New Jersey

Pork Roll Burger

Is it Taylor Ham or Pork Roll? That's a debate that divides New Jersey. But everyone agrees this burger is perfection: a juicy beef patty topped with crispy pork roll, a runny fried egg, and melted American cheese. The ultimate Jersey breakfast-burger mashup.

⏱ Total 25min 🍴 Serves 4 ⭐ Jersey Original 🍳 Breakfast Burger

Equipment Needed

🍳 Large Griddle
🍴 Spatula
🥣 Mixing Bowl
🔪 Sharp Knife

Instructions

1

Prep the pork roll: Cut small slits around the edge of each pork roll slice (about 4 cuts per slice). This prevents the meat from curling into a dome shape while cooking and ensures even crisping.

Tip: In North Jersey, it's "Taylor Ham." In Central and South Jersey, it's "Pork Roll." Both are correct. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
2

Form the patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 6 oz each). Shape into patties slightly larger than your rolls. Press a dimple in the center. Season with salt and pepper.

3

Heat the griddle: Heat a large flat griddle or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. You'll be cooking everything at once, diner-style, so make sure you have enough space.

4

Cook the pork roll: Add the pork roll slices to the hot griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy. The edges should curl up slightly even with the cuts. Set aside and keep warm.

5

Cook the patties: In the rendered pork fat (bonus flavor!), cook the burger patties for 3-4 minutes per side. Add American cheese during the last minute and cover to melt.

6

Fry the eggs: Add butter to the griddle and crack the eggs directly onto the cooking surface. Season with salt, pepper, and a light dusting of paprika (SPK style). Cook sunny-side up or over-easy - the yolk should be runny!

Jersey diner wisdom: A runny yolk is essential. When you bite into the burger, the yolk breaks and mixes with the beef juices. This is the way.
7

Toast the rolls: Split the kaiser rolls and toast them on the griddle in the leftover butter and fat until golden brown.

8

Assemble the Jersey way: On the bottom roll, place the cheese-topped burger patty. Layer on 2 slices of crispy pork roll. Crown with the fried egg. Add ketchup to the top roll if desired. Close it up.

9

Serve immediately: This burger is best eaten immediately while the egg yolk is still runny and the pork roll is crispy. Serve with hash browns or disco fries for the complete Jersey diner experience.

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

  • The name debate: Taylor is a brand name (like Kleenex). "Pork Roll" is the generic term. North Jersey says Taylor Ham, everyone else says Pork Roll. It's the same product.
  • Source authentic pork roll: Taylor, Case, and Trenton Pork Roll are the main brands. Look in the refrigerated breakfast meat section or order online.
  • SPK is classic: Salt, Pepper, Ketchup is the traditional Jersey diner way to season eggs. Ask for it "SPK" at any Garden State diner.
  • Kaiser roll matters: A sturdy kaiser roll holds up to the juicy toppings better than a soft sesame bun. It's the traditional choice.
  • Go double pork roll: Two slices per burger is standard. For true Jersey appetite, go four slices.
  • Make it a sandwich: Skip the burger patty and you've got a classic Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese - New Jersey's official breakfast.
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