There’s something undeniably magical about mornings when the scent of crispy bacon and melted cheese fills the kitchen. For me, breakfast has always been sacred—a time when even the simplest ingredients can turn into a comforting masterpiece.
This Breakfast Grilled Cheese recipe is a tribute to those slow, sunny weekend mornings spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her flip golden sandwiches with precision and love.
While grilled cheese is often a lunchtime classic, this hearty breakfast version flips the script. Packed with crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and gooey cheddar, all tucked between two slices of buttery sourdough—this sandwich doesn’t just start your day, it powers it.
Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Grilled Cheese
This isn’t your average sandwich. This Breakfast Grilled Cheese is:
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Hearty and satisfying: Eggs and bacon bring the protein; cheddar brings the comfort.
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Quick to make: From pan to plate in under 30 minutes.
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Customizable: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or add avocado for a creamy twist.
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Perfect for any season: A breakfast comfort whether it’s snowy outside or you’re enjoying a sunny spring morning.
This is more than a recipe—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re fueling up for a busy workday or enjoying a cozy brunch at home, this grilled cheese has your back.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make two generously sized sandwiches (perfect for two, or one really hungry person!), gather:
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6 strips bacon
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4 large eggs
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2 tablespoons milk
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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8 slices cheddar cheese (or 1½ cups shredded)
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4 thick slices sourdough bread
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. Thick sourdough gives that perfect crunch, while cheddar melts beautifully without overpowering the eggs or bacon. For the best melting results, see this helpful breakdown on how to melt cheese perfectly from The Kitchn.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon to Crispy Perfection
Start by frying 6 strips of bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Cook them until golden and crisp. Once done, transfer the strips to a plate lined with paper towels. Don’t discard the bacon grease—you’ll need it for the eggs!
2. Scramble the Eggs Gently
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and black pepper. Pour the egg mixture into the same skillet with the remaining bacon fat. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring gently to form soft, creamy curds. Once the eggs are just set (still a little soft—they’ll continue cooking in the sandwich), transfer them to a clean bowl.
Need help perfecting your scrambled eggs? Check out this guide to making perfect scrambled eggs from Serious Eats for foolproof techniques.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
Lay out the sourdough slices. On each slice, place two slices of cheddar cheese. On two of those slices, add three strips of bacon and spoon half the scrambled eggs over the bacon. Top with the remaining slices of bread, cheese side down.
Wondering why sourdough works so well? Read this Bon Appétit feature on the best bread for grilled cheese to see why it beats plain white bread.
4. Butter and Grill
Spread a generous layer of butter on the top of each sandwich. Heat a clean skillet to medium. Place the sandwiches butter-side down in the skillet. Press gently with a spatula and cook for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
Butter the now-top side of the sandwich, flip carefully, and press again. Cook another 3–4 minutes until both sides are crispy and the cheese has melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Let the sandwiches rest for 1–2 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly so it doesn’t ooze out. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce: spicy mayo, ketchup, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory combo.
And if you’re curious about the health benefits of your sweet toppings, here’s a Healthline article on maple syrup’s nutritional benefits.
Variations and Add-Ons
Want to put your own spin on this Breakfast Grilled Cheese? Try these ideas:
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Add avocado slices or mashed avocado for a creamy bite.
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Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella for a gooier melt.
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Use turkey bacon, Canadian bacon, or breakfast sausage for a twist.
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Add fresh herbs like chives, basil, or parsley to the scrambled eggs for a pop of freshness.
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Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra umami.
This recipe is easily adaptable. Whether you follow a low-carb lifestyle or are looking for extra fiber, you can substitute ingredients like whole grain or keto-friendly bread.
Breakfast Sandwich Tips & Tricks
Get That Perfect Golden Crust
Use softened butter and spread evenly all the way to the edges. You can also try a mix of mayo and butter on the outside of the bread for an extra golden crust.
Make-Ahead Option
Cook the bacon and scramble the eggs ahead of time and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, assemble and grill the sandwiches for a fresh, crispy finish.
Best Cheeses for Breakfast Sandwiches
Aside from cheddar, Monterey Jack, Havarti, and Fontina are great melting cheeses. Combine two cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Make It a Brunch Experience
Pair your Breakfast Grilled Cheese with:
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A side of crispy hash browns or roasted sweet potatoes
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Fresh fruit salad
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A spicy Bloody Mary or a tall glass of orange juice
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Coffee brewed strong and black—or with a splash of cream
Make a DIY brunch bar by offering variations of this sandwich and a spread of toppings like avocado, pickled onions, or hot sauce. It’s perfect for entertaining on lazy Sunday mornings.
A Breakfast Worth Waking Up For
Growing up in an Italian-American household, breakfast was often a simple spread—fresh bread, maybe a poached egg, and a wedge of cheese. But every now and then, my nonna would surprise us with something “Americano,” like a grilled cheese with eggs. She didn’t call it “Breakfast Grilled Cheese,” but the joy it brought was universal.
Today, I make this sandwich for my own family, especially on those lazy Sundays when time slows down, and everyone gathers in the kitchen. It’s more than food—it’s connection, nostalgia, and warmth.
Final Thoughts
The Breakfast Grilled Cheese is proof that the best meals don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of familiar ingredients, you can create a dish that satisfies on every level—crunchy, gooey, savory, and utterly delicious.
This is the kind of breakfast that brings people together. It’s rustic yet refined, indulgent but made from kitchen staples. Once you try it, you might just find it becomes your favorite way to start the day.
PrintBreakfast Grilled Cheese: A Morning Game-Changer
Start your day right with this hearty Breakfast Grilled Cheese recipe—featuring bacon, eggs, and melty cheddar on sourdough. Crispy, cheesy perfection!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings (2 large sandwiches) 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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6 strips bacon
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4 large eggs
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2 tablespoons milk
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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8 slices cheddar cheese (or 1½ cups shredded)
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4 thick slices sourdough bread
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
Start by frying 6 strips of bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Cook them until golden and crisp. Once done, transfer the strips to a plate lined with paper towels. Don’t discard the bacon grease—you’ll need it for the eggs!
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and black pepper. Pour the egg mixture into the same skillet with the remaining bacon fat. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring gently to form soft, creamy curds. Once the eggs are just set (still a little soft—they’ll continue cooking in the sandwich), transfer them to a clean bowl.
Need help perfecting your scrambled eggs? Check out this guide to making perfect scrambled eggs from Serious Eats for foolproof techniques.
Lay out the sourdough slices. On each slice, place two slices of cheddar cheese. On two of those slices, add three strips of bacon and spoon half the scrambled eggs over the bacon. Top with the remaining slices of bread, cheese side down.
Wondering why sourdough works so well? Read this Bon Appétit feature on the best bread for grilled cheese to see why it beats plain white bread.
Spread a generous layer of butter on the top of each sandwich. Heat a clean skillet to medium. Place the sandwiches butter-side down in the skillet. Press gently with a spatula and cook for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
Butter the now-top side of the sandwich, flip carefully, and press again. Cook another 3–4 minutes until both sides are crispy and the cheese has melted.
Let the sandwiches rest for 1–2 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly so it doesn’t ooze out. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce: spicy mayo, ketchup, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory combo.
Keywords: Breakfast Grilled Cheese