When it comes to breakfast, versatility and simplicity are key. What if you could combine the comforting allure of mac and cheese with the hearty satisfaction of a full breakfast? Enter the One Pan Breakfast Skillet Mac and Cheese — a dish that marries creamy, cheesy pasta with classic breakfast favorites for a truly indulgent start to your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Cleanup: Everything comes together in one pan, saving you time and effort.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch gatherings or lazy weekend mornings.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups milk (plus more as needed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 breakfast sausages, sliced
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: hot sauce, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta In a large skillet, bring 2 cups of milk to a simmer over medium heat. Add the macaroni and cook, stirring frequently, until tender (about 8-10 minutes). Add additional milk if needed to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make It Cheesy Reduce the heat to low. Stir in butter, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until a creamy sauce forms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Add Breakfast Proteins Mix in the crumbled bacon and sliced sausages, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
Step 4: Cook the Eggs Create three small wells in the pasta and crack an egg into each one. Cover the skillet and cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny (about 3-5 minutes). For firmer yolks, cook a bit longer.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Top with chopped green onions and any additional toppings of your choice. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a rustic and cozy presentation.
Pro Tips
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red chili flakes to the cheese sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and sausage, and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers instead.
- Meal Prep: This dish reheats well, so feel free to make extra and store leftovers in the fridge for up to two days.
Why It Works
The creamy cheese sauce ties together the savory breakfast elements, while the eggs provide a rich, velvety texture. Cooking everything in one pan allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious dish that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Conclusion
The One Pan Breakfast Skillet Mac and Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With its perfect balance of cheesy goodness, protein-packed ingredients, and a hint of nostalgia, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or treating yourself to something special, this skillet wonder delivers every time.