Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While American cheese melts beautifully, cheddar, Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack all work wonderfully. Each brings a different flavor profile to your sandwich.

What if I don't have a broiler?

No problem! You can toast your bagels in a regular toaster first, then add butter while they're still warm. The butter will melt nicely, and you can proceed with the rest of the recipe.

Can I make these with scrambled eggs instead?

Definitely! Scrambled eggs work great in these sandwiches. Simply whisk your eggs before cooking, and you may want to add a bit of milk or cream for fluffiness.

How do I keep the yolks runny but make sure the whites are fully cooked?

The key is medium heat and that splash of water with the lid on. The steam helps cook the top of the egg while leaving the yolk runny. If you're concerned about undercooked eggs, use pasteurized eggs or cook until the yolks are set.

Ultimate Breakfast Bagel Sandwich Recipe

Name: Ultimate Breakfast Bagel Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 everything bagels (or bagel flavor of your choice); 6 tablespoons salted butter (very soft); 8 large eggs; Kosher salt (to taste); Black pepper (to taste); Red chili flakes (optional, to taste); Splash of water; 8 slices American cheese; 8 slices thick-cut bacon (cooked crispy); 4 tablespoons vegetable oil; Hot sauce (to serve)

Description

This Breakfast Bagel Sandwich is the ultimate way to kickstart your morning! Featuring everything bagels toasted to golden perfection, crispy bacon, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked eggs, this sandwich is indulgent yet simple to make. Perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunch, it’s customizable and freezer-friendly too.

Ingredients

Scale

Bagels

4 everything bagels (or bagel flavor of your choice)
6 tablespoons salted butter (very soft)

Eggs and Seasoning

8 large eggs
Kosher salt (to taste)
Black pepper (to taste)
Red chili flakes (optional, to taste)
Splash of water

Cheese and Bacon

8 slices American cheese
8 slices thick-cut bacon (cooked crispy)

Oils for Cooking

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

Optional

Hot sauce (to serve)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Oven
Set your oven or toaster oven broiler to high heat. If using an oven, position the rack on the second level below the broiler heat source.
Toast the Bagels
Split the bagels in half and place them cut side up on a sheet tray. Spread the softened butter evenly over the bagels. Place them under the broiler and toast until golden brown or to your preferred level of crispness. Remove the bagels from the oven and set aside.
Add Cheese to Bagels
Place one slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each bagel. Leave them aside while preparing the eggs and bacon.
Cook the Eggs
Heat a medium-sized nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Once the oil is hot, crack two eggs into the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Cook the eggs for 1 minute on the first side.
Flip and Add Cheese to the Eggs
Flip the eggs carefully. Season the second side with salt and pepper. Place one slice of American cheese on top of one of the eggs. Add a splash of water to the pan and cover it with a lid. Cook for 30 seconds for runny yolks or adjust the time for your desired level of doneness.
Assemble the Sandwich
Place two slices of crispy bacon on the bottom half of a cheese-topped bagel. Add the cheese-covered egg on top, followed by the second fried egg. Drizzle with hot sauce if desired and crown it with the top bagel half. Repeat this process for the remaining sandwiches. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

This recipe can easily be halved or doubled depending on your serving needs.
Customize the sandwich by using different bagel flavors, cheeses, or even scrambled eggs.
Freezer-friendly: Wrap assembled sandwiches in foil and freeze for up to one month. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
If you prefer not to use the oven, you can toast the bagels in a traditional toaster.
Adding hot sauce introduces a spicier kick to the sandwich.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 620
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 19
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 315mg