
Few breakfasts can match the indulgence of a Copycat McDonald’s Steak Egg And Cheese Bagel fresh off your skillet. This hearty handheld started as my treat for early family road trips but has quickly become a weekend favorite thanks to its buttery bagel and melty cheese. If you are after a seriously satisfying start to your day you will not want to miss this recipe.
I still remember my first attempt at this bagel sandwich during a Sunday snow when all I could find were pantry staples and a craving for something nostalgic. Now it is a family tradition. Nothing beats the smell of sizzling shaved steak in the morning.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and perfect browning for onions and steak. Opt for a quality butter for flavor
- Small onion: The base of umami and sweetness. Choose yellow or sweet onions with firm skin
- Shaved steak: The star of the show. Ask your butcher for thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye for tenderness
- Eggs: Create fluffy texture and creamy richness. Use fresh farm eggs for bright flavor
- Montreal steak seasoning: Adds bold, peppery notes. Look for a fresh bottle with vibrant color for best aroma
- Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami depth. A quality bottled option with real anchovies provides tang
- Salt: Enhances and balances all flavors. Use kosher or fine sea salt for even seasoning
- American cheese: Delivers signature gooey melt. Grab deli sliced for classic consistency
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy sauce base. Use full fat for richness
- Mustard: Gives zing to the sauce. Smooth yellow or Dijon both work beautifully
- Dried dill: Brings a bright and herby edge to the sauce. Fresh will be extra vibrant but use a small pinch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Mix mayonnaise mustard and dill together in a small bowl until smooth. Chill in the fridge so flavors meld and the sauce thickens
- Cook the Onions:
- Melt a tablespoon of butter in your skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and salt stirring occasionally. Let onions soften and develop golden edges about eight to ten minutes. Remove the onions and set aside
- Scramble the Eggs:
- Add another tablespoon of butter to the pan. Pour in beaten eggs and cook gently. Use a spatula to pull eggs from the edges to the center forming soft folds. Divide finished eggs into two portions
- Season and Prepare the Steak:
- Place your shaved steak in a bowl. Sprinkle over Montreal steak seasoning and drizzle with Worcestershire sauce. Toss with clean hands until every bite is coated
- Cook the Steak and Onions:
- Melt the last tablespoon of butter in the skillet over medium heat. Spread shaved steak across the surface. Let it sear briefly then stir until browned yet still juicy about three to four minutes. Return the cooked onions to the steak tossing together. Separate into two mounds and lay a slice of cheese over each letting it melt from the warmth
- Toast the Bagels:
- Place split bagels cut side down on the hot skillet to brown them or use your toaster for extra crunch
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Spread a generous layer of the prepared sauce on both cut sides of each bagel. Lay half the scrambled eggs onto each bagel bottom then top with the heap of steak onion and melted cheese. Cap with the bagel top and press gently

Every time I pile those glossy onions and gooey cheese onto the steak I am reminded of my dad flipping bagels in the skillet on busy mornings. My personal favorite ingredient here has to be the Montreal steak seasoning since it unlocks so much flavor with minimal effort.
Storage Tips
Wrap your assembled bagels in foil and refrigerate for up to two days. A quick reheat in a toaster oven restores that toasted bagel crunch and gooey interior. For longer storage freeze the wrapped sandwiches and reheat directly from frozen until warmed through
Ingredient Substitutions
If shaved steak is not available thinly sliced roast beef works well in a pinch and tastes great. You can swap in Swiss cheese for a nuttier finish or use an English muffin instead of a bagel for a lighter bite. For those avoiding mayo Greek yogurt blended with a pinch of mustard makes a tangy lighter sauce
Serving Suggestions
These sandwiches taste incredible alongside hash browns or crispy breakfast potatoes. For a fresh touch serve with juicy orange slices or a simple fruit salad. A hot cup of coffee or strong cold brew is my tried and true pairing for the hearty flavors
Historical Context
Inspired by the beloved McDonald’s breakfast lineup this homemade version first hit menus in the nineties and fans still crave the classic combination. Bringing it to your kitchen means no more waiting for limited returns and you can tailor it with your favorite ingredients and sauces

One final tip I have learned is to let each component rest for a minute before assembly. This keeps bagels crisp and ensures every bite delivers that classic steak egg and cheese harmony. Enjoy making mornings extra special with this comforting classic
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes, thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye works well for a tender, juicy result in the sandwich.
- → How do I prevent the eggs from overcooking?
Cook eggs gently over medium heat, stirring just until set for a soft, fluffy texture.
- → What type of cheese can I substitute?
Provolone, cheddar, or Swiss melt nicely and can be used in place of American cheese.
- → What’s the best way to toast the bagel?
Toast bagel halves on a skillet with a little butter or use a toaster for a crisp finish.
- → Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge to save time during assembly.