Bacon & Eggs Recipe

Prepare bacon

Remove bacon from refrigerator and separate slices so they’re not stuck together. Pat dry with paper towel if damp.

Cook bacon in skillet

Place a 10–12 inch heavy skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) over medium heat. Add 1 tsp oil if using very lean bacon or nonstick is not trusted. Lay bacon slices in a single layer without overlapping. Cook 3–5 minutes per side, adjusting heat so bacon sizzles but does not burn, until edges are crisp and center reaches desired doneness. Flip with tongs as needed.

Drain and rest

Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Reserve 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet for cooking the eggs (pour off excess into a heatproof container). Keep bacon warm by tenting with foil.

Beat eggs

In a medium bowl crack the 4 large eggs. Add 2 tbsp whole milk, 1 tsp coarse salt (adjust to taste), and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy, about 20–30 seconds. If using chives, stir them in now.

Heat skillet

After cooking bacon, leave the skillet over medium-low heat with 1–2 tbsp of reserved bacon fat (or butter). If using butter, add 1 tbsp and let it melt, swirling to coat the pan. Reduce heat to low–medium so eggs cook gently and do not brown.

Cook scrambled eggs (soft)

Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet. Let them sit undisturbed for 10–15 seconds until edges begin to set. Use a spatula to gently push set edges toward the center, tilting the pan so uncooked egg runs to the edges. Continue gently folding and stirring every 10–15 seconds until curds form but eggs remain soft and slightly glossy, about 1–2 minutes total depending on heat. Remove from heat just before fully set; residual heat will finish cooking.

Finish and season

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer eggs to a warmed plate to avoid overcooking.

Toast bread

If serving with toast or English muffin, toast to desired color while eggs rest. Butter the toast if desired.

Plate and serve

Arrange scrambled eggs alongside the bacon. Add ketchup or hot sauce on the side if desired. Garnish eggs with additional chives if using. Serve immediately while hot.