Ultimate Guide to Elevating Your Costco Kirkland Breakfast Sandwich: Recipes & Hacks

Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwiches from Costco offer a convenient and affordable breakfast option. These sandwiches, typically featuring a sausage patty, egg, and cheese on an English muffin, are perfect for busy mornings. However, sometimes you might crave a little something extra. This guide provides various recipes and hacks to transform your Kirkland breakfast sandwich into a gourmet experience.

## Why Upgrade Your Costco Breakfast Sandwich?

While the standard Kirkland breakfast sandwich is decent, it lacks the customization and flavor depth that many people desire. Upgrading your sandwich allows you to:

* **Personalize flavors:** Tailor the sandwich to your specific taste preferences.
* **Increase nutritional value:** Add ingredients that boost the vitamin and mineral content.
* **Combat boredom:** Prevent breakfast monotony by experimenting with new ingredients.
* **Create a more satisfying meal:** Enhance the sandwich to keep you fuller for longer.
* **Impress guests:** Serve elevated breakfast sandwiches for brunch or casual gatherings.

## Essential Tools and Ingredients

Before diving into specific recipes, gather the necessary tools and pantry staples:

**Tools:**

* **Microwave or Toaster Oven:** For reheating the original sandwich.
* **Frying Pan or Skillet:** For cooking additional ingredients.
* **Cutting Board:** For prepping vegetables and meats.
* **Knife:** For slicing and dicing.
* **Spatula:** For flipping and moving ingredients.
* **Tongs (Optional):** For easy handling of hot ingredients.
* **Meat Thermometer (Optional):** To ensure meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

**Pantry Staples:**

* **Olive Oil or Cooking Spray:** For preventing sticking in the pan.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Essential for seasoning.
* **Garlic Powder and Onion Powder:** Adds depth of flavor.
* **Red Pepper Flakes (Optional):** For a touch of heat.
* **Your Favorite Sauces:** Ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, mayo, etc.

## Basic Reheating Instructions

Before adding any enhancements, you’ll need to reheat the Kirkland breakfast sandwich. Here are the recommended methods:

**Microwave:**

1. Remove the sandwich from its packaging.
2. Wrap the sandwich in a damp paper towel.
3. Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave’s power.
4. Let it cool slightly before unwrapping and enjoying.

**Toaster Oven:**

1. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the sandwich from its packaging.
3. Separate the English muffin halves.
4. Place the muffin halves, sausage patty, egg, and cheese on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until heated through and the muffin is toasted.
6. Reassemble the sandwich and enjoy.

## Recipe Ideas and Customization Options

Now for the fun part! Here are several recipe ideas to elevate your Costco breakfast sandwich. Each recipe builds upon the basic reheated sandwich. Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your own unique combinations.

### 1. The Spicy Southwestern

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 1/4 avocado, sliced
* 2 tablespoons salsa (your favorite heat level)
* 1 tablespoon pickled jalapenos, chopped (optional)
* A sprinkle of cotija cheese or shredded cheddar cheese
* Hot sauce (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. Open the sandwich and spread salsa on the top muffin half.
3. Arrange avocado slices on the bottom muffin half, on top of the sausage patty.
4. Sprinkle with chopped jalapenos (if using) and cheese.
5. Reassemble the sandwich.
6. Drizzle with hot sauce (if using) and enjoy.

**Why it works:** The avocado adds creaminess, the salsa provides a tangy and spicy kick, and the jalapenos offer extra heat. The cheese complements the other flavors and adds a salty note.

### 2. The Mediterranean Delight

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 1/4 cup spinach, lightly sautéed
* 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* 1 tablespoon feta cheese, crumbled
* A drizzle of balsamic glaze (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. Open the sandwich and layer the sautéed spinach on the bottom muffin half, on top of the sausage patty.
3. Sprinkle with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese.
4. Reassemble the sandwich.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (if using) and enjoy.

**Why it works:** The spinach adds a healthy dose of greens, the sun-dried tomatoes provide a sweet and tangy flavor, and the feta cheese offers a salty and creamy element. The balsamic glaze enhances the overall sweetness and adds a touch of sophistication.

### 3. The Italian Stallion

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 2 slices pepperoni or salami
* 1 tablespoon marinara sauce
* 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
* A sprinkle of Italian seasoning

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. Open the sandwich and spread marinara sauce on the top muffin half.
3. Layer the pepperoni or salami on the bottom muffin half, on top of the sausage patty.
4. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning.
5. Reassemble the sandwich.
6. If desired, you can microwave the assembled sandwich for a few seconds to melt the cheese further.
7. Enjoy.

**Why it works:** The pepperoni or salami adds a salty and savory flavor, the marinara sauce provides a tangy and herby element, and the mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey and satisfying experience. The Italian seasoning enhances the overall Italian flavor profile.

### 4. The Deluxe Breakfast

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 1 slice bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1/4 avocado, mashed
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. Open the sandwich and spread the mashed avocado on the top muffin half.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on the bottom muffin half, on top of the sausage patty.
4. Reassemble the sandwich.
5. Drizzle with maple syrup (if using) and enjoy.

**Why it works:** The bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor, the avocado provides creaminess and healthy fats, and the maple syrup (optional) offers a touch of sweetness, creating a balanced and indulgent breakfast experience.

### 5. The Veggie Lover’s Delight

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 1/4 cup mixed bell peppers, diced and sautéed
* 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced and sautéed
* 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
* A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. Open the sandwich and spread the softened cream cheese on the top muffin half.
3. Layer the sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms on the bottom muffin half, on top of the sausage patty.
4. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
5. Reassemble the sandwich.
6. Enjoy.

**Why it works:** The sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms add a savory and earthy flavor, the cream cheese provides a creamy and tangy element, and the everything bagel seasoning enhances the overall flavor with its blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt.

### 6. The Egg-cellent Addition (Adding Another Egg)

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 1 egg
* A pat of butter
* Salt and Pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. While the sandwich is reheating, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Crack the egg into the skillet and cook to your desired doneness (sunny-side up, over easy, over medium, over hard, scrambled).
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Open the reheated sandwich and place the cooked egg on top of the original egg.
6. Reassemble the sandwich and enjoy.

**Why it works:** Adding an extra egg boosts the protein content and creates a richer, more satisfying breakfast. You can customize the egg’s doneness to your liking.

### 7. The Breakfast Burger Mashup

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 1/4 pound ground beef
* Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayo)
* Salt and Pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. While the sandwich is reheating, form the ground beef into a patty and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the burger patty in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.
4. Open the reheated sandwich and remove the sausage patty.
5. Place the cooked burger patty on the bottom muffin half.
6. Add your favorite burger toppings.
7. Reassemble the sandwich and enjoy.

**Why it works:** This is a fun and unexpected mashup that combines the flavors of a breakfast sandwich and a burger. It’s perfect for those who crave a hearty and flavorful meal.

### 8. The Sweet and Savory Surprise

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 2 tablespoons apple butter
* 2 slices cooked ham or Canadian bacon
* A sprinkle of cinnamon

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. Open the sandwich and spread apple butter on the top muffin half.
3. Layer the cooked ham or Canadian bacon on the bottom muffin half, on top of the sausage patty.
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
5. Reassemble the sandwich and enjoy.

**Why it works:** The apple butter adds a sweet and fruity flavor, the ham or Canadian bacon provides a salty and savory element, and the cinnamon enhances the overall warmth and sweetness of the sandwich. This is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

### 9. The Protein Powerhouse

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 1/4 cup cooked black beans
* 2 tablespoons cottage cheese
* A sprinkle of chili powder

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. Open the sandwich and spread the cottage cheese on the top muffin half.
3. Layer the cooked black beans on the bottom muffin half, on top of the sausage patty.
4. Sprinkle with chili powder.
5. Reassemble the sandwich and enjoy.

**Why it works:** This recipe is packed with protein from the sausage patty, black beans, and cottage cheese. The black beans add fiber and a slightly earthy flavor, while the cottage cheese provides a creamy and tangy element. The chili powder adds a touch of warmth and spice.

### 10. The Breakfast Pizza

**Ingredients:**

* 1 Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich
* 1/4 cup pizza sauce
* 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, onions)
* Italian seasoning

**Instructions:**

1. Reheat the breakfast sandwich according to your preferred method.
2. Separate the English muffin halves.
3. Spread pizza sauce on each muffin half.
4. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and your favorite pizza toppings.
5. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
6. Place the muffin halves under a broiler or in a toaster oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Enjoy.

**Why it works:** Transforms the breakfast sandwich into a mini pizza. The familiar flavors of pizza make it a comforting and satisfying breakfast.

## Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Upgraded Sandwich

* **Don’t Overcrowd:** Adding too many ingredients can make the sandwich difficult to eat and may overwhelm the original flavors. Choose a few key ingredients that complement each other.
* **Consider Texture:** Think about the textures of the ingredients you’re adding. A combination of creamy, crunchy, and soft textures can create a more enjoyable eating experience.
* **Seasoning is Key:** Don’t forget to season your added ingredients with salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance their flavor.
* **Don’t be Afraid to Experiment:** The best way to find your favorite upgraded breakfast sandwich is to experiment with different ingredients and combinations. Get creative and have fun!
* **Prep Ahead:** If you’re short on time in the morning, you can prep some of the ingredients the night before, such as chopping vegetables or cooking bacon.
* **Adjust to Dietary Needs:** These recipes can easily be adapted to accommodate dietary restrictions. For example, you can use gluten-free English muffins, dairy-free cheese, or vegetarian sausage patties.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will always result in a better-tasting sandwich.

## Beyond the Basics: Sauces, Spreads, and Condiments

The right sauce, spread, or condiment can take your upgraded breakfast sandwich to the next level. Here are some ideas:

* **Hot Sauce:** Adds heat and flavor (consider varieties like sriracha, Tabasco, or Cholula).
* **Mustard:** Yellow, Dijon, or spicy brown mustard can add a tangy kick.
* **Mayonnaise:** Adds creaminess and richness (consider flavored mayonnaises like garlic aioli or chipotle mayo).
* **Ketchup:** A classic condiment that adds sweetness and tang.
* **Pesto:** Adds a vibrant and herbaceous flavor.
* **Hummus:** A healthy and flavorful spread made from chickpeas.
* **Guacamole:** Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
* **Chutney:** Adds sweetness, tanginess, and spice.
* **Aioli:** Garlic mayonnaise
* **Sriracha Mayo:** A spicy and creamy combination.

## Making it a Meal

While the upgraded Kirkland breakfast sandwich is delicious on its own, you can easily make it a complete meal by adding a side dish. Here are some ideas:

* **Fresh Fruit:** A healthy and refreshing option.
* **Yogurt:** A good source of protein and probiotics.
* **Granola:** Adds crunch and fiber.
* **Hash Browns:** A classic breakfast side dish.
* **Toast or English Muffin:** For extra carbs.
* **Smoothie:** A quick and easy way to get your fruits and vegetables.
* **Coffee or Tea:** The perfect beverage to start your day.

## Conclusion

The Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwich from Costco is a convenient and affordable starting point for a delicious and customized breakfast. By following these recipes and hacks, you can transform a simple sandwich into a gourmet experience that caters to your individual taste preferences and dietary needs. So, get creative, experiment with different ingredients, and enjoy your upgraded Costco breakfast sandwich!