Breakfast Sandwiches
Taking care of yourself is a meaningful way to begin any day.
Beyond the Ingredients
Why This Recipe Matters
Some mornings begin peacefully. Others start with a long list of responsibilities, worries about the day ahead, or the feeling that we're already falling behind before we've even begun.
A breakfast sandwich doesn't ask much of us. A couple of eggs, some bread, a slice of cheese, and a few minutes of our time. We can make it exactly how we like it, adding a few extras or keeping things simple. It's an opportunity to begin the day by doing something for ourselves before turning our attention to everything else.
We often give our attention to everything that needs to be done before considering what we need ourselves. Work, family, responsibilities, and the expectations of others can easily take priority. We tell ourselves we'll find time for our own needs later, but later has a way of becoming tomorrow, and tomorrow becomes another busy day.
Taking care of ourselves isn't something we have to earn by finishing everything else first. Our needs matter just as much when life is difficult, when we're overwhelmed, or when we have more responsibilities than we know what to do with.
We can't always control what the day will bring, but we can make choices about how we begin it. Giving ourselves a few minutes of attention, preparing something we enjoy, and making our own well-being a priority are meaningful ways to start.
The Takeaway
The day may ask a great deal of us, but we deserve to take care of ourselves along the way.
What You Need
Ingredients
Serves 1 sandwich
How to Make It
Directions
- 1
If using bacon or sausage, cook it first in a skillet over medium heat. Set aside on a paper towel.
- 2
Melt butter in the same skillet over medium-low heat.
- 3
Crack eggs into the skillet. For fried eggs, cook until the whites are set but the yolk is still slightly runny, about 3 minutes.
- 4
Season eggs with salt and pepper.
- 5
Lay the cheese slice on top of the eggs during the last 30 seconds to melt.
- 6
Toast the bread or English muffin while the eggs cook.
- 7
Assemble: place egg and cheese on the bottom piece of bread.
- 8
Add bacon, sausage, tomato, or avocado if using.
- 9
Top with the second piece of bread, press gently, and serve immediately.
From the Kitchen
Small Things That Matter
Toast the bread lightly before assembling — it prevents sogginess from the egg
Spread a little mayo on the bottom toast to create a moisture barrier between the egg and the toast
Season the egg while it cooks, not after — the salt draws out flavor as it sets
Lay the cheese on the egg during the last 30 seconds with the heat still on, then cover briefly to melt it perfectly
Cook the egg on medium-low heat — a gentle cook keeps the whites tender, not rubbery
Variations & Additions
Make It Yours
- Use a croissant or English muffin instead of bread for a bakery-style upgrade
- Try a scrambled or poached egg instead of fried — each gives the sandwich a completely different feel
- Add sliced avocado, hot sauce, or a few spinach leaves for extra freshness
- Swap American cheese for sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even brie if you're feeling fancy
- Use ham or prosciutto for a salty and savory flavor
- Go crazy! You can pile on the toppings or keep it super simple
Watch It
Watch It Being Made
Video courtesy of Charlie Anderson
This video may not follow our recipe exactly. Ingredients, amounts, or steps can differ a little. Use it as a guide to see the techniques in action, and follow the recipe on this page for the details. All videos
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