📝 About This Recipe
Inspired by the golden age of the American breakfast drive-thru, this elevated English Muffin sandwich captures the perfect harmony of salty, savory, and buttery flavors. Featuring a perfectly round, steam-basted egg, a custom-seasoned sausage patty, and a cranny-filled muffin toasted to golden perfection, it’s the ultimate handheld morning luxury. This recipe elevates the fast-food icon into a gourmet experience that proves why this format remains the undisputed king of breakfast.
🥗 Ingredients
The Foundation
- 4 pieces English Muffins (high-quality, extra nooks and crannies)
- 3 tablespoons Salted Butter (softened to room temperature)
The Savory Protein
- 1 pound Ground Pork Shoulder (chilled)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Rubbed Sage
- 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (grade A dark)
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional for heat)
The Eggs and Toppings
- 4 pieces Large AA Eggs (cold)
- 4 slices Sharp American Cheese (deli-cut for superior melt)
- 4 tablespoons Water (for steaming the eggs)
- 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil (for the rings)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, sage, maple syrup, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently with your hands just until combined—do not overwork the meat or the patties will be tough.
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2
Divide the sausage mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape into flat patties about 4 inches in diameter; they should be slightly wider than the English muffins as they will shrink during cooking.
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3
Split the English muffins using a fork rather than a knife. This preserves the 'nooks and crannies' that hold the butter and egg yolk.
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4
Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread a generous amount of butter on the cut sides of the muffins and toast them face-down until deep golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
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5
In the same skillet, increase heat to medium-high. Add the sausage patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until well-browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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6
While the sausage cooks, grease 4 metal egg rings (or cleaned tuna cans with both ends removed) with oil or butter. Place the rings in a second non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
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7
Crack one egg into each ring. Use a fork to gently break the yolk just once so it spreads slightly but doesn't fully scramble.
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8
Pour a tablespoon of water into the skillet (outside the rings) and immediately cover with a tight-fitting lid. This steams the top of the egg while the bottom sets.
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9
Steam for 2-3 minutes until the whites are opaque and the yolk is jammy. Remove the lid and carefully run a thin knife around the inside of the rings to release the eggs.
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10
Place a slice of American cheese on each warm sausage patty while they are still in the pan to initiate the melt.
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11
Assemble the sandwich: Place the cheesy sausage patty on the bottom half of the toasted muffin, top with the round steamed egg, and close with the top muffin.
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12
Wrap each sandwich in a small square of parchment paper or foil for 60 seconds. This 'steaming' step allows the flavors to meld and ensures the cheese is perfectly gooey, just like the best fast-food versions.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use a fork to split your muffins; a knife creates a flat surface that lacks the texture needed for a great sandwich. If you don't have egg rings, you can use the outer rings of Mason jar lids or even a thick slice of hollowed-out bell pepper. For a vegetarian version, substitute the pork with a seasoned plant-based crumble or a thick slice of grilled halloumi cheese. Don't skip the wrapping step at the end; the residual heat softens the muffin slightly and creates that signature 'fast food' texture. Ensure your meat is cold when forming patties to keep the fat from melting, which ensures a juicier result.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of crispy, golden hash brown patties for the full breakfast experience. Pair with a hot cup of black drip coffee or a fresh glass of cold-pressed orange juice. A small side of spicy fruit jam or hot honey can be served for dipping to add a sweet-heat element. For extra indulgence, add a few slices of buttery avocado or a smear of chipotle mayo to the top muffin.