Big Breakfast Sandwich: The Ultimate Hearty Morning Meal

By:

Camila

big breakfast sandwich

Mornings can be chaotic, busy, and unpredictable, but one thing can make them better—a big breakfast sandwich. This satisfying meal combines protein, carbs, and healthy fats, keeping you full and energized for hours. Whether you love a classic bacon, egg, and cheese combo or prefer a healthier twist with avocado and spinach, this sandwich is the perfect way to start your day.

Unlike sugary cereals or bland oatmeal, a big breakfast sandwich offers a balance of flavors and textures. The crispy toast, melted cheese, fluffy eggs, and savory meats make every bite a delight. Plus, it’s completely customizable, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on your taste and dietary needs.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the ultimate big breakfast sandwich at home, discover popular fast-food versions, and explore tips to make your sandwich healthier, tastier, and easier to prepare. Let’s dive in!

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What is a Big Breakfast Sandwich?

A big breakfast sandwich is the ultimate morning comfort food, offering a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients. It combines fluffy eggs, crispy or savory meats, melted cheese, and toasted bread, creating a satisfying and protein-packed meal that fuels your body for the day ahead. Whether enjoyed at home, in a diner, or from a fast-food chain, this hearty sandwich is a go-to breakfast choice for many.

One of the biggest reasons for its widespread popularity is its versatility. While the classic version consists of scrambled or fried eggs, bacon or sausage, cheddar cheese, and a toasted English muffin or bagel, there are endless variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Some people opt for a healthier twist by using whole wheat bread, turkey bacon, or egg whites, while others indulge in a gourmet version with avocado, caramelized onions, or artisan cheese.

Beyond its great taste, a big breakfast sandwich is also a powerhouse of nutrition. With high-quality protein from eggs and meat, healthy fats from cheese or avocado, and energizing carbohydrates from bread, it provides long-lasting energy to keep you full and focused throughout the morning. Unlike sugary cereals or pastries that cause an energy crash, this sandwich delivers steady fuel, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings, post-workout meals, or even an easy brunch option.

No matter how you enjoy it—classic, healthy, or gourmet—a big breakfast sandwich is a delicious, satisfying, and adaptable meal that has earned its place as a morning favorite worldwide.

Ingredients and Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a big breakfast sandwich at home is simple. You can control the ingredients to make it healthier, spicier, or extra cheesy. Below is a detailed guide to creating the perfect sandwich.

Ingredients List

IngredientAmountNotes
Bread/Bun2 slices or 1 bunChoose your favorite type (bagel, muffin, croissant)
Eggs2Scrambled, fried, or poached
Breakfast Meat2-3 slicesBacon, sausage, or ham
Cheese1 sliceCheddar, Swiss, or American
Butter/Oil1 tbspFor cooking
Avocado½Optional, for a creamy texture
Tomato Slices2-3Adds freshness
Hot SauceAs neededFor extra spice

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the Eggs
    Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. If making fried eggs, crack them directly into the pan. For scrambled eggs, whisk them in a bowl before cooking. Season with salt and pepper for added flavor.
  2. Prepare the Meat
    In the same skillet, cook bacon until crispy or sausage until browned. If using ham, lightly sear it for extra caramelization. Remove from heat and drain excess grease on a paper towel.
  3. Toast the Bread
    Toast bagels, English muffins, or croissants until golden brown. For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of butter or mayonnaise before toasting.
  4. Assemble the Sandwich
    Layer cheese, eggs, and meat onto the toasted bread. If adding avocado or tomato, place them on top. For extra heat, drizzle with hot sauce or sriracha.
  5. Enjoy!
    Press the sandwich together, slice in half, and serve hot. Pair with hash browns, fruit, or coffee for a complete meal.

Who Sells the Best Big Breakfast Sandwich?

If making one at home isn’t an option, plenty of fast-food chains serve delicious, ready-to-go breakfast sandwiches. Here are some of the best:

  • McDonald’s – Famous for the Egg McMuffin and Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit, both offering a warm, satisfying start to the day.
  • Dunkin’ – Known for hearty bagel sandwiches packed with eggs, cheese, and meat for a filling breakfast.
  • Starbucks – A great spot for healthier choices, such as the Turkey Bacon & Egg White Sandwich on whole-wheat bread.
  • Local Diners – Often provide customizable sandwiches with fresh, high-quality ingredients and homemade touches.

Looking for a homemade alternative? Try this Ultimate Breakfast Sandwich Recipe:
👉 Ultimate Breakfast Sandwich

What Happened to McDonald’s big breakfast sandwich?

For years, McDonald’s big breakfast sandwich was a favorite among customers, offering a platter of scrambled eggs, sausage, hash browns, and a biscuit. However, it was discontinued in many locations, leaving fans wondering why.

Why Did McDonald’s Remove It?

  • Changing Preferences – More customers started opting for healthier, grab-and-go meals instead of full platters.
  • Menu Simplification – Removing items like the big breakfast sandwich helped speed up service and improve efficiency.
  • Focus on Sandwiches – The McMuffin and Biscuit sandwiches became best-sellers, leading McDonald’s to prioritize quick, portable breakfast options.

Miss the big breakfast sandwich? You can easily recreate it at home with scrambled eggs, crispy sausage, a fluffy biscuit, and golden hash browns.

What to Eat for Breakfast with a Big Group?

Hosting a brunch or family breakfast? Instead of making individual sandwiches, set up a DIY Breakfast Sandwich Bar where everyone can customize their own meal.

How to Set Up a DIY Breakfast Sandwich Bar

  • Offer a Variety of Breads – Provide bagels, English muffins, croissants, and biscuits.
  • Provide Different Proteins – Include bacon, sausage, ham, or plant-based alternatives.
  • Include Multiple Cheese Choices – Offer cheddar, Swiss, Pepper Jack, and mozzarella.
  • Add Toppings and Spreads – Let guests choose from avocado, tomatoes, hot sauce, or aioli.
  • Serve with Sides – Pair sandwiches with hash browns, fresh fruit, and coffee for a complete meal.

This setup is easy, fun, and perfect for feeding a crowd while keeping everyone happy with personalized breakfast sandwiches! 🚀

For an easy breakfast sandwich recipe, check out:
👉 Baked Breakfast Sandwiches

How to Make the Ultimate Big Breakfast Sandwich (Continued)

By now, you know the basics of assembling a big breakfast sandwich, but there are additional pro techniques that can take your sandwich from good to incredible. Let’s dive into cooking methods, advanced assembly tips, and ways to enhance flavors for the ultimate breakfast experience.

Cooking Techniques for the Best Texture

The way you cook each ingredient impacts flavor and texture. Here are some expert tips:

  • Perfectly Cooked Eggs: For fluffy scrambled eggs, whisk vigorously before cooking and stir constantly in the pan over low heat. For fried eggs, cook over medium heat and cover the pan to steam the yolk gently.
  • Crispy Bacon Without Grease Overload: Instead of frying, bake bacon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes on a wire rack for even crispiness.
  • Golden, Buttery Bread: Brush your bread or bun lightly with melted butter or mayonnaise before toasting in a pan. This creates a rich, golden crust while keeping the inside soft.

Pro Tips & Flavor Variations

One of the best things about a big breakfast sandwich is how easily customizable it is. Whether you’re looking for a health-conscious option, a gourmet twist, or something with a little heat, there’s a version for every craving. Here are three delicious ways to switch up your breakfast sandwich game:

1. The High-Protein Powerhouse – For a Lean & Nutritious Start

If you’re looking to fuel your morning with extra protein, this variation packs in lean meats, fiber-rich grains, and nutrient-dense add-ons to keep you full for hours.

  • Swap bacon for turkey sausage or grilled chicken – Lower in fat, high in protein.
  • Use whole-grain bread – Provides fiber and steady energy release.
  • Add a fried egg white – A lean protein boost without extra cholesterol.
  • Sprinkle flaxseeds or chia seeds – Rich in omega-3s for brain health.

2. The Gourmet Brunch Sandwich – Elevate Your Breakfast Experience

If you’re craving something a little fancier, this variation adds rich flavors and upscale ingredients for a restaurant-quality sandwich.

  • Use brioche or sourdough bread – A soft, buttery texture or a tangy bite.
  • Add arugula, caramelized onions, and garlic aioli – Layers of flavor with a slight peppery kick.
  • Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese – A creamy, tangy contrast to the savory elements.
  • Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze – A hint of sweetness to balance everything out.

3. The Spicy Southwest Kick – A Bold & Zesty Flavor Boost

For those who love spice, this version adds a southwest flair with smoky flavors and a creamy heat.

  • Swap regular cheese for Pepper Jack – Infuses every bite with a spicy, melty kick.
  • Spread mashed avocado mixed with lime and chili flakes – Creamy with a citrusy zing.
  • Drizzle with chipotle mayo or hot sauce – Adds a smoky depth and extra heat.
  • Top with fresh cilantro and pickled jalapeños – Brightens the flavors with a little crunch.

If you’re looking for even more creative breakfast sandwich ideas, check out this in-depth recipe collection:
👉 Breakfast Sandwich Without Egg

FAQs: Answering Common Breakfast Sandwich Questions

When was the big breakfast sandwich discontinued?

McDonald’s Big Breakfast was gradually phased out in 2016 in many locations. The decision was driven by changing consumer preferences, as more customers opted for faster, handheld breakfast options like McMuffins and Biscuit sandwiches. Additionally, menu simplification helped reduce kitchen wait times and improve service efficiency.

What does a big breakfast consist of?

A big breakfast sandwich typically includes:

  • Eggs – Scrambled or fried for a rich, protein-packed base.
  • Breakfast Meat – Bacon, sausage, or ham for a savory punch.
  • Cheese – Usually cheddar, Swiss, or American for creaminess.
  • Bread – Toasted bagel, croissant, English muffin, or biscuit.
    Many variations also feature avocado, tomato, sautéed veggies, or sauces for added flavor.

Who sells the big breakfast?

If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast sandwich, several fast-food chains offer great options:

  • McDonald’s – Egg McMuffin, Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit.
  • Dunkin’ – Bagel Breakfast Sandwich with eggs, cheese, and meat.
  • Starbucks – Turkey Bacon & Egg White Sandwich for a lighter choice.
  • Local Diners – Often serve customizable versions with fresh ingredients and homemade sauces.

What to eat for breakfast for big groups?

A DIY breakfast sandwich bar is an excellent option for feeding a crowd. Here’s how to set one up:

  1. Offer a variety of breads – Bagels, biscuits, croissants, or English muffins.
  2. Prepare multiple protein options – Bacon, sausage, ham, or plant-based choices.
  3. Provide assorted cheeses – Cheddar, Swiss, Pepper Jack, and mozzarella.
  4. Include fresh toppings – Avocado, tomatoes, spinach, and hot sauce.
  5. Serve complementary sides – Hash browns, fruit salad, and fresh coffee.

For a simple, make-ahead breakfast sandwich recipe, check out:
👉 Baked Breakfast Sandwiches

What replaced The Big Breakfast?

McDonald’s replaced the Big Breakfast platter by focusing on handheld sandwiches, such as the McMuffin and Biscuit sandwiches. This shift allowed them to speed up service and cater to customers who preferred on-the-go meals.

Does McDonald’s still make The Big Breakfast?

The Big Breakfast is no longer widely available, though a few select locations may still serve it. If you’re craving it, you can easily recreate it at home by pairing fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy sausage, a buttery biscuit, and golden hash browns—just like the original!

Print
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The Ultimate Big Breakfast Sandwich


  • Author: Camila
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 sandwich 1x

Description

Start your day with the ultimate big breakfast sandwich—a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. This sandwich combines fluffy eggs, crispy bacon or sausage, melted cheese, and buttery toasted bread for the perfect morning bite. Whether you love the classic bacon, egg, and cheese combo or want a gourmet twist with avocado and spicy mayo, this breakfast sandwich is completely customizable. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, brunch, or feeding a crowd with a DIY sandwich bar!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Sandwich:

  • 2 slices of bread or 1 bagel/croissant/English muffin
  • 2 large eggs (scrambled, fried, or poached)
  • 23 slices of bacon or 1 sausage patty
  • 1 slice of cheddar, Swiss, or American cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter or mayonnaise (for toasting the bread)
  • ½ avocado, sliced (optional, for creaminess)
  • 23 tomato slices (optional, for freshness)
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce or sriracha (optional, for spice)

Instructions

1. Cook the Eggs:

  1. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
  2. For fried eggs, crack them directly into the pan and cook to desired doneness.
  3. For scrambled eggs, whisk eggs in a bowl, season with salt and pepper, then cook while stirring for soft, fluffy texture.

2. Prepare the Meat:

  1. In the same skillet, cook bacon until crispy or brown sausage patties evenly.
  2. If using ham, lightly sear for extra caramelization.
  3. Remove from heat and drain excess grease on a paper towel.

3. Toast the Bread:

  1. Spread butter or mayonnaise on the inside of the bread.
  2. Toast in a hot skillet until golden brown and crispy.

4. Assemble the Sandwich:

 

  1. Layer cheese, eggs, and meat onto the toasted bread.
  2. Add avocado, tomato slices, and hot sauce (if using).
  3. Press the sandwich together, slice in half, and enjoy hot!

Notes

  • Meal Prep Tip: Make multiple sandwiches and wrap in foil for easy reheating throughout the week.
  • Reheating Instructions:
    • Microwave: 30-45 seconds (wrapped in a damp paper towel).
    • Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
  • Custom Variations:
    • The High-Protein Powerhouse: Use turkey sausage and whole-grain bread.
    • The Gourmet Brunch Sandwich: Add arugula, caramelized onions, and garlic aioli.
    • The Spicy Southwest Kick: Swap regular cheese for Pepper Jack and add chipotle mayo.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: ~450-600 kcal
  • Fat: 30-35g
  • Carbohydrates: 35-40g
  • Protein: 25-30g

Conclusion

A big breakfast sandwich isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that brings together bold flavors, satisfying textures, and endless possibilities. Whether you crave the richness of crispy bacon and melted cheese, prefer a healthier version with avocado and whole-grain bread, or love the indulgence of a buttery croissant packed with gourmet ingredients, this sandwich can be whatever you want it to be.

By making your big breakfast sandwich at home, you take full control over ingredients, ensuring a fresher, healthier, and more flavorful start to your day. Plus, with simple cooking techniques, you can elevate a basic sandwich into a restaurant-quality meal in minutes.

Beyond convenience, a homemade breakfast sandwich is an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. Try new cheeses, experiment with different proteins, or add unique toppings like caramelized onions, pesto, or spicy aioli. With just a little effort, you can turn an ordinary morning into something special.

So, whether you’re making breakfast for yourself, your family, or a large group, these expert tips, recipe ideas, and creative variations will help you craft the perfect breakfast sandwich—one that fuels your body, satisfies your cravings, and makes every morning feel like a treat.

Now, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and start your day with the best breakfast sandwich you’ve ever had!

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