What makes bacon a popular choice for breakfast?

Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor and satisfying crispy texture, making morning dishes both delicious and filling. Its versatility allows it to complement eggs, potatoes, baked goods, and more.

How can I make a quick bacon breakfast on busy mornings?

Try portable bacon egg cups or speedy breakfast burritos. Both options can be prepped ahead and enjoyed on the go for a protein-packed start to your day.

Are there sweet and savory breakfast options with bacon?

Absolutely. Savory items like bacon-cheddar burritos and egg skillets are crowd-pleasers, while maple bacon cinnamon rolls and bacon-studded granola add a sweet spin.

What tips help get bacon perfectly crispy in breakfast dishes?

Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat for even crispiness. Reserve some of the fat for cooking potatoes or eggs to boost flavor in your dish.

Can bacon be incorporated in baked breakfast items?

Yes—fold crispy bacon into muffin batters, layer it in strata casseroles, or sprinkle it onto breakfast waffles for extra savory goodness.

How is bacon used in international breakfast dishes?

Bacon brings a flavorful touch to global favorites like Ukrainian breakfast potatoes or Mexican sausage and eggs, offering new taste experiences without losing its familiar appeal.

Easy Breakfast Ideas With Bacon

Section: Rise and Shine with Delicious Breakfast Recipes

From classic bacon and eggs to creative twists like maple bacon cinnamon rolls and cheddar bacon waffles, this collection highlights the many ways bacon enhances morning meals. Explore one-pan breakfast skillets, hearty baked casseroles, portable egg cups, and globally inspired favorites like Ukrainian potatoes or Mexican bacon and eggs. Whether you want a speedy bite or a leisurely brunch, these ideas combine the irresistible flavor of bacon with satisfying ingredients for a delicious start to your day. Each dish offers hints and tips for perfect texture, cooking times, and flavor balance, ensuring breakfast is always tasty and memorable.

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Recipe Author Maria

Updated as of Thu, 05 Jun 2025 15:55:28 GMT

A bowl of food with bacon and pasta. | foodbymary.com

Waking up to the aroma of bacon sizzling in the pan is enough to brighten any morning in my house. Bacon transforms classic breakfasts into something magical—from the simplest egg dishes to hearty skillet meals loaded with savory flavors. If you crave variety and big flavor, these easy breakfast ideas with bacon will give your morning a delicious jumpstart.

I first started making bacon breakfast skillets when my kids became picky about eggs. Now these recipes are requested every weekend and never fail to bring everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredients

Potatoes: choose russet potatoes for their fluffy interior and crisp outside when sautéed or baked
Bacon: thick cut or center cut bacon offers the best flavor and stays crisp longer select fresh bright pink slices without excess fat
Eggs: opt for large eggs with orange-yellow yolks for richer flavor and better texture
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese: for gooey melt and savory tang use block cheese you shred yourself for freshest result
All purpose flour: for pancakes and waffles lends structure and a tender crumb choose unbleached flour for subtle flavor
Buttermilk: adds lightness and tang to breakfast batters select real cultured buttermilk from the dairy section
Maple syrup: enhances sweet and savory dishes genuine pure maple syrup brings best taste
Brioche buns or good quality sandwich bread: for handheld breakfasts adds a soft buttery bite
Tips for choosing bacon: always look for even marbling bright color and avoid packages with lots of liquid

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:: Cut russet potatoes into small cubes. Place them in a bowl of cold water for about ten minutes. This rinses off some surface starch which helps the potatoes cook up crisp in the skillet.
Cook the Bacon:: Lay bacon strips in a cold skillet. Turn the heat to medium and let the bacon slowly render its fat and turn crisp. Flip occasionally. Once crisp transfer bacon to paper towels and pour off most of the fat leaving about two tablespoons in the pan.
Sauté the Potatoes:: Add drained potatoes and a pinch of salt to the hot skillet with bacon fat. Cook over medium heat without stirring for about ten minutes so bottoms get golden and crispy. Stir then let sit again to get all sides crisp.
Add Cheese and Make Egg Wells:: Sprinkle the hot potatoes with shredded cheese. Using a spatula make several wells in the potato mixture. Crack eggs directly into these wells.
Finish Cooking and Serve:: Cover skillet and let the eggs cook gently in the steam for four to seven minutes depending on how runny you like the yolks. Crumble crispy bacon over eggs and potatoes. Slide onto plates and serve immediately.

A plate of food with eggs, tomatoes, and bacon. | foodbymary.com

My favorite ingredient will always be bacon but the way it crisps and flavors potatoes in the skillet brings me right back to big family brunches on snowy weekends when everyone lingered at the table just to steal one more bite of crispy bits.

Storage Tips

Bacon potato and egg skillet keeps well in a sealed container for up to three days in the fridge. To reheat use a skillet on low heat with a splash of water and cover to help keep the potatoes moist. For hand-held options like bacon egg muffins wrap tightly and freeze up to two months then reheat in the oven or microwave.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap cheddar for mozzarella or even pepper jack for a spicy version. Turkey bacon works if you want something lighter though it is less fatty and crispy. For extra veggies try slipping spinach bell pepper or mushrooms into your skillet. No buttermilk on hand just use regular milk with a squeeze of lemon mixed in.

A slice of bacon and tomato on a plate. | foodbymary.com

Serving Suggestions

Round out any bacon breakfast with a side of fresh fruit or sliced tomatoes to balance the richness. Pancakes or waffles with bacon shine with a drizzle of maple syrup. For special brunches serve with a simple green salad and a fresh squeezed juice.

Cultural and Historical Context

Bacon has been a breakfast staple in the US and UK for hundreds of years but you will find interesting bacon twists around the globe. Ukrainian breakfast potatoes highlight the power of bacon to flavor humble root vegetables while Mexican style sausage bacon and eggs combine international influences into one bold dish. The sweet and savory pairing of maple and bacon in North American pastries is now a classic that brings together old traditions with creative new twists.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes bacon a popular choice for breakfast?: Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor and satisfying crispy texture, making morning dishes both delicious and filling. Its versatility allows it to complement eggs, potatoes, baked goods, and more.
→ How can I make a quick bacon breakfast on busy mornings?: Try portable bacon egg cups or speedy breakfast burritos. Both options can be prepped ahead and enjoyed on the go for a protein-packed start to your day.
→ Are there sweet and savory breakfast options with bacon?: Absolutely. Savory items like bacon-cheddar burritos and egg skillets are crowd-pleasers, while maple bacon cinnamon rolls and bacon-studded granola add a sweet spin.
→ What tips help get bacon perfectly crispy in breakfast dishes?: Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat for even crispiness. Reserve some of the fat for cooking potatoes or eggs to boost flavor in your dish.
→ Can bacon be incorporated in baked breakfast items?: Yes—fold crispy bacon into muffin batters, layer it in strata casseroles, or sprinkle it onto breakfast waffles for extra savory goodness.
→ How is bacon used in international breakfast dishes?: Bacon brings a flavorful touch to global favorites like Ukrainian breakfast potatoes or Mexican sausage and eggs, offering new taste experiences without losing its familiar appeal.

Easy Breakfast Ideas With Bacon

Enjoy a variety of simple bacon breakfasts with sweet and savory options for busy mornings or easy brunches.

Prep Time

60 minutes

Cooking Time

90 minutes

Overall Time

150 minutes

Recipe Author: Maria

Dish Category: Breakfast

Recipe Difficulty: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine: International

Serves: 12 Serving Size (12 servings or as component quantities specified)

Dietary Options: ~

What You’ll Need to Cook

→ Cheesy Bacon and Egg Hash

Ingredient 01 680 g Russet potatoes, diced (approx. 4 medium potatoes)

Ingredient 02 200 g bacon, diced

Ingredient 03 4 large eggs

Ingredient 04 60 ml shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

→ Savory Pancakes with Bacon

Ingredient 05 125 g all-purpose flour

Ingredient 06 25 g granulated sugar

Ingredient 07 6 g baking powder

Ingredient 08 2 g baking soda

Ingredient 09 2 g coarse salt

Ingredient 10 310 ml buttermilk

Ingredient 11 30 g unsalted butter, melted

Ingredient 12 1 large egg

Ingredient 13 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

→ Bacon Cheddar Waffles

Ingredient 14 240 g all-purpose flour

Ingredient 15 7 g baking powder

Ingredient 16 2 g salt

Ingredient 17 350 ml milk

Ingredient 18 60 g unsalted butter, melted

Ingredient 19 2 large eggs

Ingredient 20 100 g cheddar cheese, shredded

Ingredient 21 100 g bacon, cooked and chopped

→ Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredient 22 350 g bread flour

Ingredient 23 60 g granulated sugar

Ingredient 24 7 g instant yeast

Ingredient 25 2 g salt

Ingredient 26 180 ml warm milk

Ingredient 27 50 g unsalted butter, melted

Ingredient 28 1 large egg

Ingredient 29 80 g cooked bacon, crumbled

Ingredient 30 120 g brown sugar (filling)

Ingredient 31 10 g ground cinnamon (filling)

Ingredient 32 60 g unsalted butter, softened (filling)

Ingredient 33 80 ml maple syrup (glaze)

Ingredient 34 80 g icing sugar (glaze)

→ Bacon Cheddar Muffins

Ingredient 35 250 g all-purpose flour

Ingredient 36 10 g baking powder

Ingredient 37 4 g salt

Ingredient 38 200 ml milk

Ingredient 39 2 large eggs

Ingredient 40 70 g unsalted butter, melted

Ingredient 41 100 g cheddar cheese, grated

Ingredient 42 80 g bacon, cooked and chopped

→ Bacon Egg Cups

Ingredient 43 6 slices bacon

Ingredient 44 6 large eggs

Ingredient 45 30 g cheddar cheese, grated (optional)

→ Brioche Breakfast Toast

Ingredient 46 2 brioche buns

Ingredient 47 4 slices bacon

Ingredient 48 2 eggs

Ingredient 49 30 ml chipotle aioli

→ Bacon, Egg, and Potato Breakfast Skillet

Ingredient 50 500 g potatoes, cubed

Ingredient 51 150 g bacon, chopped

Ingredient 52 100 g cheddar cheese, shredded

Ingredient 53 4 eggs

Ingredient 54 Salt, to taste

Ingredient 55 Black pepper, to taste

→ Ukrainian Breakfast Potatoes

Ingredient 56 500 g potatoes, cubed

Ingredient 57 100 g bacon, chopped

Ingredient 58 1 onion, diced

→ Mexican-Style Sausage, Bacon, and Eggs

Ingredient 59 100 g chorizo sausage

Ingredient 60 80 g bacon, cooked and chopped

Ingredient 61 4 eggs

Ingredient 62 40 g queso fresco, crumbled

Steps to Prepare

Step 01

Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add diced bacon and cook until crisp. Remove most of the rendered fat, leaving enough to coat the skillet. Add diced potatoes and cook undisturbed until golden and crispy.

Step 02

Create wells in the pan among the potatoes and bacon. Carefully crack eggs into the wells. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are set to your preference.

Step 03

In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, melted butter, and the egg. Mix wet ingredients into the dry, then fold in crumbled cooked bacon.

Step 04

Preheat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour batter onto the pan, forming pancakes. Cook until bubbles surface, flip, then cook until golden brown. Serve warm.

Step 05

Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In a separate bowl, beat eggs with milk and melted butter, then stir wet into dry ingredients. Fold in cheddar and bacon.

Step 06

Preheat the waffle iron. Pour batter into the iron and cook until crisp and golden. Remove and serve immediately.

Step 07

Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a mixing bowl. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix to form a dough and knead until smooth. Allow to rise until doubled.

Step 08

Roll dough into a rectangle. Spread with softened butter, sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon, then scatter crumbled bacon. Roll up tightly, slice, arrange in a baking dish, and allow to rise again.

Step 09

Bake rolls in a preheated oven at 180°C until golden brown. Mix maple syrup and icing sugar for the glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Step 10

Preheat oven to 180°C. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in cheese and chopped bacon.

Step 11

Spoon batter into lined muffin tins and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Cool slightly before serving.

Step 12

Preheat oven to 200°C. Line muffin tin cups with bacon to form a nest. Crack an egg into each cup, sprinkle with cheese if desired. Bake until eggs are set.

Step 13

Toast brioche buns. Top with crispy bacon, a freshly fried or poached egg, and a generous spoonful of chipotle aioli.

Step 14

Cook bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove and set aside. In the bacon fat, cook cubed potatoes until crispy. Return bacon to skillet, add cheese, crack eggs over mixture, cover, and cook until eggs reach desired doneness. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 15

In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon until fat renders, add potatoes and onions, sauté until potatoes are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 16

Cook chorizo in a skillet over medium heat. Add bacon and stir until both are crisp. Push to the side, scramble eggs in remaining fat, then mix with meats and sprinkle with queso fresco before serving.

Extra Cooking Tips

For crispier potatoes, avoid stirring them too frequently while cooking in the skillet.
Eggs can be cooked to preference, from runny yolks to fully set.
Cooked bacon can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to three days for quick breakfasts.

Must-Have Tools

Large skillet
Non-stick frying pan
Waffle iron
Oven
Mixing bowls
Muffin tin
Whisk

Allergen Information

Always check ingredient labels for allergens and seek expert advice if uncertain.

Contains eggs and dairy
Contains gluten

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for guidance and aren’t a replacement for professional advice.

Calories Count: 382
Fats: 26 grams
Carbs: 18 grams
Proteins: 19 grams