Name: Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound pasta ((cavatappi shaped)); 1 pound breakfast sausage ((removed from casings and crumbled)); 1 large onion ((diced)); 1 large red pepper ((diced)); 1 large jalapeno pepper ((discard seeds and dice)); 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 4 tablespoons butter; 6 tablespoons flour; 4 cups whole milk; 2 cups shredded colby jack cheese; 2 cups pepper jack cheese; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese; to taste salt and pepper; 4 eggs; 5 or 6 toasted breakfast biscuits ((crumbled))

There’s something undeniably comforting about mac and cheese. It’s the quintessential comfort food that brings back memories of childhood, but what if we took that classic dish and gave it a breakfast twist? Enter the Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe, a delightful dish that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the savory flavors of breakfast. This dish is perfect for those lazy weekend mornings or even as a brunch centerpiece that will impress your family and friends.

Imagine digging into a hearty bowl of pasta, enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, complemented by the savory notes of breakfast sausage, and finished off with a crunchy biscuit topping. Trust me, once you try this Breakfast Mac and Cheese, you won’t want to go back to your regular breakfast routine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Breakfast Mac and Cheese is not just your ordinary mac and cheese. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

– **Flavor Explosion:** The blend of cheeses, coupled with the spicy jalapeno and savory breakfast sausage, creates a flavor profile that’s out of this world.
– **Comfort Food Reinvented:** It combines two beloved meals—breakfast and mac and cheese—making it a versatile dish for any time of day.
– **Easy to Customize:** Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Whether it’s different veggies or a variety of meats, the possibilities are endless.
– **Crowd-Pleaser:** Perfect for family gatherings or brunch parties, this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

What Goes In

To create this delicious Breakfast Mac and Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound of pasta (I used cavatappi shaped pasta for its fun texture)
1 pound breakfast sausage (removed from casings and crumbled)
1 large onion (diced)
1 red pepper (diced)
1 jalapeno pepper (discard seeds and dice for a mild heat)
1 teaspoon garlic salt
4 tablespoons butter
6 tablespoons flour
4 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded colby jack cheese
2 cups pepper jack cheese
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
4 eggs
5 or 6 toasted breakfast biscuits (homemade or from the refrigerated aisle, crumbled)

Hardware & Gadgets

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these handy tools:

Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
Skillet: To cook the sausage and vegetables.
Whisk: For mixing the cheese sauce.
Baking dish: To bake the assembled mac and cheese.
Spatula: For stirring and folding ingredients.

From Start to Finish: Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creating this Breakfast Mac and Cheese is a straightforward process that results in a dish packed with flavor and comfort. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sausage and Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the crumbled breakfast sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add the diced onion, red pepper, and jalapeno. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic salt and mix well.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Slowly whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken for about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the Cheese

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the colby jack, pepper jack, and sharp cheddar cheeses until fully melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sausage and veggie mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir until all ingredients are well coated.

6. Incorporate the Eggs

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then fold them into the macaroni mixture. This will help bind everything together and add richness to the dish.

7. Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled breakfast biscuits evenly on top for added crunch.

8. Bake and Serve

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and then serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Breakfast Mac and Cheese!

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions:

Gluten-free pasta: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Vegetarian sausage: Swap the breakfast sausage for a plant-based alternative.
Dairy-free cheese: Use dairy-free cheese options to make this dish vegan.
Non-dairy milk: Substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or soy milk.

Slip-Ups to Skip

To ensure your Breakfast Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce continuously to avoid lumps.
Be cautious with salt; the cheese and sausage already add saltiness to the dish.
Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes after baking to set before serving.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Breakfast Mac and Cheese fresh, follow these guidelines:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or use the microwave if you’re short on time.
For freezing, store in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months.
To reheat from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it according to the instructions.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheese varieties. Just make sure to stick to similar melting cheeses for the best results.

What can I serve with Breakfast Mac and Cheese?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, fresh fruit, or even a side of bacon or turkey sausage for an extra hearty breakfast.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can portion it out into individual servings for easy meal prep throughout the week. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! This dish is perfect for gatherings and will surely become a favorite in your household. Whether it’s on social media or through word of mouth, sharing delicious recipes is a great way to spread joy in the kitchen.

This Breakfast Mac and Cheese Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort. With its creamy cheese sauce, hearty pasta, and savory sausage, it’s sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of cheesy goodness that’s perfect for any time of day!