Basic Breakfast Sandwich

1. Prepare Bread & Meat: If using an English muffin or bagel, split and toast it to your desired crispness. If using bread, toast it. If using breakfast meat, cook it now: fry bacon until crispy, cook sausage patty through, or warm ham in a skillet. Keep the bread and meat warm.

2. Cook the Egg: Heat 1/2 teaspoon of butter or cooking oil in a small non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Crack the egg directly into the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

For a Fried Egg: Cook until the whites are set and the yolk is cooked to your preference (runny, jammy, or firm). You can flip it once for an over-easy or over-hard egg.

For Scrambled Egg: Gently whisk the egg in the pan as it sets, until fluffy and cooked through.

For an Omelet Style: Cook without stirring until edges set, then fold in half. You can add cheese directly to the egg in the pan before folding.

3. Melt the Cheese: Once the egg is cooked to your liking, immediately place the slice of cheese on top of the hot egg. If using a lid, cover the skillet for about 30 seconds to allow the cheese to melt perfectly. If not, the residual heat should be enough to melt it.

4. Assemble the Sandwich: Place the bottom half of your toasted bread product on your plate. Top with the cooked breakfast meat (if using), then carefully slide the cheesy egg from the skillet onto the meat (or directly onto the bread).

Add any optional condiments like ketchup, hot sauce, or mayonnaise. Layer with fresh veggies such as avocado, tomato, or spinach if desired. Place the top half of the bread product on top.

Serve immediately while hot and the cheese is melty. Enjoy your custom basic breakfast sandwich!