Full English Breakfast (Traditional English Fry-Up)
Looking for the best Full English Breakfast recipe? This iconic British breakfast, also known as an English Fry-Up, is loaded with crispy back bacon, juicy pork sausages, fried eggs, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, black pudding, and buttery toast. It’s a hearty, protein-rich breakfast that’s perfect for weekends, brunch, or whenever you crave a classic taste of Britain.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Authentic British breakfast
High in protein and incredibly satisfying
Ready in about 40 minutes
Perfect for brunch or family breakfasts
Easy to customize with your favorite sides
A complete meal on one plate
⏱️ Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 860 kcal per serving
🛒 Ingredients
Main Components
8 pork sausages
8 slices British back bacon
4 large eggs
1 can (14 oz / 400 g) baked beans
8 button mushrooms, halved
2 large tomatoes, halved
8 slices black pudding (optional but traditional)
8 slices thick white or wholemeal bread
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Seasonings
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional Extras
Hash browns
Fried bread
Bubble and squeak
HP brown sauce
Tomato ketchup
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausages
Heat a large frying pan over medium heat.
Cook the sausages for 15–18 minutes, turning regularly until evenly browned and fully cooked.
Transfer to a warm plate.
Step 2: Fry the Bacon
Using the same pan, cook the bacon for 4–5 minutes, turning once until lightly crisp but still tender.
Remove and keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Black Pudding
If using, fry the black pudding slices for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly crisp.
Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms & Tomatoes
Add a little butter to the pan.
Cook the mushrooms for about 5 minutes until golden.
Place the tomatoes cut-side down and cook for 3–4 minutes, then turn briefly.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Heat the Beans
Warm the baked beans gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Fry the Eggs
Heat a little oil or butter in a separate skillet.
Crack in the eggs and fry until the whites are set while keeping the yolks runny, or cook to your preferred doneness.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 7: Toast the Bread
Toast the bread until golden.
Butter generously while still hot.
Step 8: Assemble
Arrange on each plate:
2 pork sausages
2 slices back bacon
1 fried egg
Baked beans
Grilled tomato
Sautéed mushrooms
2 slices black pudding (optional)
Buttered toast
Serve immediately with HP brown sauce or tomato ketchup and a hot cup of English breakfast tea.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair your Full English Breakfast with:
Hash browns
Fried bread
Bubble and squeak
Fresh orange juice
English breakfast tea
Freshly brewed coffee
💡 Chef’s Tips
Cook the sausages first because they take the longest.
Use British-style back bacon for the most authentic flavor.
Keep cooked ingredients warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while finishing the remaining items.
Avoid overcrowding the frying pan to ensure everything browns properly.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm the sausages, bacon, beans, mushrooms, and tomatoes in a skillet or microwave. Cook fresh eggs and toast just before serving for the best taste and texture.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 860 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Carbohydrates: 39 g
Fat: 60 g
Saturated Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 9 g
Sodium: 1,520 mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is a traditional Full English Breakfast?
A traditional Full English Breakfast includes pork sausages, back bacon, fried eggs, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, buttered toast, and often black pudding.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute vegetarian sausages, plant-based bacon, grilled halloumi, or extra mushrooms and tomatoes, and omit the black pudding.
What is black pudding?
Black pudding is a traditional British blood sausage made with pork blood, oats, and seasonings. It’s optional but commonly served in a traditional Full English Breakfast.
What drinks go best with a Full English Breakfast?
English breakfast tea is the classic choice, while coffee, orange juice, or apple juice are also excellent options.
