Ingredients
- 2 slices bread (white, multigrain, brioche, bagel, or roll)
- 2 eggs
- 2-3 slices bacon
- 1–2 slices American cheese or cheddar (optional)
- 1–2 lettuce leaves (optional)
- 2 tomato slices (optional)
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise, ketchup, or mustard (optional)
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Salt, pepper
Preparation Time
- Prep: 5 min
- Cooking: 10 min
- Total: 15 min
Nutrition (per sandwich, basic version)
- Calories: ~390 kcal
- Protein: ~19g
- Carbs: 29g
- Fat: 20g
Method
1. Cook Bacon
- Heat a skillet to medium.
- Lay bacon slices flat, cook until crispy (~3-4 min per side).
- Set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat.
2. Prepare Eggs
- Option 1: Fried Eggs
- In the same skillet, add a bit of butter/oil.
- Crack eggs in, season with salt and pepper.
- Fry until whites are set and yolk is to your liking—over-easy or fully cooked.
- Option 2: Scrambled Eggs
- Beat eggs with salt and pepper.
- Cook on medium low heat, stirring constantly for soft curds.
- Option 3: Egg Patty
- Pour egg into a mould for round shape, cook until set.
3. Toast Bread
- Toast bread slices in toaster or on the pan until golden.
- For extra flavor, spread a little butter before toasting.
4. Assemble Sandwich
- Spread mayonnaise/ketchup/mustard on toasted bread (optional).
- Layer lettuce and tomato (optional).
- Place cooked eggs on bottom bread slice.
- Add cheese slice on top of eggs (if desired, let it melt over eggs).
- Layer crispy bacon slices.
- Top with remaining bread slice.
5. Serve
- Cut sandwich in half if desired.
- Serve hot, optionally wrapped in parchment (classic deli style).
Cooking Tips
- Use freshly cooked, still-warm bacon for best texture.
- Cheese can be melted by covering egg with cheese for last 30 seconds on skillet, or letting residual heat melt it after layering.
- If you prefer a runny yolk, cook eggs sunny-side up; for a neat sandwich, scramble or use a ring for egg patty.
- Add avocado, hot sauce, or sautéed onions for flavor variation.
- Whole grain bread boosts fiber; brioche, bagel, or English muffin for indulgence.
History
The bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich became a beloved American breakfast in the 20th century, rising to fame as a staple of New York city delis, diners, and fast food chains. Commonly called a “B.E.C.”, it’s celebrated for its quick convenience, hearty protein, and classic comfort food status. Over time, regional versions have evolved—from rolls to croissants, and with countless cheese and condiment combos.
Variation Ideas:
- Egg & Bacon Bagel Sandwich
- Bacon, Egg & Cheese Croissant
- Add spinach or pickled jalapeños
- Sriracha mayo twist