One Pan Breakfast Skillet Mac and Cheese Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was originally created for 4 servings. Ingredient quantities are listed for that yield. Cooking times and instructions remain unchanged even if amounts are scaled.

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 cup water
• 1 box macaroni and cheese mix (such as Kraft)
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
• 1 tablespoon Mexican hot sauce (such as Cholula)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).
2. Place an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7 minutes.
3. Stir in the macaroni, milk, water, and the powdered cheese packet. Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet with a wooden spoon. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce becomes creamy, about 10 minutes.
4. Mix in 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, then remove the skillet from the heat.
5. Using the back of a spoon, create 4 small wells in the pasta mixture. Crack one egg into each well. Sprinkle the remaining cheese around the eggs and season evenly with salt.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake until the egg whites are just set, about 5 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with black pepper and sliced green onions, and drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 877
• Total Fat: 58g (75% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 20g (101% DV)
• Cholesterol: 321mg (107% DV)
• Sodium: 1803mg (78% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 43g (16% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% DV)
• Total Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 44g (88% DV)
• Vitamin C: 2mg (2% DV)
• Calcium: 452mg (35% DV)
• Iron: 4mg (21% DV)
• Potassium: 839mg (18% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient data may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation. For specific dietary concerns, consult a healthcare professional.

The Story Behind One Pan Breakfast Skillet Mac and Cheese

The origins of the breakfast skillet mac and cheese can be traced back to a fusion of classic American comfort foods. Macaroni and cheese, a staple in American households since the early 20th century, was combined with breakfast staples like eggs and sausage to create a hearty, all-in-one morning meal. The skillet version evolved as home cooks sought simplicitypreparing both the pasta and breakfast proteins in a single pan, reducing cleanup and maximizing flavor integration.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

This dish is particularly popular in the Southern and Midwestern United States, regions known for rich, indulgent breakfasts. In the South, cooks often add spicy sausage or a dash of hot sauce, reflecting local tastes, while Midwest versions may favor milder flavors with a heavier emphasis on cheese. Some variations also incorporate local vegetables, like bell peppers or tomatoes, adding color and texture while staying true to the hearty, comforting essence of the dish.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While it shares elements with traditional mac and cheese and breakfast casseroles, the one pan breakfast skillet mac and cheese stands out because it integrates the eggs directly into the pasta during the cooking process. Unlike baked breakfast casseroles where eggs are mixed throughout, this version creates wells for whole eggs, allowing them to bake atop the cheesy pasta for a visually appealing presentation and distinct texture contrast. This method gives the dish a rustic, diner-style appeal that sets it apart.

Where Its Commonly Served

This dish is a favorite in casual breakfast and brunch spots, often appearing on diner menus and weekend brunch tables. It is also a popular choice for home cooks looking for a hearty meal to serve guests without complicated preparation. Some restaurants even offer variations with additional toppings such as bacon, sauted mushrooms, or jalapeos to cater to diverse tastes, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.

Interesting Facts

Interestingly, this dish reflects a broader culinary trend in American cooking: combining comfort foods into one cohesive meal. The one pan approach not only simplifies preparation but also enhances flavor, as the sausage fat and cheese blend with the pasta while the eggs bake. It is also a dish that encourages creativity, allowing cooks to experiment with cheeses, spices, and toppings. For many, it serves as both a nostalgic comfort food and a modern brunch innovation, blending tradition with convenience in a single skillet.

FAQ about One Pan Breakfast Skillet Mac and Cheese Recipe

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