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This Egg McMuffin copycat recipe lets you recreate the beloved drive-thru breakfast sandwich at home quickly and easily. It’s perfect for those mornings when you want something satisfying and familiar without the hassle of going out. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a warm, cheesy breakfast ready in about 20 minutes.
I remember making this for my family on a lazy weekend morning and it instantly became a favorite. The cheesy melted egg and savory Canadian bacon hit all the right notes that you normally pay big money for at a fast food place.
Ingredients
- English muffins: choose fresh and sturdy ones so they hold up well when toasted
- Salted butter: adds richness to the muffins and helps crisp the Canadian bacon
- Canadian bacon: lean and flavorful, it gives that signature breakfast meat taste
- Large eggs: fresh eggs make for tender yet well-set cooked eggs inside the mold
- Water: essential for steaming the eggs gently so they set without becoming rubbery
- American cheese slices: melts perfectly creating that gooey layer that binds everything together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slicing and toasting the English muffins:
- Cut each muffin in half and toast until golden and crunchy. Using an oven set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 6 minutes works well and helps keep them warm while you prepare the other components. Lightly butter the insides right after toasting for extra flavor.
- Cooking the Canadian bacon:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Canadian bacon slices and cook until warmed through and lightly browned on both sides. This step enhances the bacon’s flavor and adds a nice caramelized texture.
- Preparing the egg rings and cooking the eggs:
- Grease your egg rings with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking. Melt the remaining butter in the skillet, then place the greased rings in the pan. Crack one egg into each ring and gently break the yolk with a fork so the egg will cook evenly. Pour ½ cup of water around the rings and cover with a lid. Steam the eggs over medium-low heat for about 2 to 3 minutes until fully set.
- Assembling the sandwiches:
- Carefully remove the egg rings and transfer the eggs onto the Canadian bacon placed on the bottom half of each English muffin. Top each egg with a slice of American cheese and cover with the muffin tops. Let the cheese melt slightly before serving. For an extra melty finish, pop the assembled sandwiches back in the oven for 1 to 2 minutes.
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One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the steaming technique for the eggs. It was a game changer for me because it yields eggs that are perfectly set but still tender and moist, avoiding the rubbery texture I struggled with before. It also reminds me of slow weekend mornings when the smell of butter and toasting muffins filled the kitchen.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover sandwiches wrapped individually in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to regain the crispy muffin and melty cheese texture. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
- English muffins can be swapped for toasted bagels or soft sandwich rolls depending on your preference
- Turkey bacon or ham slices make good alternatives to Canadian bacon while keeping the flavor profile close
- Cheddar or Swiss cheese slices can replace American cheese for a sharper or nuttier taste
- For dairy-free versions, use plant-based butter and cheese slices that melt well
Serving Suggestions
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- Serve these sandwiches with fresh fruit or a small side salad for a balanced breakfast
- Add a little hot sauce or ketchup inside the sandwich if you want some extra flavor kick
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice for the perfect morning combo
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep the eggs tender and round?
Use egg rings or similar molds and steam them gently by adding water to the skillet and covering it. This ensures evenly cooked eggs that hold their shape.
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap American cheese for cheddar, Swiss, or your preferred melting cheese to vary the flavor.
- → What’s the best way to toast English muffins?
Toast them in a toaster or bake on a sheet at 350°F for 5-6 minutes until golden and crisp, then butter lightly for extra richness.
- → Is Canadian bacon essential for this sandwich?
Canadian bacon adds a smoky, savory taste, but you can substitute with ham, turkey bacon, or a vegetarian alternative to suit your preference.
- → How long does assembly take after cooking?
Assembly is quick—just layering the bacon, eggs, cheese, and muffin halves. A final 1-2 minute warming helps melt the cheese slightly for best results.