
This hearty breakfast grilled cheese combines two of my favorite morning classics into one ultimate sandwich. Each bite delivers crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and perfectly melted cheese between golden buttery sourdough slices.
I created this recipe one lazy Sunday morning when my family wanted something more exciting than regular breakfast. Now it's our weekend tradition when we have a bit more time to enjoy breakfast together.
Ingredients
- Bacon strips: Quality thick cut bacon provides the perfect savory base
- Large eggs: Free range eggs give the fluffiest texture and richest flavor
- Milk: Adds creaminess to the scrambled eggs, whole milk works best
- Black pepper: Freshly ground provides the most flavor
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers the perfect melt and tang
- Sourdough bread: The slight tanginess balances the rich filling perfectly
- Unsalted butter: Controls salt level and creates that perfect golden crust
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Cook your bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until they reach your desired crispness. This usually takes about 8 minutes, turning occasionally. The bacon needs to be crispy enough to bite through cleanly but not burnt. Transfer to paper towels to absorb excess grease, but save that flavorful bacon fat in the pan.
- Prepare the Eggs:
- Whisk your eggs, milk, and black pepper together until fully incorporated. The milk helps create fluffy eggs, while the pepper adds a subtle warmth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the bacon grease over medium low heat. Gently fold the eggs as they cook, pulling them across the pan. Remove them from heat when they look slightly underdone, as they’ll continue cooking from residual heat.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Layer each slice of bread with cheese first. This creates a moisture barrier that prevents the bread from getting soggy. Then add bacon strips on two slices, followed by a generous portion of scrambled eggs. Cap with the remaining bread slices, making sure the cheese side faces inward. Press gently to compact the sandwich slightly.
- Cook to Perfection:
- Butter the outer sides of the sandwiches and place them buttered side down in a clean preheated skillet. The key is medium heat not high, allowing the cheese to melt while the bread slowly turns golden. Press occasionally with a spatula to ensure even browning. After about 4 minutes, butter the top sides, then carefully flip and cook until the second side is equally golden and crispy.
The sourdough bread is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. After experimenting with countless varieties, I found that its sturdiness holds up to the hefty filling while the tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the eggs and cheese, creating the perfect balance in every bite.
Storing Leftovers
While this breakfast grilled cheese is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in aluminum foil before refrigerating. To reheat, place the wrapped sandwich in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium low heat with a cover to help the cheese remelt without burning the bread. Avoid microwaving as this will make the bread soggy.
Cheese Variations
Experiment with different cheese combinations to create your own signature breakfast sandwich. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the eggs and bacon. Swiss cheese offers a nutty flavor that melts beautifully. For a more sophisticated version, try a combination of gruyère and white cheddar. The key is using cheeses that melt well and complement the savory bacon and eggs. I recommend using freshly sliced cheese from the deli counter rather than pre packaged slices for the best melting quality.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast grilled cheese stands wonderfully on its own, but a few simple sides can elevate it to a complete brunch experience. Fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich. A small arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the heaviness. For a truly indulgent experience, serve with a side of hash browns or roasted breakfast potatoes. My family loves having these sandwiches with a drizzle of pure maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination that’s absolutely irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the bread from browning too quickly?
Lower the skillet heat if the bread browns before the cheese fully melts to ensure even cooking.
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, choose hearty breads like whole grain, rye, or ciabatta for structure and flavor. Avoid pre-sliced bread.
- → What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
Try other meltable cheeses like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for variation.
- → How can I make it healthier?
Use turkey bacon, whole grain bread, and low-fat cheese for a lighter option.
- → What are some condiment pairing ideas?
Pair with spicy mayo, ketchup, or a drizzle of maple syrup for added flavor.