Enjoy the delicious and hearty flavors of McDonald’s Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel from the comfort of your own kitchen with this simple copycat recipe. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, it combines savory steak, a perfectly cooked egg, melted cheese, and a soft, toasted bagel.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients:
- 1 bagel (plain or your preferred variety)
- 4 oz ribeye or sirloin steak (or substitute with steak strips)
- 1 large egg
- 1 slice American cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ketchup or hot sauce
Directions:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the desired level of doneness is achieved. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a small amount of butter and toast the bagel halves, cut side down, until golden brown. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, crack the egg and cook to your preference (scrambled, fried, etc.).
- Place a slice of cheese on top of the egg in the skillet, allowing it to melt as the egg finishes cooking.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place the cooked steak on the bottom half of the toasted bagel, followed by the cheesy egg. Top with the other half of the bagel.
- Serve immediately, with optional ketchup or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 550-600 per serving (1 sandwich)
- Protein: 35-40g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 30-35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800-900mg
History of the Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel
The Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel has become a beloved breakfast staple for many, known for its satisfying combination of savory flavors. First introduced by McDonald’s as a limited-time offering, it quickly gained a following due to its hearty nature and delicious taste. While McDonald’s no longer offers this item, the demand for it remains strong, leading to the rise of copycat recipes. The sandwich’s appeal lies in its tender steak, perfectly cooked egg, melted cheese, and soft bagel—ingredients that work together to create a mouthwatering meal. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or a quick meal, this sandwich has earned a special place in the hearts of many.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Making the Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel at home offers the added benefit of being perfect for meal prep. Preparing this dish ahead of time means you can enjoy a fresh, hearty breakfast without the stress of cooking in the morning. Cook the steak and eggs in advance and store them in separate containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply toast a fresh bagel, reheat the steak and egg, and assemble the sandwich. This easy approach to meal prep ensures that you always have a satisfying and wholesome breakfast on hand, making it a convenient choice for busy mornings.
Why Choose This Recipe Over Store-Bought Options?
Although store-bought or fast food versions of the Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel are convenient, making the sandwich at home offers many advantages. The most obvious benefit is control over the ingredients. By preparing it yourself, you can choose premium cuts of steak, opt for your preferred cheese, and select a fresh, bakery-style bagel, rather than relying on pre-packaged or processed alternatives. This also allows you to adjust the sandwich to your personal tastes, whether you prefer a scrambled egg, a fried egg with a runny yolk, or a sunny-side-up egg. Homemade versions also give you the flexibility to control portion sizes, making it easier to stick to dietary goals.
The Importance of the Steak
The steak is the centerpiece of the Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel. Choosing the right cut is crucial to ensure that the sandwich delivers maximum flavor and tenderness. Ribeye and sirloin steaks are two of the most common cuts used, both offering a great balance of taste and texture. Ribeye is known for its rich marbling, which makes it juicy and flavorful. Sirloin, on the other hand, is leaner but still offers a satisfying taste. If you’re looking to reduce fat content, cuts like flank or round steak can also be used.
Perfecting the Egg
The egg is another essential component of this sandwich. Whether you prefer it scrambled, fried, or sunny-side-up, how you cook the egg will impact the texture and flavor of the final product. Scrambled eggs offer a soft, creamy texture, while a fried egg with a runny yolk adds richness to the sandwich. For a bright, yolk-forward experience, a sunny-side-up egg is the perfect choice, giving the sandwich a burst of flavor with every bite.
Choosing the Right Bagel
The bagel you choose for your Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel is just as important as the steak and eggs. The most traditional option is a plain bagel, whose soft, chewy texture complements the savory ingredients inside. However, experimenting with different bagel varieties can elevate the flavor of the sandwich. A sesame or everything bagel adds a nice crunch and extra flavor, while a whole wheat or multi-grain bagel can provide a nutritious boost.
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about the Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel is its versatility. You can customize the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. If you like spicy food, add a drizzle of sriracha, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. For a creamier, richer sandwich, consider spreading some avocado or cream cheese on the bagel before assembling the sandwich.
Serving Suggestions
The Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel is a filling meal that can be served in many different ways. For a lighter option, pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad to balance out the richness of the sandwich. If you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, serve it alongside crispy hash browns or seasoned fries. A cup of hot coffee or freshly squeezed juice would also complement the sandwich nicely, rounding out the meal with a refreshing drink.
Conclusion
The Steak, Egg, and Cheese Bagel is a satisfying, protein-packed breakfast that can easily be recreated at home with simple ingredients. Whether you make it for meal prep, customize it to suit your taste, or experiment with different variations, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a hearty sandwich. The combination of tender steak, creamy egg, melted cheese, and a toasted bagel makes this sandwich a favorite for breakfast lovers everywhere.