Save Last Saturday morning, I stumbled downstairs craving something that would truly kick-start my weekend. Coffee was brewing, sunlight streaming through the kitchen window, and I had all these beautiful ingredients calling my name. I pulled out my favorite skillet, grabbed some perfectly ripe avocados, and decided today was the day for my loaded breakfast sandwich. The sizzle of bacon hitting the pan brought my teenager wandering into the kitchen, still half-asleep but suddenly interested in what was happening.
I first created this sandwich during a camping trip when I was determined to prove that great breakfast food doesnt require a fancy kitchen. We had packed a small cast iron pan, some bacon, eggs, and a loaf of sourdough, and I improvised with an avocado that was miraculously unbruised after being hauled up a mountain. Everyone was so impressed watching me flip the eggs on a tiny camp stove, they demanded I make it again the next morning. Now its become a tradition whenever we have overnight guests.
Ingredients
- Thick-cut bread: I prefer sourdough for its tanginess and sturdiness, but honestly, Ive made this with everything from brioche to whole wheat depending on what needs using up.
- Bacon: The rendered fat from the bacon adds incredible flavor to the eggs if you cook them in the same pan, so dont throw it all away.
- Eggs: Room temperature eggs are less likely to crack when they hit the pan and cook more evenly.
- Avocado: Choose one thats yielding but not mushy when you gently press it, and slice it just before assembling to prevent browning.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to, but pepper jack adds a nice kick if youre in the mood for something spicier.
Instructions
- Crisp up that bacon:
- Lay your bacon strips in a cold skillet, then turn the heat to medium allowing them to cook slowly and evenly. Youll know theyre perfect when they reach that gorgeous mahogany color and the kitchen smells like heaven.
- Toast with intention:
- After wiping the skillet, add a touch of butter and toast your bread until golden and fragrant. I like to press it gently with the spatula to ensure maximum contact with the hot surface.
- Craft the perfect egg:
- For a sunny-side-up egg, crack it into the residual bacon fat, cover briefly with a lid to help the top set without flipping. The whites should be firm but the yolk gloriously runny.
- Begin the assembly:
- Place cheese on the warm toast immediately so it starts to soften from the residual heat. This creates that perfect melty foundation for your sandwich.
- Layer with precision:
- Arrange your bacon, sliced avocado, and any optional additions like tomato or greens. Think about creating varied textures and flavors in each bite.
- Crown with the egg:
- Carefully slide your egg on top of the stack, keeping that beautiful yolk intact. This becomes the crowning glory of your breakfast creation.
- Complete and serve:
- Top with the second slice of toast and press gently to marry all the flavors together. Cut diagonally if youre feeling fancy or want to see that glorious cross-section.
Save One rainy Sunday morning, my neighbor knocked on the door with an urgent plumbing problem, and I invited him in while waiting for the maintenance crew. The aroma of this breakfast sandwich was filling my apartment, and his eyes lit up when I offered him one. We ended up sitting at my tiny kitchen counter, trading stories over these sandwiches, forgotten plumbing crisis momentarily sidelined by good food. He still mentions that sandwich whenever we cross paths in the hallway.
Make-Ahead Options
While nothing beats a freshly assembled sandwich, you can prepare several components ahead of time to streamline your morning. Cook the bacon the night before and store it in the refrigerator, then quickly warm it in the microwave or skillet before assembling. I sometimes pre-slice my tomatoes and store them between paper towels in an airtight container, which keeps them fresh without making the bread soggy. Just leave the avocado and egg for fresh preparation in the morning to maintain their texture and temperature.
Variations Worth Trying
This sandwich framework invites creative experimentation based on what you have available. During summer, I love adding a few basil leaves and a slice of fresh mozzarella for a caprese-inspired twist. In fall, a schmear of pumpkin butter underneath the cheese adds sweet warmth. Winter calls for heartier additions like roasted red peppers or a drizzle of hot honey. Spring brings tender microgreens or a light smear of herb-infused cream cheese that brightens the whole experience.
Serving Suggestions
The way you serve this sandwich can elevate it from merely delicious to absolutely memorable. I like presenting it on my blue stoneware plates with a small side of fresh berries for a color pop and palate cleanser between bites. If youre hosting brunch, set up a sandwich bar where everyone can build their own creation to their preferences.
- A small mason jar of cold brew coffee makes the perfect accompaniment, especially when served with a cinnamon stick stirrer.
- For a special occasion breakfast, add a small glass of freshly squeezed orange juice with a sprig of mint.
- If youre serving these for a crowd, keep them warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven for up to 15 minutes before serving.
Save This loaded breakfast sandwich has become my Saturday signature, a small act of self-care that signals the weekend has officially begun. Whether Im making it just for myself or sharing it with loved ones, theres something deeply satisfying about creating something so simple yet so perfect.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients the night before. Cook bacon in advance and store refrigerated, slice avocado in the morning to prevent browning, and assemble just before eating for optimal texture.
- → What's the best way to cook the egg for this sandwich?
Over-easy or sunny side up eggs work wonderfully as the runny yolk adds richness. For less mess, try over-hard or scrambled eggs. Cook to your preferred doneness and season well with salt and pepper.
- → How do I keep the sandwich from falling apart?
Toast the bread until sturdy and golden, layer ingredients evenly, and press down gently before cutting. Using a toothpick or wrapping in parchment paper helps hold everything together, especially if cutting in half.
- → What cheese works best for this sandwich?
Cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharp flavor, but Swiss, American, provolone, or pepper jack all work well. Choose based on your taste preference and let it melt slightly on the warm toast for best results.
- → Can I make a vegetarian version?
Absolutely. Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms, veggie sausage patties, or extra avocado. You can also add roasted red peppers or caramelized onions for additional flavor and texture without meat.
- → What type of bread is recommended?
Thick-cut sourdough, whole wheat, or brioche all provide excellent structure and flavor. Choose bread sturdy enough to hold the fillings without getting soggy. Gluten-free options work well too for dietary needs.