Toast the bread: Lightly toast your bread to your preferred level. For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of butter or mayo on the outside and toast in a pan until golden.

Heat the pan: Place a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet over medium heat. Add butter or oil and let it melt and shimmer.

Crack the egg: Crack the egg into the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. If you like neat edges, crack the egg into a small bowl first, then slide it into the pan.

Cook to your liking: For runny yolk (sunny-side up), cook 2–3 minutes until whites are set. For over-easy or over-medium, gently flip and cook 20–60 seconds more. For a firm yolk, cook another minute.

Add cheese (optional): When the egg is almost done, lay a slice of cheese on top. Cover the pan for 20–30 seconds to melt.

Prep the bread: Spread mayo or your favorite sauce on one or both slices of toast. Add lettuce or tomato if using.

Assemble: Transfer the egg to the toast. Add any extra toppings—bacon, avocado, pickles, or a drizzle of hot sauce. Top with the second slice of bread.

Press and serve: Gently press the sandwich to help everything settle. Slice in half if you want and eat right away while hot.