Mastering the Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich: A Savory Morning Indulgence
Wake up your taste buds with the ultimate savory breakfast experience: the Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich. This extraordinary morning meal combines tender, smoky pork belly with fluffy scrambled eggs, a vibrant cranberry orange relish, and a delightful kick from pickled jalapeños, all nestled within a warm, flaky biscuit. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that promises to transform your breakfast routine into an indulgent ritual.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by AdapTable Meals. As always, all opinions are my own.
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About This Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich
While a sweet breakfast can certainly hit the spot, there are mornings when only a truly indulgent, savory meal will do. Especially after a season filled with festive treats, a craving for something deeply satisfying and hearty takes over. That’s precisely where this pork belly breakfast sandwich shines, delivering an experience that perfectly fulfills those savory breakfast dreams.
The undisputed hero of this breakfast creation is the Smokey Applewood Boneless Pork Belly from AdapTable Meals. I personally vouch for its exceptional quality and flavor. With this product, gourmet breakfast becomes effortless; simply bake it to unlock tender, juicy, and incredibly flavorful meat. The rich, savory notes, infused with garlic, onion, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce, create a taste explosion that will have you reaching for another bite. Its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness ensures every mouthful is pure bliss.
AdapTable Meals has consistently been my top choice for everything from quick weeknight dinners to robust breakfast options and festive holiday gatherings. Their commitment to convenience and quality is unparalleled. All of their products arrive fresh and pre-seasoned, drastically cutting down on prep time and allowing you to spend more precious moments with loved ones rather than laboring in the kitchen. What truly sets them apart is their dedication to real meat, free from artificial ingredients or preservatives, giving you peace of mind that your home-cooked meals are both delicious and wholesome.
Currently, AdapTable Meals offers their exquisite boneless pork belly for a limited time. Don’t miss out on this incredible ingredient; use their convenient store locator to find a retailer near you. They offer three tantalizing flavors: the Smokey Applewood (which I used for this very recipe), a rich Brown Sugar variant, and an aromatic Asian Five Spice. I wholeheartedly recommend adding this tender, flavorful pork belly to your holiday menu or simply enjoying it as a decadent everyday treat. It truly elevates any dish it touches!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this unforgettable breakfast sandwich requires a thoughtful selection of components that come together in perfect harmony. Here’s a detailed look at the essential ingredients:
- Pork Belly: The star of the show! You’ll need two 16oz packages of AdapTable Meals Smokey Applewood Boneless Pork Belly. The smokey applewood flavor is robust and perfectly seasoned, offering a delightful savory depth. Alternatively, their brown sugar boneless pork belly (linked above) would provide a slightly sweeter, equally delicious profile. The beauty of AdapTable Meals is that it’s ready to roast right out of the package, eliminating extensive marinating or seasoning.
- Eggs: Four large eggs are needed, one for each sandwich, ensuring a generous and satisfying portion. High-quality eggs will yield a richer flavor and color.
- Heavy Cream: This is a secret weapon for achieving truly soft, luscious, and restaurant-quality scrambled eggs. The fat content in the cream prevents the eggs from becoming rubbery and adds an incredible richness. If heavy cream isn’t available, whole milk can be used, though the texture might be slightly less decadent.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the overall saltiness of the dish. It’s essential for cooking the eggs, preventing sticking, and adding a subtle, creamy flavor.
- Biscuits: The foundation of our sandwich! Whether you prefer the charm of homemade buttermilk biscuits or the convenience of store-bought, ensure they are sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings while remaining tender and flaky.
- Cranberries: For the vibrant cranberry orange relish, fresh cranberries are highly recommended for their bright, tart flavor and beautiful color. If fresh aren’t in season, frozen cranberries can be used; just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to the relish.
- Orange: Both the zest and juice of an orange are crucial for the relish. The zest provides intense aromatic oils and bright citrus notes, while the juice adds a tangy sweetness that complements the cranberries and cuts through the richness of the pork belly.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is used in the relish to balance the tartness of the cranberries, creating a perfectly sweet-tart counterpoint to the savory elements of the sandwich.
- Pickled Jalapeños: An optional but highly recommended addition! These provide a welcome tangy crunch and a subtle heat that beautifully contrasts the rich pork belly and sweet relish, elevating the flavor profile significantly.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple but vital seasonings to enhance the flavors of the eggs and to adjust to your personal preference throughout the cooking process.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
You don’t need a professional chef’s kitchen to create this gourmet breakfast sandwich. The necessary tools are common household items, ensuring that this indulgent meal is accessible to everyone.
- Baking Rack and Rimmed Half Sheet Baking Pan: This combination is crucial for cooking the pork belly. The baking rack allows air to circulate around the pork, promoting even cooking and helping excess fat drip away, which results in a perfectly tender and slightly crispy exterior. The rimmed pan catches all the drippings, making cleanup a breeze.
- Saucepan and Wooden Spoon: A small to medium-sized saucepan is ideal for simmering the cranberry orange relish. A wooden spoon is excellent for stirring the relish as it cooks, helping to break down the cranberries and prevent sticking, ensuring a smooth and flavorful condiment.
- Nonstick Skillet: The key to achieving those coveted soft and fluffy scrambled eggs. A good quality nonstick skillet prevents the eggs from sticking and allows for gentle cooking, crucial for their delicate texture.
- Mixing Bowls: A set of stainless steel mixing bowls will come in handy for preparing your eggs and for mixing the relish ingredients.
- Whisk: A French wire whisk or similar will be perfect for beating the eggs and cream until light and airy.
- Meat Thermometer: While not strictly a “must-have” if you’re experienced, a meat thermometer is highly recommended for accurately checking the internal temperature of the pork belly, guaranteeing it’s cooked to perfection and safe to eat.
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich
Creating this gourmet breakfast sandwich is simpler than you might think. By breaking down the process into a few key components, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in your own kitchen.
Perfecting the Pork Belly
The secret to incredibly tender and juicy pork belly lies in slow roasting. Begin by preheating your oven to 300˚F (150˚C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup, then place a wire baking rack inside it. Arrange the AdapTable Meals pork belly pieces on the rack in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping, which allows for even cooking and slight crisping. Roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 200˚F to 210˚F (93˚C to 99˚C) is reached when a meat thermometer is inserted into the thickest part. This low and slow method renders the fat beautifully and ensures the meat is supremely tender. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing; this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor and moisture.
Crafting the Cranberry Orange Relish
While the pork belly roasts, prepare the bright and tangy cranberry orange relish. In a small saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, and granulated sugar. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon. The cranberries will begin to burst, releasing their juices, and the mixture will thicken as the sugar dissolves and cooks down. This process usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Once the cranberries are softened and the relish has reached a jam-like consistency, remove it from the heat. Stir well to ensure everything is fully incorporated, then set it aside to cool slightly. As it cools, the relish will thicken further, making it perfect for spreading.
Scrambling Silky Eggs
For truly soft and creamy scrambled eggs, start by whisking the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper vigorously in a small bowl until well combined and slightly frothy. This incorporates air, leading to a lighter texture. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and melt the unsalted butter until it coats the pan and just begins to foam. Pour the egg mixture into the center of the pan. As the edges begin to set, remove the pan from the heat for about 20 seconds while continuously stirring. This helps prevent overcooking. Return the pan to the heat and continue to stir, gently scraping the bottom and sides, pushing the eggs back and forth for about 90 seconds. Repeat this process of removing and returning to heat until the eggs are soft, creamy, and still shimmer with a hint of moisture, but are no longer runny. Avoid browning them, as this can make them rubbery. The goal is a delicate, custard-like consistency.
Assembling Your Masterpiece
With all your components prepared, it’s time to assemble these magnificent breakfast sandwiches. Carefully slice each biscuit in half horizontally. Spread a generous layer of the cranberry orange relish onto the bottom half of each biscuit. Next, place two succulent pieces of the roasted pork belly on top of the relish. Follow with a fluffy portion of the soft scrambled eggs. If you desire an extra burst of flavor, add a little more relish, and then scatter a few pickled jalapeños over the eggs for that perfect tangy, spicy crunch. Finally, crown your creation with the top half of the biscuit. Serve immediately and prepare for an extraordinary breakfast experience that is both sophisticated and deeply satisfying.
Tips for a Flawless Breakfast Sandwich
To ensure your Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich is nothing short of perfection, consider these additional tips and variations:
- Biscuit Alternatives: While biscuits provide a classic touch, feel free to experiment with other bread options! Hearty English muffins, soft brioche buns, or even toasted sourdough can offer a delightful change in texture and flavor. Each choice will bring its own unique character to the sandwich.
- Adjusting the Recipe Size: This recipe is designed to serve four, making it perfect for a small family breakfast or brunch. However, it’s incredibly easy to scale up or down. If you’re cooking for just yourself or two, simply halve all the ingredient quantities. For a larger gathering, double or even triple the recipe as needed. The cooking methods remain the same, just adjust pan sizes accordingly.
- Using Traditional Pork Belly: If AdapTable Meals isn’t available or you prefer to prepare your pork belly from scratch, you can absolutely do so! Look for a boneless, skin-on pork belly slab. Score the skin, season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, then roast low and slow. To infuse even more flavor, consider marinating it overnight in our Asian pork belly marinade for a unique twist. You’ll likely need a longer cooking time, potentially 2-3 hours, depending on thickness.
- Enhance with Sauce: Don’t hesitate to personalize your sandwich with an extra drizzle of your favorite sauce. A smoky and spicy chipotle lime sauce would be fantastic, adding another layer of complexity. Other great options include sriracha mayo, a touch of hot honey, or even a classic tangy barbecue sauce for extra depth.
- Crispy Pork Belly Option: For those who love extra crunch, after the pork belly is roasted and tender, you can increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10-15 minutes, or even finish it under the broiler for a few minutes (watching carefully!) to achieve a beautifully crispy exterior.
- Relish Sweetness Adjustment: The cranberry orange relish offers a lovely sweet-tart balance. If you prefer it sweeter, add an extra tablespoon of sugar while cooking. If you like it more tart, reduce the sugar slightly.
Choosing the Best Biscuits
The biscuit is more than just a vessel for our delicious fillings; it’s an integral part of the Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich experience. Its texture and flavor profoundly influence the overall enjoyment.
For this recipe, my personal preference leans towards a classic, flaky buttermilk biscuit. The light, airy interior and slightly crisp exterior provide the perfect contrast to the rich pork belly and creamy eggs. Its subtle tanginess also beautifully complements the sweet-tart cranberry orange relish.
However, the beauty of a breakfast sandwich lies in its adaptability! If you’re feeling adventurous and want to introduce another layer of flavor and a touch of heat, consider using jalapeño cheddar biscuits. The savory cheese and mild spice would be an absolutely delicious pairing with the smoky pork belly, adding a Tex-Mex inspired twist to your morning meal. Other fantastic options include:
- Sweet Potato Biscuits: These would add a touch of sweetness and earthiness, complementing the applewood smoke.
- Herb Biscuits (e.g., Chive or Rosemary): Savory herbs can elevate the biscuit flavor, pairing wonderfully with the pork and eggs.
- Drop Biscuits: For a less structured, more rustic feel, drop biscuits are quick and easy, offering a tender crumb.
Ultimately, whether you opt for homemade for that unparalleled fresh taste and texture, or a high-quality store-bought option for convenience, choose biscuits that you genuinely enjoy. Just ensure they are substantial enough to hold all the indulgent fillings without falling apart, promising a satisfying bite every time.
Can You Prepare This Sandwich in Advance?
Mornings can be hectic, and the idea of preparing a gourmet breakfast sandwich from start to finish might seem daunting. The good news is that this recipe is incredibly adaptable for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade breakfast with minimal fuss when you’re pressed for time.
You can certainly make several components of this sandwich ahead of time, up to 2-3 days in advance, without compromising on flavor or quality. This strategy is a game-changer for busy individuals or for hosting brunch:
- Pork Belly: The roasted pork belly is perfect for making ahead. Once cooked and cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to assemble, you can gently reheat the pork belly in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F / 150°C) until warmed through, or even quickly crisp it in an air fryer for a few minutes. This ensures it retains its tenderness and flavor.
- Biscuits: Both homemade and store-bought biscuits can be prepared ahead. Freshly baked biscuits are best on the day of, but you can bake them the day before and store them at room temperature in an airtight container. Reheat them briefly in the oven or toaster oven to restore their warmth and crispness before assembling. Alternatively, you can prepare biscuit dough in advance and bake them fresh in the morning.
- Cranberry Orange Relish: This condiment actually benefits from being made ahead! The flavors of the cranberries and orange will meld and deepen over time. Store the relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can be served chilled or gently warmed before spreading onto the biscuits.
- Scrambled Eggs: While some elements hold well, scrambled eggs are truly best enjoyed fresh. Their delicate, soft texture is at its peak right off the skillet. Reheated scrambled eggs can sometimes become rubbery or dry. Therefore, I highly recommend preparing the eggs just before you plan to assemble and serve the sandwiches for the best possible experience.
By preparing the pork belly, biscuits, and relish ahead of time, you can drastically cut down on morning prep. Then, simply whip up a batch of fresh scrambled eggs and assemble your incredible breakfast sandwiches in minutes!
Need some more inspiration for breakfast? Explore my diverse breakfast recipes page for endless delicious ideas!
What to Serve Alongside Your Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich
This Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich is a complete meal in itself, bursting with savory flavors, creamy textures, and a tangy kick. If you’re looking for a simple morning, a freshly brewed mug of coffee is truly all you need to accompany this hearty masterpiece. The rich, robust flavor of coffee provides the perfect balance to the indulgent sandwich.
However, if you’re hosting a leisurely brunch or simply want to elevate your breakfast experience, there are many delightful additions that pair wonderfully:
- Potato Sides:
- Classic Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy roasted or pan-fried potatoes seasoned with herbs are a fantastic savory complement. You might love these roasted bacon breakfast potatoes for an extra savory kick.
- Sweet Potato Breakfast Potatoes: For a slightly sweeter and healthier alternative, these easy sweet potato breakfast potatoes offer a different dimension of flavor.
- Crispy Hash Browns: A diner classic, perfectly golden and crispy hash browns provide a satisfying crunch that everyone loves.
- For Brunch Gatherings: If you’re serving a crowd, consider adding some lighter or sweeter options to balance the richness of the sandwich:
- Sweet Treats: Offer something like a light and fruity blueberry lemon streusel coffee cake or a decadent blueberry cream cheese French toast casserole. These provide a lovely contrast and ensure there’s something for every palate.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A simple bowl of seasonal fresh fruit adds freshness and a natural sweetness, cleansing the palate between bites of the rich sandwich.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layers of creamy yogurt, granola, and fresh berries offer a lighter, refreshing option.
- Other Savory Options: Expand your breakfast sandwich repertoire with these cheesy BBQ breakfast sliders, which offer a different, equally delicious savory experience perfect for sharing.
No matter what you choose, this Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich is guaranteed to be the star of your morning spread!
Love all things pork? This incredibly easy pulled pork burger is a must-make, especially with the help of an Instant Pot for effortless preparation!
If you embark on the culinary journey of making this pork belly breakfast sandwich recipe, please take a moment to give it a rating or leave a comment below! Your feedback is invaluable, and I genuinely love hearing about your experiences and seeing these recipes come to life in your homes. Don’t hesitate to drop any questions you might have; I make every effort to respond to each comment personally.
And for those who love to share their creations, be sure to tag me on Instagram! There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your beautiful photos of the recipes you’ve made. It truly means the world to me and inspires me to continue sharing delicious ideas with all of you!
Pork Belly Breakfast Sandwich
15 minutes
1 hour 35 minutes
1 hour 50 minutes
4 sandwiches
equipment
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Oven Safe Baking Rack
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Half Sheet Pan
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French Wire Whisk
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Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
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Nonstick 12-Inch Skillet
ingredients
- 2 16oz AdapTable Meals Smokey Applewood Boneless Pork Belly
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 buttermilk biscuits homemade or store-bought
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños sliced, for serving
- 6 oz fresh cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- Juice of 1/2 orange
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
instructions
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Preheat the oven to 300˚F (150˚C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a baking rack on top.
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Arrange the pork belly strips on the prepared rack in a single layer, ensuring no pieces are overlapping.
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Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 200˚F to 210˚F (93˚C to 99˚C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
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Remove the pork belly from the oven and let it rest for 3 minutes before proceeding.
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While the pork belly is roasting, prepare the cranberry orange relish. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and soften, and the mixture thickens, about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir well and remove from heat. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Once the pork belly is done and resting, prepare the eggs. In a small bowl, beat together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Melt the unsalted butter in a small nonstick pan over medium-low heat, ensuring it coats the entire pan and just starts to foam.
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Pour the egg mixture into the center of the pan and immediately reduce the heat to low.
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Once the edges begin to set, remove the pan from the heat and stir for 20 seconds. Return the pan to the heat and continue to stir, gently scraping the bottom and sides for another 90 seconds. Repeat this process of removing from heat and returning until the eggs are soft, creamy, and still shimmer with some moisture, but are not runny. Avoid overcooking.
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To assemble the sandwiches, slice each biscuit in half horizontally. Spread the bottom half with a generous amount of cranberry orange relish. Layer two pieces of the roasted pork belly on top, followed by a portion of the scrambled eggs. Add additional relish and pickled jalapeños as desired. Place the top half of the biscuit on top. Repeat with the remaining biscuits and ingredients. Serve immediately and enjoy!
notes
nutrition
Carbohydrates: 46g |
Protein: 19g |
Fat: 77g |
Saturated Fat: 29g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 34g |
Trans Fat: 0.1g |
Cholesterol: 270mg |
Sodium: 788mg |
Potassium: 443mg |
Fiber: 2g |
Sugar: 30g |
Vitamin A: 899IU |
Vitamin C: 15mg |
Calcium: 64mg |
Iron: 3mg
American
Breakfast