What to have with eggs instead of bacon?

According to a 2024 survey, many consumers are seeking more varied breakfast options beyond the traditional meat-heavy plate. If you're wondering what to have with eggs instead of bacon, this guide explores creative and healthier options to revitalize your morning routine.

Quick Summary

Explore delicious and creative substitutes for bacon to pair with eggs, from savory meat alternatives to diverse plant-based options and fresh vegetable sides.

Key Points

• Variety of Options: You can substitute bacon with numerous savory meat, plant-based, and vegetable-based alternatives for a more exciting breakfast.

• Healthier Swaps: Lean meats like turkey bacon or nutrient-dense choices like avocado and sautéed greens offer a less fatty, more wholesome pairing.

• Plant-Based Innovations: Tofu, tempeh, mushrooms, and even carrots can be seasoned and prepared to mimic the smoky, crispy texture of bacon.

• Creative Flavor Combinations: Ingredients like pesto, smoked salmon, or cheesy grits introduce sophisticated and unexpected flavors that complement eggs beautifully.

• Balanced Breakfast Plate: Combine a varied protein with vegetables, healthy fats, and a starchy side for a well-rounded and satisfying morning meal.

• Easy Preparation: Many alternatives, from quick-cooking turkey bacon to pre-marinated tofu, can be prepared with minimal effort for a busy morning.

Beyond the Classic Breakfast Plate

While bacon has long been the classic partner for eggs, many are looking for new flavors, healthier choices, or plant-based alternatives. The good news is that the culinary world offers a wide array of delicious options that pair beautifully with eggs, ensuring your breakfast never gets boring.

Savory Meat Alternatives

For those who still want a meaty protein but prefer a different flavor profile or a healthier cut, these options are perfect:

• Turkey Bacon: Made from finely chopped or ground turkey meat, this is a leaner choice with less saturated fat than traditional pork bacon. It still offers a savory flavor and can be made crispy in a skillet or oven.
• Chicken Sausage: Available in a variety of pre-seasoned flavors, from spicy to sweet, chicken sausage adds a juicy and flavorful protein boost to your egg dish.
• Prosciutto: For a more gourmet twist, thinly sliced Italian prosciutto can be crisped up in a pan to create a delicate, salty complement to your eggs. It contains significantly less saturated fat than bacon.
• Beef Tapa or Brisket: Drawing inspiration from other cuisines, options like Filipino beef tapa or leftover smoked brisket can provide a rich, savory, and satisfying flavor profile that rivals bacon.

Creative Plant-Based Substitutes

Plant-based eating has opened up a world of inventive ways to achieve a smoky, savory, or crunchy element without any meat:

• Tofu or Tempeh "Bakon": Sliced and marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, liquid smoke, and maple syrup, extra-firm tofu or tempeh can be pan-fried until golden and crispy. This alternative absorbs flavors incredibly well.
• Mushroom "Bacon": Portobello or shiitake mushrooms, when sliced thinly and marinated in a similar smoky sauce, can be fried to achieve a savory, umami-rich texture reminiscent of bacon.
• Carrot "Bacon": A surprisingly popular vegan option, thinly sliced carrots marinated and baked or air-fried with spices like smoked paprika can mimic bacon's smoky flavor and crunch.
• Coconut "Bacon": Large, flaked coconut pieces, baked with smoky and savory seasonings, offer a delightful crunch and meaty flavor profile.

Fresh and Flavorful Vegetable Sides

Don't underestimate the power of fresh produce to elevate your eggs. Vegetables add nutrients, fiber, and vibrant flavors to your plate.

• Avocado: Creamy and rich in heart-healthy fats, sliced or mashed avocado on toast with eggs is a modern classic. The contrast in textures is a delicious combination.
• Sautéed Greens: Wilted spinach or kale, cooked with a little garlic and olive oil, adds a dose of vitamins and pairs perfectly with a fried egg.
• Roasted Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes: Diced and roasted with herbs, these add a substantial, starchy element that is both filling and comforting.
• Tomato and Feta: Baked eggs in a tomato and feta sauce is a fantastic, savory brunch or lunch option that is both rustic and flavorful.

Other Unexpected Pairings

For those who love to experiment, consider these imaginative combinations:

• Smoked Salmon: For a truly indulgent breakfast, smoked salmon paired with scrambled eggs, cream cheese, and chives offers a rich and sophisticated flavor.
• Hummus: A dollop of hummus mixed into scrambled eggs, or served on the side, provides a creamy texture and an extra layer of protein.
• Cheesy Grits: Creamy, cheesy grits are a southern classic that makes an incredibly satisfying base for scrambled or fried eggs.
• Pesto: A vibrant and herby dollop of pesto can be served on hard-boiled or scrambled eggs to add a burst of fresh flavor. Pesto on eggs is a beautifully simple idea from Simply Sated that you can try at home.

Comparison of Popular Bacon Alternatives

Alternative	Flavor Profile	Texture	Nutritional Benefit	Pairs Best With
Turkey Bacon	Mildly smoky, savory	Chewy, can be made crispy	Lower in fat, higher in protein	Scrambled eggs, breakfast sandwiches
Tofu "Bakon"	Savory, smoky, salty (flavor-absorbent)	Firm, crispy when fried	High in protein, low in saturated fat	Scrambled tofu, vegan egg substitutes
Avocado	Creamy, rich, earthy	Soft, smooth	Healthy monounsaturated fats	Fried eggs, avocado toast
Sautéed Mushrooms	Umami-rich, savory	Meaty, soft	Fiber, vitamins, minerals	Omelets, frittatas
Prosciutto	Salty, melt-in-your-mouth	Delicate, can be crispy	Less saturated fat than bacon	Poached eggs, gourmet breakfasts

How to Build a Better Breakfast Plate

1. Start with the base: Choose your eggs (scrambled, fried, poached, etc.).
2. Select your protein: Pick a meat or plant-based alternative from the options above. Consider marinating plant-based proteins in advance for maximum flavor.
3. Add a fresh element: Incorporate a colorful vegetable side, like sautéed spinach, roasted potatoes, or fresh avocado.
4. Introduce a unique texture or flavor: A sprinkle of feta, a dollop of pesto, or a side of cheesy grits can add a new dimension to your meal.
5. Finish with garnishes: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or a drizzle of hot sauce can complete the dish.

Conclusion: The Final Egg-cellent Pairing

Exploring what to have with eggs instead of bacon reveals a world of culinary possibilities that can be healthier, more flavorful, and more exciting than the traditional pairing. From savory turkey bacon and prosciutto to the smoky, crispy plant-based options like tofu and mushrooms, there is a substitute for every craving. The addition of fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, or tangy sauces proves that a delicious and satisfying breakfast can be achieved with variety. By mixing and matching these different components, you can craft a personalized morning meal that is anything but boring.

Try Simply Sated's Pesto on Eggs recipe

Conclusion: The Final Egg-cellent Pairing

Exploring what to have with eggs instead of bacon reveals a world of culinary possibilities that can be healthier, more flavorful, and more exciting than the traditional pairing. From savory turkey bacon and prosciutto to the smoky, crispy plant-based options like tofu and mushrooms, there is a substitute for every craving. The addition of fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, or tangy sauces proves that a delicious and satisfying breakfast can be achieved with variety. By mixing and matching these different components, you can craft a personalized morning meal that is anything but boring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good healthy alternative to bacon with eggs?

For a healthy alternative, consider pairing your eggs with sliced avocado, sautéed spinach or kale, or lean turkey bacon, which offers a lower fat option.

How can I get a crunchy element with my eggs without using bacon?

You can get a satisfying crunch by air-frying or baking thinly sliced sweet potatoes or carrots until crispy. Plant-based options like fried tofu "bakon" or coconut flakes also add a great crunchy texture.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives to bacon that mimic the flavor?

Yes, many vegetarian options can mimic bacon's smoky and savory flavor. Try marinating thinly sliced tofu or mushrooms in a mixture with liquid smoke and soy sauce before frying.

Can I use smoked salmon with eggs?

Yes, smoked salmon is a fantastic, gourmet pairing for eggs, especially scrambled or poached eggs. The rich, salty flavor of the salmon works beautifully with the creamy texture of the eggs.

What are some quick, non-meat side dish ideas for eggs?

Quick, non-meat side dishes include avocado toast, a side of creamy hummus, or a simple sauté of cherry tomatoes and garlic. A fruit salad is also a quick and fresh option.

How can I make my breakfast more flavorful without relying on bacon?

Enhance flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like chives or parsley, adding a dash of smoked paprika, or serving your eggs with a flavorful sauce like pesto or hot sauce.

What is a satisfying and filling side dish for eggs without meat?

Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes are a hearty and filling side dish that adds a substantial element to your meal. Cheesy grits also provide a creamy and satisfying base.