Mac & Cheese Bun Burgers

1 . Stage

Prepare macaroni and cheese according to package instructions, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, about 3 hours.

2 . Stage

Set up a dredging station: In a small, shallow bowl, season flour with salt and pepper. In a second shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Place bread crumbs in a third bowl.

3 . Stage

Using a 1/3 cup measure, scoop out mac and cheese. Form into patties and toss in seasoned flour, dunk in the egg mixture to coat, then dredge in bread crumbs.

4 . Stage

Into a large skillet, add about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil. Heat on high until oil starts to shimmer. Add mac and cheese “buns” and cook until golden on both sides, flipping after about 2 minutes. Place on a paper towel-lined plate and season with salt.

5 . Stage

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add burgers and cook until seared on both sides and cooked to your liking, about 4 minutes. Remove from skillet.

6 . Stage

To assemble, top three “buns” with burgers, lettuce and tomato. Serve.