Save to Pinterest A decadent fusion dish featuring creamy mac and cheese sandwiched between buttery brioche slices, dipped in a savory custard, and pan-fried to golden perfection.
I first discovered this recipe when I wanted something a little over-the-top for a chilly weekend brunch with friends. The mix of creamy mac and cheese enveloped by crisp, buttery bread instantly became a household hit.
Ingredients
- Mac and Cheese: 1 cup elbow macaroni, 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup milk, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional), salt and black pepper to taste
- French Toast: 8 thick slices brioche or challah bread, 4 large eggs, 3/4 cup whole milk, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp unsalted butter for frying
- Optional for Serving: Chopped chives, hot sauce, extra grated cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened.
- Finish Mac and Cheese:
- Stir in cheddar and ground mustard, mixing until smooth and creamy. Add cooked macaroni, season with salt and pepper, and stir to coat. Remove from heat and let cool a bit.
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- Lay out bread slices. Spread a generous layer of mac and cheese on each, then top with another bread slice to create sandwiches.
- Prepare Custard:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip Sandwiches:
- Carefully dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated, but not soggy.
- Cook French Toast:
- Heat butter in a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook sandwiches in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve immediately, garnishing with chives, hot sauce, or extra cheese as desired.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around the breakfast table for new twists on old favorites, and this stuffed French toast always brings out smiles and plenty of requests for seconds.
Required Tools
Saucepan, whisk, mixing bowls, nonstick skillet or griddle, spatula, shallow bowl
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (bread, flour), milk (cheese, butter, milk), and eggs. Double-check all labels for hidden allergens in pre-packaged products.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 610, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 57 g, Protein: 23 g
Save to Pinterest Serve hot and enjoy every melty bite. This stuffed French toast is sure to impress at any meal!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different bread types?
Yes, challah or sturdy white bread works well. Use day-old bread for best texture during dipping and frying.
- → What cheese alternatives work for the filling?
Try mozzarella for mild flavor, Gruyère for nutty notes, or a mix of cheeses for extra richness.
- → How do I avoid soggy sandwiches?
Dip quickly and use firm bread. Toasting bread lightly before assembly helps maintain structure.
- → Can I prepare the macaroni ahead of time?
Absolutely! Refrigerate macaroni and reheat gently before assembling for faster preparation.
- → What sides pair well?
Serve with crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or light soup to complement this rich main dish.
- → Is it suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, with vegetarian cheese and bread; avoid bacon or meat-based add-ins for a fully vegetarian dish.