Ultimate Cowboy Breakfast Sliders Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
• 8 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 (12 count) package Hawaiian rolls
• 4 tablespoons Cowboy Butter, divided (see note)
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 8 slices pepper Jack cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Line a 9x13-inch rimmed baking sheet with foil. Press the sausage to the sides of the pan, shaping it into a rectangle just larger than the size of the Hawaiian rolls.
2. Bake the sausage in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. While the sausage bakes, prepare the eggs.
3. Coat a second 9x13-inch baking dish heavily with cooking spray. Crack the eggs into the prepared pan. Use a knife to break the yolks and gently spread them out. Drizzle the cream over the eggs, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Place the egg pan in the oven on a separate rack from the sausage. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
5. Remove the eggs from the oven. Set the ovens broiler to High, then broil the sausage for about 3 minutes, or until browned on top.
6. While the sausage finishes, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise. Spread 1 tablespoon of Cowboy Butter on the bottom halves of the rolls.
7. Drain the sausage, then place the sausage patty onto the bottom halves of the rolls.
8. Carefully slide the baked eggs from the pan onto the sausage, trimming off any excess egg if needed. Sprinkle with green onions.
9. Top the eggs with slices of pepper Jack cheese, then place the top halves of the rolls on top.
10. Place the filled rolls back in the baking dish and spread the remaining Cowboy Butter on top of the rolls.
11. Bake the rolls for about 5 minutes, or until the butter is melted and the rolls are lightly browned and toasted.
12. Cut the rolls into 12 servings and serve hot.

Cook's Note

For the full recipe for Cowboy Butter, click here.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 373
• Total Fat: 26g (34% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 12g (59% DV)
• Cholesterol: 189mg (63% DV)
• Sodium: 705mg (31% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 16g (6% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 19g (37% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 219mg (17% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (13% DV)
• Potassium: 242mg (5% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Ultimate Cowboy Breakfast Sliders

The Ultimate Cowboy Breakfast Sliders are a modern twist on traditional American breakfast fare, inspired by the hearty meals eaten by cowboys in the American West. In the late 19th century, cowboys needed high-energy, portable foods to sustain them through long days on horseback. They often combined eggs, meat, and bread into simple, robust meals. Over time, this concept evolved into a convenient, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the richness of sausage, eggs, and cheese with soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls.

Regional Variations

While the sliders are enjoyed nationwide, regional adaptations highlight local ingredients. In Texas, for example, smoked sausage or chorizo may replace breakfast sausage, and jalapeos are sometimes added for a spicy kick. In the Midwest, cheddar cheese and a touch of barbecue seasoning reflect the heartlands love for bold flavors. Coastal regions may incorporate fresh herbs or even seafood variations, turning the humble slider into a versatile platform for regional tastes.

How These Sliders Differ From Similar Dishes

Unlike standard breakfast sandwiches or sliders, the Ultimate Cowboy Breakfast Sliders layer a baked egg slab with sausage and cheese inside soft Hawaiian rolls. Many breakfast sandwiches are cooked individually, while these sliders are baked as a single tray, making them ideal for feeding a crowd. The use of Hawaiian rolls adds a subtle sweetness that contrasts with the savory sausage and creamy eggs, creating a unique balance not found in ordinary breakfast sandwiches.

Where They Are Commonly Served

These sliders have become a staple at brunch buffets, weekend family breakfasts, and casual gatherings like tailgates or potlucks. Restaurants specializing in breakfast and brunch menus often feature them as a shareable item, and their portability makes them perfect for picnics or outdoor events. Because they can be baked in large batches and portioned easily, they are also popular at catered events and holiday breakfasts.

Interesting Facts

• The combination of sausage, eggs, and cheese inside a soft roll mimics the original cowboy concept of one-pan meals, which minimized cleanup on the trail.
• Hawaiian rolls, originally from Hawaii, gained popularity on the mainland in the 20th century and are prized for their sweet, pillowy texture, which contrasts beautifully with savory fillings.
• Cowboy Butter, often used in the recipe, is a rich compound butter infused with spices and herbs, reflecting the American Wests bold flavors and the tendency to enhance simple foods with rich condiments.
• These sliders can be customized easily for dietary preferences, swapping eggs for plant-based alternatives or using turkey sausage for a leaner version.
• Because of their layered design, leftovers can be stored and reheated without losing texture, making them a favorite for meal prep enthusiasts.

FAQ about Ultimate Cowboy Breakfast Sliders Recipe

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