option.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
When making your Breakfast Mac and Cheese, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: Aim for al dente pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Not seasoning enough: Make sure to season each component of the dish for balanced flavor.
- Rushing the cheese sauce: Take your time to ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Skipping the egg: The egg helps bind the dish, so don’t forget to include it!
Storage & Reheat Guide
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but just in case!), here’s how to store and reheat your Breakfast Mac and Cheese:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- For a crispy topping, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Common Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi is a great choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as elbow macaroni, penne, or fusilli.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Breakfast Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should be good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with Breakfast Mac and Cheese?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it with a fresh fruit salad or a side of sautéed greens for a balanced meal.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to get in the kitchen and whip up this delicious Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crunchy topping, it’s the perfect way to start your day. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s create a breakfast masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables - In a large skillet over medium heat, add the crumbled breakfast sausage. Cook until browned, then add the diced onion, red pepper, and jalapeño pepper. Sauté until vegetables are tender. Season with garlic salt, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce - In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened. Stir in the cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sausage and vegetable mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix until well-coated.
- Step 5: Add the Eggs - In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and stir them into the pasta mixture to bind the ingredients.
- Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish - Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Step 7: Top with Crumbled Biscuits - Crumble the toasted breakfast biscuits over the top for a crunchy finish.
- Step 8: Bake - Place in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- For added flavor, experiment with different types of cheeses.
- Feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for more nutrition.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for easy breakfasts.
