
Craving the satisfying flavors of McDonald’s breakfast sandwich without the fastfood trip? This copycat Steak, Egg, and Cheese sandwich brings together tender steak, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and a toasted bagel for a hearty meal perfect to jumpstart your day. It’s a homemade delight that feels special but comes together quickly and easily.
I first made this during a weekend brunch experiment, and now it has become a regular request from my family any weekend morning. It’s definitely a crowdpleaser that tastes way better fresh.
Ingredients
- Plain bagels: sliced to provide a sturdy base that toasts nicely
- Butter: to toast the bagels adding a golden crunch and rich flavor
- American cheese: for classic meltiness, but feel free to swap cheddar for a bolder taste
- Large eggs: mixed with milk to create fluffy, tender scrambled eggs
- Salt and black pepper: to season and balance the flavors
- Oil or butter for cooking eggs: to keep them moist and nonstick
- Shaved beef steak: such as ribeye or sirloin for tender, flavorful meat
- Garlic powder and onion powder: for gentle layers of seasoning
- Smoked paprika: brings a subtle smoky depth that complements the steak
- Quality steak: is key, opt for fresh cuts and avoid preseasoned meat for control over flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak:
- Heat one tablespoon of oil in a skillet over mediumhigh heat so the pan is nicely heated but not smoking. Add the shaved beef steak and sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper evenly. Cook for three to four minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch for a nice brown color while keeping the steak juicy. Remove from heat and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the Eggs:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully blended and airy. Heat one tablespoon of oil or butter in a clean nonstick skillet over medium heat to coat the surface. Pour in the egg mixture and gently scramble using a spatula. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are just set but still moist and fluffy. Divide the eggs evenly into four portions.
- Toast the Bagels:
- Slice each bagel in half horizontally. Toast the halves in a toaster or on a skillet with a little butter until golden brown and slightly crispy. This step ensures the sandwich layers stay separate and prevents sogginess.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Place a slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bagel to allow melting from the warm ingredients. Add a portion of the fluffy scrambled eggs evenly spread over the cheese. Top with a generous spoonful of the cooked steak, distributing it evenly so every bite has meat. Cover with the top half of the bagel.
- Melt and Serve:
- If you want extra gooey cheese, place the assembled sandwiches in a skillet over low heat or in a warm oven for one to two minutes. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy every flavorful bite.

My favorite part of this sandwich is the tender steak especially when you use quality ribeye. The smoky spices paired with creamy cheese remind me of lazy weekend mornings with family where everyone gathers around the table requesting seconds. It’s these little moments that make homemade so special.
Storage tips
Wrap sandwiches individually in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped sandwiches for up to one month. Reheat wrapped in foil in a 350degree oven for about 10 minutes or microwave with a damp paper towel covering for one to two minutes to keep the bread soft.
Ingredient substitutions
Switch bagels out for English muffins, croissants, or sandwich rolls for different textures. Use provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese to add variety or spice. Any thinly sliced tender steak or roast beef works well when substituted for ribeye or sirloin.
Serving suggestions
Pair with crispy hash browns for a classic fast food vibe. Fresh fruit balances out the savory richness for a refreshing side. Smoothies or your favorite coffee make perfect morning companions. Yogurt parfaits add a lighter, fresh element to round out the meal.

Enjoy this hearty copycat breakfast that is easy to make and simple to customize to your taste. It makes busy mornings delicious and portable.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What cut of steak works best?
Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin provides the best flavor and tender texture for this sandwich.
- → How can I keep the eggs fluffy?
Whisk eggs with a bit of milk and cook them gently on medium heat until soft and moist for optimal fluffiness.
- → Can I substitute the bagel with other bread?
Yes, English muffins or croissants make great alternatives, adding different textures and flavors.
- → What cheese types work well here?
American cheese melts perfectly, but cheddar or provolone can offer sharper or milder flavors respectively.
- → How should I store and reheat the sandwich?
Wrap tightly and refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to a month. Reheat in microwave, oven, or toaster oven for best results.
- → Can I add vegetables to the sandwich?
Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach add flavor and nutrition without overpowering the core ingredients.