What Makes the Taylor Ham Sandwich So Special?
I still remember the first time I took a bite of a Taylor sandwich. It was a cold morning at a small Jersey diner, and the scent of sizzling ham filled the air. The waitress dropped a plate in front of me a golden, toasted roll, slightly crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, hugging layers of crispy Taylor Ham, a perfectly cooked egg, and melted cheese. One bite, and I was hooked.
But here’s the thing this isn’t just any breakfast sandwich. This is a Taylor sandwich, a New Jersey icon, a morning ritual, and for many, a taste of home. If you’ve never tried one, you’re missing out on a culinary masterpiece. And if you have? Well, you know exactly why we’re here because once you’ve had one, you want to perfect it at home.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the best Taylor sandwich from its history and ingredients to the perfect cooking technique. Get ready to transform your breakfast game!
What is Taylor Ham? A New Jersey Classic
The History of Taylor Ham
Ever wondered where Taylor Ham comes from? It dates back to 1856 when John Taylor of Trenton, New Jersey, created a processed meat known as “Taylor’s Prepared Ham.” Eventually, regulations forced a name change, and it became “pork roll.” But ask any true Jersey native, and they’ll tell you it’s Taylor Ham, not pork roll!
Why is the Taylor Ham Sandwich So Popular?
A Staple of New Jersey Diner Culture
If you walk into any New Jersey diner, odds are you’ll see a Taylor sandwich on the menu. It’s the ultimate grab-and-go breakfast, offering the perfect balance of salty, savory, and cheesy goodness.
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
A Taylor sandwich isn’t just delicious it’s scientifically satisfying. The crispy edges of the Taylor Ham, the creamy yolk of the egg, the gooey melted cheese, and the soft but sturdy roll? That’s breakfast harmony.
Ingredients You Need for the Best Taylor Ham Sandwich
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about the key players in this legendary sandwich.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Taylor Ham | Salty, crispy, and packed with smoky flavor. Essential! |
| Eggs | Fried, slightly runny yolk for extra richness. |
| Cheese | American cheese melts perfectly, but cheddar is a great alternative. |
| Bread | Hard roll, kaiser roll, or even an English muffin. |
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking!
How to Make the Perfect Taylor Ham Sandwich at Home
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Taylor Ham: Slice the Taylor Ham into four round pieces. To prevent curling, make small cuts around the edges.
- Cook the Taylor Ham: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook the slices until crispy on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Cook the Egg: Crack an egg into the pan and cook to your preferred doneness (runny yolk is ideal).
- Melt the Cheese: Place a slice of cheese on top of the egg and let it melt slightly.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Toast the roll, add the Taylor Ham, place the egg and cheese on top, and close the sandwich.
- Enjoy! Serve hot and dig in!
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Overcooking the Taylor Ham
If you cook it too long, it becomes dry and tough. Keep an eye on it and cook just until crispy!
Choosing the Wrong Bread
Soft sandwich bread won’t hold up. A Taylor sandwich needs a sturdy roll.
Skipping the Proper Egg Cooking Technique
A fully cooked yolk? That’s a rookie mistake. The best Taylor sandwich has a slightly runny yolk for extra flavor.
Variations of the Taylor Ham Sandwich
So, you’ve mastered the classic Taylor sandwich but why stop there? Just like pizza has its toppings, this legendary breakfast sandwich can be customized in endless ways. Whether you’re looking to add crunch, spice, or a healthier twist, we’ve got you covered!
Adding Hash Browns for Extra Crunch
Want to take your Taylor Ham sandwich to the next level? Add a crispy hash brown between the egg and cheese. The crunch perfectly complements the salty Taylor Ham, and let’s be honest who doesn’t love crispy potatoes at breakfast?
How to Add Hash Browns
- Cook a frozen or fresh hash brown patty until golden brown.
- Place it on top of the melted cheese before assembling your sandwich.
- Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Spicy Version: Adding Hot Sauce or Jalapeños
If you like a little heat, spice up your Taylor Ham sandwich with some hot sauce or fresh jalapeños. The kick from the spice contrasts beautifully with the creamy egg and gooey cheese.
Best Ways to Add Heat
- Drizzle hot sauce (like sriracha or Tabasco) over the egg.
- Add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers for an extra crunch.
- Use spicy pepper jack cheese instead of American cheese.
The Healthy Twist: Whole Wheat Bread and Egg Whites
Looking for a lighter version of the Taylor Ham sandwich? Swap out a few ingredients for healthier alternatives without losing that classic flavor.
Healthier Substitutions
| Traditional Ingredient | Healthier Swap |
|---|---|
| White kaiser roll | Whole wheat or multigrain roll |
| Whole egg | Egg whites |
| American cheese | Low-fat cheese or avocado |
| Regular Taylor Ham | Turkey bacon (for a lower-fat option) |
Where to Find the Best Taylor Ham Sandwich in New Jersey
If you’re ever in the Garden State, you must try a Taylor Ham sandwich from a real New Jersey diner. While everyone has their favorites, here are some must-visit spots:
Famous Diners and Delis Known for This Iconic Breakfast
- Slater’s Deli (Leonardo, NJ) – Known for their overstuffed Taylor Ham sandwiches.
- Broad Street Diner (Keyport, NJ) – A classic Jersey diner with a perfect balance of crispy ham, fluffy egg, and melted cheese.
- Tops Diner (East Newark, NJ) – Famous for their massive breakfast sandwiches with double Taylor Ham.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Taylor Ham Sandwich
Can You Freeze Taylor Ham?
Yes! Taylor Ham freezes well. Just slice it, separate with parchment paper, and store in a freezer bag.
What’s the Best Cheese to Use?
American cheese is the classic choice, but Swiss, cheddar, or pepper jack are great alternatives.
Can You Make It Without a Roll?
Of course! Try a Taylor Ham sandwich on an English muffin, bagel, or even as a breakfast burrito.
Explore More Delicious Recipes
Final Thoughts: Why You Need to Try a Taylor Ham Sandwich
A Taylor Ham sandwich isn’t just breakfast it’s a piece of New Jersey culture. Whether you enjoy it the classic way or put your own spin on it, one thing is for sure: once you take a bite, you’ll never go back to ordinary breakfast sandwiches.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some Taylor Ham, crack an egg, melt some cheese, and create your own perfect breakfast sandwich.
Happy cooking with Rita Chef ❤️!
Print
Make the Best Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese sandwich with crispy meat, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese, served on a toasted roll.
Ingredients
Taylor ham or pork roll 2-3 slices
1 egg
1 slice of American cheese
1 Kaiser roll or preferred bread
1 teaspoon butter or oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional condiments ketchup hot sauce or mustard
Instructions
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil
Slice the Taylor ham and make small cuts around the edges to prevent curling
Cook the Taylor ham slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy
In the same pan crack the egg and cook to your preference either sunny-side up over easy or scrambled
Place a slice of cheese on the egg while it’s still warm allowing it to melt slightly
Toast the Kaiser roll lightly for added texture and flavor
Assemble the sandwich by placing the cooked Taylor ham on the bottom half of the roll followed by the egg and melted cheese
Add any optional condiments such as ketchup or hot sauce and close the sandwich
Notes
For extra flavor try adding a slice of tomato or caramelized onions
Swap the Kaiser roll for an English muffin or bagel for a different texture
This sandwich is best served fresh but can be wrapped and reheated later
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: Taylor ham egg and cheese breakfast sandwich