Breakfast Mac and Cheese

A Busy Mom's Surprisingly Delicious Breakfast Mac and Cheese

Mornings are chaotic in our house. Between getting the kids ready for school, packing lunches, and trying to squeeze in a quick workout before work, breakfast is often the last thing on my mind. I usually resort to grabbing whatever’s quick and easy – cereal, toast, maybe a yogurt if I’m feeling fancy. But lately, I’ve been craving something more substantial, something that would actually keep me full and energized until lunchtime. That's where this breakfast mac and cheese comes in. It sounds crazy, I know, but trust me on this one. It's surprisingly delicious and surprisingly easy to make.

I stumbled upon this recipe while browsing through food blogs one evening (after the kids were finally asleep, of course!). I was immediately intrigued by the idea of a savory, cheesy breakfast. The thought of creamy macaroni and cheese, spiced up with breakfast sausage and potatoes, topped with a perfectly runny egg? It was a game-changer. I had to try it. And let me tell you, it was even better than I imagined. It’s the perfect blend of comforting and satisfying, with just the right amount of spice from the sausage to wake up my taste buds. It's so much more interesting than the usual breakfast fare, and it’s surprisingly filling. The kids love it too; they think it's a special treat.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. It’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup, a huge bonus for a busy mom like myself. I can have it on the table in under 30 minutes, and the cleanup is minimal – a huge time-saver on those crazy mornings. The ingredients are also relatively straightforward, most of which I usually have on hand. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. I’ve experimented with different types of cheese, adding in some spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients, and even swapping out the sausage for bacon or ham depending on what I have in the fridge.

Here’s why this recipe works for a busy week:

• One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup – a must for busy mornings!
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Adapt it to your taste and what you have on hand.
• Kid-friendly: The kids will love this unique and delicious breakfast.
• Satisfying and filling: Keeps you energized throughout the morning.

This recipe has become a staple in our breakfast routine. It’s a delicious way to start the day, and it makes even the most hectic mornings a little more enjoyable. So, give it a try, and I guarantee it will become one of your go-to breakfast recipes, too. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a delicious way to start the day feeling energized and ready to conquer whatever comes your way.

Tips and variations:

• For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese – a blend of cheddar, Gruyère, and Fontina would be delicious.
• Add a sprinkle of herbs and spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder, for extra flavor.
• If you don't have potatoes o'Brien on hand, you can use any other type of cooked potatoes, or even roasted sweet potatoes.
• For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage instead of regular breakfast sausage.

Don't be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! It's a blank canvas for your culinary imagination. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 425 degrees F, place the cooking rack on the top rung, and line a baking sheet with a silicone mat.
• Heat a large stockpot over medium/medium-high heat.
• Once hot, add in sausage and cook until the meat is no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula while it cooks.
• To the pot add shells, broth, and milk.
• Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
• Once simmering, simmer for about 7-10 minutes or until shells are al dente. Stir constantly. You may need to adjust your heat to keep it at a low simmer.
• Meanwhile, place potatoes o'brien onto prepared baking sheet and cook for 10 minutes, then broil for an additional 3 minutes, watching to make sure the potatoes don't burn.
• Once the pasta is perfectly al dente, remove from heat and stir in cheeses.
• Once the cheeses have melted, stir in the cooked potatoes, and salt.
• Taste, re-season, if necessary, and serve with optional eggs!