The Fried Egg Sandwich is a breakfast classic that’s as simple as it is satisfying. Made with gooey melted cheese, thinly sliced deli ham, and a rich, runny egg nestled between two slices of golden, buttery bread, this sandwich hits all the right notes. It’s warm, savory, and comforting—perfect for slow mornings, quick lunches, or even a cozy dinner when you’re craving something easy and indulgent. What sets this version apart is the double cheese—both white and yellow American—which adds creamy richness, and the thin layer of ham that brings a smoky-salty balance to the silky egg yolk.
Unlike scrambled egg sandwiches that tend to be more uniform, this sandwich celebrates texture. You get the softness of the bread’s center, the crunch of the toasted outside, and that irresistible yolk that seeps into every bite. It’s quick to make and customizable—swap the ham for bacon, add some hot sauce, or layer in sliced avocado for a modern twist. Whatever your preference, this sandwich delivers cozy satisfaction in minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Ready in under 15 minutes
• Melty cheese, savory ham, and runny egg in every bite
• Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
• Great for breakfast, brunch, or a quick dinner
• Can be customized to fit your taste
Ingredients
• 2 slices white bread
• 1 slice white American cheese
• 1 slice yellow American cheese
• 2 slices thinly sliced deli ham
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Assemble the Sandwich
Lay the two slices of white bread flat on your prep surface.
Place 1 slice of white American cheese on one slice of bread and 1 slice of yellow American cheese on the other.
Top each cheese slice with 1 slice of thinly sliced ham.
Have this sandwich ready to go, as you’ll need it as soon as the egg is cooked.
Step 2: Fry the Egg
Heat a small non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Crack the egg into the skillet and cook over easy—the white should be fully set, while the yolk remains runny.
Season the egg with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper.
Once done, gently transfer the egg onto the side of the sandwich with the white American cheese.
Bring the two sides of the sandwich together to close, placing the ham-and-cheese slice over the egg. Be careful not to press down, or the yolk may break.
Step 3: Toast the Sandwich
Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
Brush one outer side of the sandwich with melted butter and place it butter-side down in the skillet.
Brush the top side with the remaining melted butter.
Cover the skillet loosely with aluminum foil to help the cheese melt evenly.
Cook until the bottom is golden brown, then flip carefully and cook the other side until it is also golden and the cheese is fully melted. This should take about 3–4 minutes per side, depending on your pan and stove.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Remove from the skillet and let the sandwich sit for a minute before slicing in half. This helps the cheese set slightly while keeping the yolk intact.
Serve warm, with a side of fruit, a small salad, or enjoy it solo as a satisfying, one-handed meal.
Tips for Success
• Don’t press the sandwich while cooking—you want to preserve that luscious yolk.
• Use medium-low heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
• Covering the skillet helps trap heat and melt the cheese more evenly.
• Use freshly cracked black pepper for a punchier flavor.
• Want extra crunch? Toast the inside of the bread lightly before assembling.
Storage and Reheating
Fried egg sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh because of the runny yolk and crisped bread. However, if you need to:
• Refrigerator: Wrap the sandwich in foil and store for up to 24 hours.
• Reheat: Warm in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until heated through and crisped on the outside. Microwaving is not recommended, as it can make the bread soggy and overcook the egg.
Variations
• Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sriracha.
• Green Boost: Slip in a few spinach leaves or avocado slices.
• Swap the Meat: Use bacon, turkey, or leave it vegetarian with extra cheese.
• Bread Upgrade: Try sourdough, brioche, or a crusty roll for different textures.
This Fried Egg Sandwich recipe proves that something simple can still be utterly delicious. With just a few basic ingredients and 15 minutes, you’ll have a golden, gooey, and deeply satisfying sandwich that’s sure to hit the spot any time of day.
