There’s something profoundly comforting about biting into a warm, gooey Breakfast Grilled Cheese. I discovered this delightful twist on a classic when I was craving something that could kickstart my morning without a trip to the drive-thru. The moment I heard the sizzle of the egg hitting the skillet, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, reminiscent of cozy weekend breakfasts at home.
Imagine the rich flavor of buttery sourdough enveloping a perfectly cooked egg and melty cheddar, with the option to add crispy bacon or ham for that extra savory touch. It’s the kind of dish that whispers to you: this is self-care on a plate. In just 20 minutes, you can elevate your breakfast game, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for both rushed mornings or lazy weekends. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that promises to delight your taste buds and restore your love for home-cooked food!
Why You'll Love This Breakfast Grilled Cheese
- You'll appreciate the ease of making this delightful sandwich in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- The combination of gooey cheddar and a perfectly cooked egg delivers a rich flavor that you simply can't resist.
- This recipe offers versatility, allowing you to customize it with your favorite additions like crispy bacon or savory ham.
- With its golden, crispy exterior and melty interior, this dish is visually appealing and sure to impress anyone at your breakfast table.
Breakfast Grilled Cheese Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 slices sourdough bread – a hearty choice that adds a delightful crunch and tang to your Breakfast Grilled Cheese.
- 1 tablespoon softened butter – perfect for achieving a golden-brown crust that adds richness and flavor.
For the Filling
- 1 large egg – this star ingredient provides protein and a creamy texture when cooked just right.
- 1 slice cheddar cheese – melts beautifully, creating the gooey goodness that every grilled cheese lover craves.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – enhances the overall flavor of your sandwich.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – adds a hint of spice to balance the richness of the cheese.
Optional Additions
- 2 slices cooked bacon or ham – for those moments when you want a savory twist in your Breakfast Grilled Cheese.
How to Make Breakfast Grilled Cheese
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Heat the Skillet: Begin by heating a non-stick skillet over medium heat. This sets the stage for achieving that perfect, crispy grilled cheese crust that we all love!
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Butter the Bread: Generously butter one side of each slice of bread. The butter will create a beautiful golden-brown crust as it grills, adding a rich flavor.
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Place the First Slice: Take your first slice of bread and place it in the skillet, butter-side down. This is where the magic starts to happen!
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Add the Egg: Crack the egg directly onto the bread. Cook it until the egg white is mostly set, keeping an eye out for that deliciously runny yolk if you prefer it like that!
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Top with Cheese: Carefully place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the egg. If you’re using bacon or ham, now's the time to add those crispy slices. They’ll enhance the flavor beautifully!
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Complete the Sandwich: Take the second slice of bread and place it butter-side up on top of your cheesy, eggy creation. This will ensure both sides get that delightful crunch.
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Grill the First Side: Grill the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt—this is a great moment to inhale the savory aroma!
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Flip and Grill: Gently flip the sandwich using a spatula and grill the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for a nice crispy texture and fully melted cheese!
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Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the sandwich from the skillet, slice it in half, and serve it hot. It’s that simple, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh fruit for a complete breakfast experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Breakfast Grilled Cheese Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it truly your own with these delicious twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg for an extra burst of heat. It’s a vibrant way to start your day!
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Herb-Infused: Mix chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley into your egg before cooking for an aromatic boost. The fresh flavors will brighten each bite.
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Veggie Delight: Layer in fresh spinach, sliced tomatoes, or avocado before grilling for a colorful, nutritious upgrade. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the dish's texture.
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Cheesy Duo: Swap the cheddar for a blend of mozzarella and pepper jack for a creamy, spicy cheese experience. The melted cheeses will create a gooey and indulgent sandwich.
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Sweet Twist: Spread a thin layer of fig or apple jam on the inside of the bread before adding the egg and cheese. This unexpected sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.
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Breakfast Casserole Style: Tear the bread into pieces and mix everything together in a pan for a more cohesive breakfast casserole. This is perfect for sharing and serving a crowd!
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Smoky Flavor: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the egg mixture for a rich, smoky flavor that elevates this classic grilled cheese. This subtle addition makes a big impact!
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some crushed nuts, like walnuts or pecans, on top of the egg before adding the cheese for a delightful crunch. It introduces a new texture that beautifully contrasts the creamy fillings.
Make Ahead Options
These Breakfast Grilled Cheese sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to streamline their mornings! You can crack the eggs and whisk them up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. The buttered bread could also be assembled (without cooking) and kept in the fridge, ensuring the bread holds onto its wonderful texture. When you're ready to enjoy your sandwich, heat the skillet, pour in the egg, and proceed with layering on the cheese, grilling until everything is perfectly melty. This way, you’ll have a homemade breakfast ready to go without sacrificing quality or flavor, making those busy mornings much easier.
What to Serve with Breakfast Grilled Cheese?
Nothing pairs better with a comforting grilled cheese than delightful sides that enhance the meal experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the grilled cheese. Plus, it’s refreshing!
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Crispy Hash Browns: Golden brown and crunchy, hash browns provide that satisfying texture contrast while absorbing any excess runny yolk from the sandwich.
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Tomato Soup: This classic pairing offers a warm, tangy dip that beautifully complements the cheesy goodness, invoking a sense of nostalgia.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings a nutritious element, enhancing flavors with its mildness while creating a luscious mouthfeel.
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Sweet Potatoes Wedges: These can be baked to perfection for a sweet and savory twist, adding an interesting flavor dimension alongside the main dish.
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Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of your favorite brew can elevate breakfast, warming you up and delighting your senses with every sip.
Treat your Breakfast Grilled Cheese to these delicious accompaniments, and enjoy every bite!
How to Store and Freeze Breakfast Grilled Cheese
Room Temperature: Store your Breakfast Grilled Cheese at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but it's best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month, and reheat directly from frozen in a skillet for crispy results.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed through and crispy. Enjoy your Breakfast Grilled Cheese just as you would freshly made!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making a Breakfast Grilled Cheese, it's crucial to keep the skillet on medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning the bread.
- Be generous with the butter on the bread as this will help achieve that irresistible golden crust while also infusing rich flavor into every bite.
- If you prefer a runny yolk, crack the egg on the first slice of bread and cook it until the white is mostly set, but be careful not to overcook.
- Timing is key; grill each side for 3-4 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning and achieve the perfect melt of the cheese.
Breakfast Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best sourdough bread for my Breakfast Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely! Look for sourdough bread that has a golden-brown crust and a soft, chewy interior. Ideally, it should feel slightly moist but not soggy. I recommend choosing a loaf that has a fragrant smell—this often indicates freshness!
What's the best way to store leftover Breakfast Grilled Cheese?
Very! For short-term storage, place the sandwich in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you want to reheat, simply pop it back in a skillet to restore that crispy texture.
Can I freeze my Breakfast Grilled Cheese?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can go in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you're ready to enjoy it, reheat directly from frozen in a skillet over medium-low heat until it’s crispy and hot throughout.
What should I do if my sandwich sticks to the skillet?
Ah, this can happen! If you find your Breakfast Grilled Cheese sticking, ensure your skillet is well-heated and fully non-stick before adding the sandwich. If you notice sticking, gently run a spatula under it to release it. Adding a little extra butter can also help improve the non-stick quality.
Is this recipe suitable for those with egg allergies?
Unfortunately, no, since eggs are a key ingredient in this Breakfast Grilled Cheese. However, you might try substituting the egg with an egg replacer like mashed banana or silken tofu, though the texture and flavor will change. Be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
How can I customize my Breakfast Grilled Cheese for different diets?
Definitely! For a vegetarian option, simply leave out the bacon or ham and add more veggies such as spinach or tomatoes. For gluten-free diets, swap the sourdough with gluten-free bread while maintaining the same cooking process. The more the merrier—you can make this sandwich fit virtually any preference!
Breakfast Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Generously butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Place the first slice of bread in the skillet, butter-side down.
- Crack the egg directly onto the bread and cook until the egg white is mostly set.
- Carefully place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the egg.
- Add bacon or ham if using, then place the second slice of bread butter-side up on top.
- Grill the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the sandwich and grill the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the sandwich, slice in half, and serve hot.
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