Mac and Cheese Stuffed French (Printable)

Buttery brioche envelopes creamy macaroni and cheddar, pan-fried until crisp and golden.

# Components:

→ 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 freshly ground 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 freshly ground black pepper
15 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for frying

→ Optional for Serving

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

# Method:

01 - Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions; drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute. Gradually pour in the whole milk, continuing to whisk until slightly thickened.
03 - Reduce heat to low and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and ground mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add the cooked macaroni and mix to evenly coat. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
04 - Arrange 4 bread slices on a clean work surface. Spread a generous layer of mac and cheese over each. Top with the remaining slices of bread to form four sandwiches.
05 - In a shallow bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
06 - Carefully submerge each sandwich, one at a time, into the egg mixture. Coat both sides evenly, ensuring the bread is saturated but not soggy.
07 - Heat unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Working in batches, cook each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side until deeply golden and the filling is heated through.
08 - Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately. Garnish as desired with chopped chives, hot sauce, or additional grated cheese.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to make with ingredients you probably have at home
  • Fantastic way to use up leftover mac and cheese or bread
  • Doubles as a crowd-pleasing brunch or cozy dinner option
  • Vegetarian friendly and kid approved
02 -
  • High in protein and calcium thank the eggs cheese and milk
  • Makes an unforgettable vegetarian main for brunch or dinner
  • Freezes surprisingly well and reheats beautifully in the oven
03 -
  • Make sure the mac and cheese is not runny before filling the sandwiches or you risk everything sliding out during frying
  • Do not rush soaking or frying time Each sandwich needs enough time in the pan for the bread to caramelize and set the custard I learned after my first try that a gentle press with a spatula keeps everything compact and easier to flip
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