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Satisfy your morning cravings with this homemade version of the sausage egg and cheese breakfast sandwich that made drive thrus famous. Toasted English muffins offer a golden sturdy base for juicy sausage patties melty cheese and a perfectly cooked egg all cleverly layered so you get gooey bites and a filling start to your day. Make them fresh in about 30 minutes for the ultimate weekend brunch or prep ahead for a weekday grab and go breakfast. There is something extra cozy about assembling this classic at home and skipping the lines.
I started making these copycat McMuffins when I was craving the real thing on a Sunday with no restaurants open. My family all agreed they taste even better homemade and now these are a Saturday tradition.
Ingredients
- English muffins: Fresh English muffins deliver a classic base Toast them for texture Look for ones with just a little flour dusting on top
- Sausage patties: The savory drive thru star Pick high quality or make your own so you control the spice level
- Cheese slices: Cheddar or American make it taste nostalgic Choose a good melting cheese so it hugs your sausage and egg
- Eggs: Choose large and fresh eggs They cook up round and fluffy Use local or organic if possible for a bright yellow yolk
- Salt and pepper: Gives simple clean seasoning and always taste as you go
- Butter or oil: You need just a bit for golden browning and nonstick power
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Muffins:
- Butter the inside of each English muffin half Next place them cut side down on a skillet set to medium until they become golden and crisp This step creates a warm sturdy base for all your fillings
- Cook the Sausage:
- Place your sausage patties in the same skillet Turn the heat to medium and let them sear for about three to four minutes per side Flip them once to build a golden brown crust and keep the inside juicy When cooked through transfer them to a plate
- Cook the Eggs:
- Grease your ring mold or wide mouth mason jar lid and set it in the skillet Crack an egg into each mold Leave the eggs undisturbed until the whites look set and the yolks reach your preferred firmness usually two to three minutes Spoon a little water around the rings and cover with a lid if you want fully set tops
- Assemble the McMuffins:
- Lay a cheese slice on the bottom half of each toasted muffin Top with a hot sausage patty Next add the cooked egg Cap with the muffin top and let the heat work its magic melting the cheese right over the fillings
- Enjoy or Save:
- Eat right away for the best flavor or wrap tightly to reheat for a quick meal later on
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Eggs are my favorite part Each time eggs set up in those rings I am reminded of a snowy morning when my kids stood around the stove calling dibs on seconds and delighting in the magic of a homemade breakfast.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool then wrap tightly in foil or plastic and pop them in the fridge They reheat well in the oven or microwave for up to two to three days A quick warmup gives you a hot breakfast in minutes
Ingredient Substitutions
Try turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option Whole wheat English muffins add fiber while your favorite cheese like Swiss or pepper jack can swap in if you want to change up the flavor
Serving Suggestions
Pair these sandwiches with fruit or crispy hashbrowns Add hot sauce or ketchup for that nostalgic fast food twist and a splash of extra flavor
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The McMuffin Story
The Sausage Egg and Cheese McMuffin was introduced by McDonalds in the 1970s as a portable breakfast for people on the go Its lasting fame proves just how comforting breakfast sandwiches can be Making them at home lets you pick your cheese flavor and quality for a truly craveworthy bite
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How can I keep the eggs perfectly round?
Use a ring mold or a mason jar lid set on the skillet. Crack the egg into the mold so it holds a neat, circular shape that fits the muffin.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly! Cheddar, American, Swiss, or even pepper jack can be used. Each offers a distinct flavor and melt to suit your preference.
- → What's the best way to cook sausage patties evenly?
Flatten the patties slightly for even cooking and a better fit. Cook over medium heat, turning once, to achieve a golden crust and juicy inside.
- → Can these sandwiches be made ahead of time?
Yes! Wrap assembled sandwiches in foil or parchment, refrigerate, and reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick breakfast.
- → How do I get melty cheese in my sandwich?
Place the cheese on the toasted muffin base, top with hot sausage and egg, and close with the muffin top. The heat melts the cheese perfectly.
- → Are there lighter ingredient options?
You can use turkey or chicken sausage, and substitute whole wheat English muffins to lighten up the sandwich while keeping great flavor.