This grilled sandwich combines the savory richness of a perfectly fried egg, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the fresh tang of ripe tomato slices, all nestled between golden, buttery bread. It’s an elevated comfort food that works just as well for breakfast as it does for lunch or dinner. Each bite is a balance of textures and flavors, making this sandwich a true crowd-pleaser.
Did You Know?
Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, while tomatoes provide a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene. Combined with cheese and golden grilled bread, this sandwich is not only delicious but also nutrient-packed. Fun fact: The first recorded sandwich featuring eggs dates back to the 19th century, proving it’s been a staple for centuries!
Yield
4 sandwiches
Ingredients
8 slices of artisan or whole-grain bread4 large eggs
4 slices of cheddar, Swiss, or Havarti cheese
8 slices of ripe tomato
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small pat of butter to the skillet and crack the eggs one at a time, frying them to your preferred doneness (sunny-side up or over easy). Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the cooked eggs to a plate and keep warm.
Personal Tip: If you prefer your yolks slightly runny, cook the eggs for about 2-3 minutes without flipping. For a firmer yolk, flip and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet. Layer with one slice of cheese, two slices of tomato, a fried egg, and another slice of cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwiches
Cook the sandwiches over medium heat for 3–4 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Press gently with a spatula for even grilling.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the sandwiches in half and serve warm. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and pair with a side salad or a frosty glass of milk.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 410, Protein: 20g, Carbohydrates: 28g, Fiber: 2g, Net Carbohydrates: 26g, Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 12g, Cholesterol: 220mg, Sodium: 670mg, Sugars: 3g, Glycemic Index: Medium
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Bread Choices: Use hearty bread like sourdough or multigrain for better structure and flavor.
- Cheese Options: Mix cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a gooey, flavorful sandwich.
- Tomato Prep: Pat the tomato slices dry with a paper towel to prevent sogginess in the sandwich.
- Egg Cooking Tip: Fry the eggs in a ring mold for a perfectly round shape that fits the bread.
- Herb Additions: Sprinkle fresh basil or chives inside the sandwich for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Save Time: Pre-toast the bread lightly before assembling for faster grilling.
- Reduce Calories: Use olive oil spray instead of butter for a lighter version.
- Batch Cooking: Fry all the eggs at once on a large griddle if making multiple sandwiches.
- Creative Pairings: Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a light fruit salad for a complete meal.
Let’s Learn About Eggs
Eggs are one of the most versatile ingredients in cooking. Here’s what to look for when choosing eggs:
- Free-Range Eggs: These are from hens that roam freely, offering better flavor and ethical farming practices.
- Organic Eggs: Produced without synthetic pesticides or antibiotics, these are a healthier option.
- Omega-3 Enriched Eggs: These eggs come from hens fed an omega-3-rich diet, making them a great source of healthy fats.
Eggs are packed with essential nutrients like choline, which supports brain health, and lutein, which benefits eye health. They’re a kitchen staple for a reason!
Enjoy this warm and comforting grilled fried egg, cheese, and tomato sandwich as a quick meal or a satisfying treat.