Breakfast Grilled Cheese with Eggs

This breakfast grilled cheese brings together sourdough bread, melted cheese, scrambled eggs, and savory sausage for a satisfying morning meal. It’s perfect when you want something hearty, flavorful, and quick to make that will keep you going through a busy day.

I first made this on a chilly Sunday morning and immediately knew this would become a new breakfast favorite for the whole family. Now, it’s my go-to when I want something special but fuss-free.

Ingredients

• Ground breakfast sausage: provides rich, savory flavor; choose high quality pork for best taste
• Large eggs: beaten for fluffy scrambled eggs that bind the sandwich together
• Colby-Jack cheese: melts beautifully, offering creamy and mild sharpness; opt for freshly sliced if possible
• Unsalted butter: soft for spreading and achieving a golden crust on the bread
• Sourdough bread: sturdy and tangy to hold the fillings without getting soggy; look for a quality local bakery loaf if you can

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Sausage:

In a large non-stick skillet set to medium heat, cook and crumble the ground breakfast sausage until fully browned and no longer pink. Transfer it to a medium bowl lined with a paper towel to drain excess grease. Set aside. Use the skillet pan for the next step to preserve flavor, wiping it clean first.

Scramble the Eggs:

Melt 2 tablespoons of the softened butter in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and allow them to start setting without stirring for a few seconds. Then gently stir the eggs creating soft curds. Cook until there is no visible liquid, keeping the eggs tender and slightly creamy. Remove from heat.

Combine Sausage and Eggs:

Remove the paper towel from the sausage and add the cooked sausage back into the bowl. Gently stir in the scrambled eggs to combine the mixture evenly.

Prepare the Bread and Sandwich:

Wipe the skillet clean again and preheat it to medium. Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. Place one slice buttered side down in the skillet, then layer one slice of Colby-Jack cheese, about half a cup of the sausage and egg mixture, another cheese slice, and finally top with the second bread slice buttered side up.

Grill the Sandwich:

Cook until the bread turns golden brown and crispy, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side until equally golden and the cheese is melted. Transfer the sandwich to a cutting board and slice in half if you like.

Repeat and Serve:

Make the remaining sandwiches using the same method. Serve immediately while warm so the cheese is gooey and the bread is crispy.

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For me, the standout ingredient is the sourdough bread. Its tangy flavor really balances the richness of the cheese and sausage. This recipe reminds me of weekend mornings with my family when we linger at the table and savor every bite.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in foil or airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep the bread crisp. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap the breakfast sausage for cooked bacon, ham, or vegetarian sausage. Use cheddar or mozzarella cheese if you don’t have Colby-Jack on hand. Any good quality crusty bread can work, though sturdy slices hold up best.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with fresh fruit or a simple side salad to lighten the meal. A dollop of salsa or hot sauce adds a punch for those who like some heat.

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Cultural Context

Grilled cheese sandwiches have been beloved in American kitchens for generations, often reinvented with new fillings. Combining classic breakfast staples in this way offers both comfort and variety.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best for this sandwich?

Sourdough bread is preferred due to its sturdy texture and slight tang, which holds up well during grilling and complements the rich filling.

→ How do I prevent the eggs from overcooking?

Cook the eggs gently over medium heat, stirring softly until just set with no visible liquid to keep them tender and creamy.

→ Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?

Yes, bacon, ham, or a vegetarian sausage alternative can be used to customize the filling according to taste.

→ Is it possible to add fresh ingredients to brighten the sandwich?

Adding fresh slices of tomato with a sprinkle of salt and pepper adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

→ What is the best cooking fat for grilling the sandwich?

Unsalted butter is ideal for grilling, as it helps achieve a golden, crispy crust and adds subtle richness.