Mac and Cheese Stuffed French Toast (Print Version)

Buttery brioche filled with creamy cheddar macaroni, dipped in savory custard, pan-fried to golden perfection.

# What You'll Need:

→ Mac and Cheese

01 - 1 cup elbow macaroni
02 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 1/2 cup whole milk
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
07 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ French Toast

08 - 8 thick slices brioche or challah bread
09 - 4 large eggs
10 - 3/4 cup whole milk
11 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
12 - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
13 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
15 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for frying

→ Optional for Serving

16 - Chopped chives
17 - Hot sauce
18 - Extra grated cheese

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain thoroughly, and set aside.
02 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Stir in all-purpose flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute until slightly golden. Gradually whisk in whole milk, cooking until sauce thickens.
03 - Add shredded sharp cheddar cheese and ground mustard (if using) to the milk mixture. Stir conistently until the sauce is smooth. Fold in the cooked macaroni, seasoning with salt and black pepper, then turn off the heat and allow to cool slightly.
04 - Lay out half the bread slices. Spread a generous layer of the prepared mac and cheese onto each. Place remaining bread slices over the mac and cheese to form sandwiches.
05 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together large eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and evenly combined.
06 - Carefully dip each assembled sandwich into the egg custard, ensuring both sides are coated without becoming saturated or soggy.
07 - Heat unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Fry the custard-coated sandwiches in batches, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes per side until both sides are golden brown and interiors are heated through.
08 - Slice sandwiches if desired. Serve while hot, garnished with chopped chives, extra grated cheese, or hot sauce.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Comfort food upgrade combining two classics
  • Perfect for brunch or a unique dinner
02 -
  • This recipe contains wheat, milk, and eggs
  • Use day-old bread for crispier results that hold up better during frying
03 -
  • Prepare mac and cheese a day ahead for quicker assembly
  • Try adding cooked bacon or jalapenos to the filling for extra flavor