📝 About This Recipe
A love letter to the iconic New York City breakfast, this sandwich is the perfect harmony of salty, creamy, and crispy textures. Featuring thick-cut hardwood smoked bacon, velvety folded eggs, and gooey melted American cheese tucked into a toasted, buttered kaiser roll, it is the undisputed heavyweight champion of morning comfort food. Whether you're fueling a busy day or nursing a slow morning, this recipe brings the authentic corner-store magic right into your home kitchen.
🥗 Ingredients
The Foundation
- 1 piece Kaiser Roll (fresh, preferably with poppy seeds or sesame seeds)
- 1.5 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened for spreading)
Proteins and Dairy
- 3 strips Thick-Cut Bacon (hardwood smoked)
- 2 Large Eggs (at room temperature)
- 2 slices American Cheese (high-quality deli style for maximum melt)
- 1 teaspoon Whole Milk (optional, for fluffier eggs)
Seasoning and Condiments
- 1 pinch Kosher Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (coarse grind preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Ketchup (optional, for the classic finish)
- 2-3 dashes Hot Sauce (vinegar-based, like Frank's or Crystal)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
Place the bacon strips in a cold medium-sized non-stick skillet. Turn the heat to medium and cook, flipping occasionally, until the fat has rendered and the bacon is crispy and golden brown (about 6-8 minutes).
-
2
Remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on a paper-towel-lined plate. Keep about 1 teaspoon of the rendered bacon fat in the pan for flavor, wiping away the excess.
-
3
Slice the kaiser roll in half horizontally. Generously butter both cut sides of the roll using about 1/2 tablespoon of the butter.
-
4
Place the roll halves face-down in the skillet over medium heat. Toast until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly crisp (about 1-2 minutes). Remove and set aside.
-
5
In a small bowl, crack the two eggs. Add the milk (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously with a fork for 30 seconds until no streaks of white remain and the mixture is slightly frothy.
-
6
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet over medium-low heat. Once the butter is bubbling, pour in the egg mixture.
-
7
Using a spatula, gently push the cooked edges toward the center, allowing the raw egg to flow to the edges. Do not over-scramble; you want to create a cohesive 'pancake' of egg.
-
8
When the eggs are nearly set but still slightly moist on top, fold the sides of the egg circle inward to match the approximate diameter of your kaiser roll.
-
9
Place the two slices of American cheese over the folded eggs. Cover the pan with a lid for 30 seconds to ensure the cheese is perfectly melted.
-
10
Break your crispy bacon strips in half and place them directly on top of the melted cheese.
-
11
Using a wide spatula, lift the egg, cheese, and bacon stack and place it onto the bottom half of the toasted kaiser roll.
-
12
Apply ketchup and hot sauce to the top bun if desired. Close the sandwich and press down gently to marry the flavors.
-
13
For the authentic experience, wrap the sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or parchment paper and let it sit for 1 minute. This 'steams' the roll slightly, making it soft and cohesive.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use American cheese from the deli counter rather than pre-wrapped singles for a superior melt and flavor. Always start your bacon in a cold pan to render the fat slowly and prevent curling. Don't overcook the eggs; they will continue to cook slightly from residual heat once wrapped in the roll. Wrapping the sandwich in foil for a minute is the 'secret' step that gives it that authentic, soft bodega texture. If you prefer a 'runny' yolk, cook the eggs over-easy instead of folded, but be prepared for a messier eat!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of crispy golden hash browns or home fries seasoned with paprika. Pair with a hot cup of black coffee or a classic orange juice. For a spicy kick, add pickled jalapeños directly onto the cheese layer. A side of fresh fruit, like sliced melon or berries, helps balance the saltiness of the sandwich. If you're feeling indulgent, serve with a small side of hot honey for dipping.