📝 About This Recipe
A legendary staple of the Mid-Atlantic, this iconic breakfast sandwich is the undisputed king of New Jersey diners and boardwalks. It features salty, tangy Taylor Ham (pork roll) seared to perfection, nestled between fluffy folded eggs and melted American cheese on a toasted kaiser roll. Whether you call it Taylor Ham or Pork Roll, this sandwich offers a nostalgic, savory explosion of flavor that defines the ultimate morning comfort food.
🥗 Ingredients
The Core Components
- 8 slices Taylor Ham (Pork Roll) (cut about 1/4 inch thick)
- 4 Large Eggs (preferably pasture-raised)
- 4 slices American Cheese (the classic yellow deli-style melts best)
- 2 Kaiser Rolls (freshly baked, with poppy seeds or plain)
The Pan and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (divided for rolls and eggs)
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Whole Milk (optional, for fluffier eggs)
The 'SPK' (Condiments)
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Ketchup (the traditional finish)
- 1 teaspoon Hot Sauce (optional, for a kick)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
Slice your Kaiser rolls in half. Spread a small amount of butter on the cut sides and set aside.
-
2
Prepare the Taylor Ham by making four small cuts from the edge toward the center of each slice (the 'Pac-Man' or 'Fireman's Badge' cut). This prevents the meat from curling into a bowl shape when it hits the hot pan.
-
3
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the Taylor Ham slices in the pan.
-
4
Sear the meat for 2-3 minutes per side until the edges are crispy and slightly charred, and the center is browned. Remove the meat and set aside on a warm plate.
-
5
In the same pan (don't wipe out the flavorful fat!), place the Kaiser rolls cut-side down. Toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove and set aside.
-
6
In a small bowl, whisk the 4 eggs with the milk (if using), salt, and pepper until fully combined and no streaks of white remain.
-
7
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Swirl it around until melted and foamy.
-
8
Pour half of the egg mixture into the pan for the first sandwich. Let it set for 30 seconds, then use a spatula to gently fold the edges inward to create a square or circle that matches the size of your roll.
-
9
Once the egg is mostly set but still slightly moist on top, place two slices of American cheese over the egg.
-
10
Stack four slices of the seared Taylor Ham directly on top of the melting cheese.
-
11
Cover the pan with a lid for 30 seconds to ensure the cheese is perfectly gooey and the meat is reheated.
-
12
Slide the egg, cheese, and meat stack onto the bottom half of a toasted Kaiser roll. Repeat steps 8-11 for the second sandwich.
-
13
Apply a generous swirl of ketchup (and hot sauce if desired) to the top bun, place it on the sandwich, and press down gently.
-
14
For the authentic diner experience, wrap the sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or parchment paper for 1 minute. This allows the steam to soften the roll slightly and meld the flavors together.
-
15
Slice in half diagonally and serve immediately while the cheese is still molten.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always make the 'Pac-Man' slits in the pork roll; otherwise, the meat will dome up and won't cook evenly. Use American cheese from the deli counter rather than pre-wrapped singles for a superior melt and creaminess. Don't overcook the eggs; they should be soft and tender to contrast with the crispy meat and crusty roll. Wrapping the sandwich in foil for a minute is the 'secret' to achieving that authentic, unified diner texture. If you can't find Kaiser rolls, a high-quality brioche bun or an Everything bagel are excellent substitutes.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of crispy home fries or golden hash browns. A hot cup of black coffee is the traditional beverage pairing for this salty breakfast. Pair with a cold glass of orange juice to balance the savory flavors with some acidity. Add a few slices of avocado if you want a modern, 'West Coast' twist on this Jersey classic. Serve with extra napkins—this is a gloriously messy sandwich!