Bobby Flay’s Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Copycat Recipe

Bobby Flay’s Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich is an elevated take on the classic New York breakfast staple. Featuring crispy bacon, perfectly cooked eggs, melted American cheese, spicy harissa, and a toasted brioche roll, this sandwich combines familiar comfort food with bold flavors.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

This breakfast sandwich delivers everything people love about a classic bacon, egg, and cheese: crispy bacon, creamy melted cheese, and fluffy eggs. The addition of harissa adds a smoky, spicy kick, while the buttery brioche roll gives the sandwich a rich, restaurant-style finish.

What Is the Dish?

The bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich is a beloved American breakfast classic, especially associated with New York City bodegas and neighborhood delis. Traditionally served on a soft roll, the sandwich became popular because it was affordable, filling, and easy to eat on the go.

Bobby Flay’s version keeps the spirit of the original while adding his signature Southwestern and Mediterranean-inspired touches with harissa, a North African chili paste made with peppers and spices. Fun fact: the BEC has become a cultural icon in New York, with countless variations appearing on menus—from classic versions with ketchup to gourmet interpretations featuring specialty breads, cheeses, and sauces.

Cooking Tips

• Cook bacon slowly over medium heat to render the fat and create crisp, evenly cooked slices.
• Save some bacon fat in the pan to add extra flavor to the eggs.
• Cover the pan briefly after adding water to create steam and melt the cheese evenly.
• Toast the brioche roll for better texture and to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Adjust the amount of harissa depending on your preferred spice level.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Bread Works Best for a Bacon, Egg, and Cheese?

A brioche roll adds richness, but Kaiser rolls, bagels, English muffins, or soft breakfast rolls also work well.

Can I Use Another Cheese?

Yes. American cheese melts beautifully, but Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack can also be used.

What Is Harissa?

Harissa is a North African chili paste made with peppers, garlic, spices, and oil. It adds smoky heat and depth to the sandwich.

Can I Make This Breakfast Sandwich Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can cook the bacon and prepare the components ahead, but assemble just before eating for the best texture.

Can I Add More Toppings?

Absolutely. Try avocado, hot sauce, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

How to Store

Store leftover cooked bacon and eggs separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before assembling the sandwich with a freshly toasted roll.

How to Freeze

Freezing the fully assembled sandwich is not recommended because the brioche and eggs may change texture after thawing. However, cooked bacon and scrambled or fried egg portions can be frozen separately for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ingredients

• 2 slices bacon
• 2 medium eggs
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 slice American cheese
• 1 tbsp water
• 1–2 tbsps harissa
• 1 brioche roll, sliced, scooped, and toasted

How to Make Bobby Flay's Favorite Bacon, Egg and Cheese

1. Place bacon slices in a non-stick sauté pan over medium heat. Cook slowly until crisp, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat from the pan.
2. Crack eggs into the pan with bacon fat. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until whites are set and yolks are still slightly soft, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Place American cheese over the eggs. Add water to the pan and immediately cover with a tight-fitting lid for 15–20 seconds until the cheese melts.
4. Toast the brioche roll and spread harissa on both cut sides.
5. Add the cheesy eggs to the bottom half of the roll, top with crispy bacon, and close with the top bun.
6. Enjoy immediately while the cheese is melted and the bacon is crisp.