🍴 Country Ham & Eggs Breakfast?
The Country Ham & Eggs Breakfast is a classic Southern-style meal offered at Waffle House. It typically includes:
- One 5 oz slice of country ham
- Two eggs, cooked to your preference (scrambled by default)
- Toast with jelly (white, wheat, raisin, biscuit, or Texas toast)
- A side of your choice: grits, hashbrowns, or sliced tomatoes
🥓 Ingredients & Their Benefits
1. Country Ham (5 oz)
- Calories: ~640 kcal (including eggs)
- Protein: ~83 g
- Fat: ~33 g (9 g saturated)
- Cholesterol: ~925 mg
- Sodium: ~2,105 mg
- Benefits: A powerful source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Supports muscle growth, red blood cell production, and energy metabolism.
2. Eggs (2 Scrambled)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~12 g
- Fat: ~14 g
- Benefits: High-quality complete protein. Rich in choline (supports brain and liver health), as well as antioxidants for eye health.
3. Toast & Jelly
- White Toast: ~230 kcal
- Wheat Toast: ~220 kcal
- Raisin Toast: ~300 kcal
- Grilled Biscuit: ~380 kcal
- Texas Toast: ~200 kcal
- Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy. Wheat toast contains more fiber and micronutrients. Raisin toast is sweeter and more calorie-dense.
4. Side Options
- Grits: ~90 kcal – light, easily digestible carbohydrate.
- Hashbrowns: ~190 kcal – crispy, carb-rich with more fat.
- Sliced Tomatoes: ~10 kcal – rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene.
💸 Price and Calorie Overview
- Base Calories: Around 640 kcal (2 eggs + ham only)
- Total Calories (with toast & a side): Typically 800–1,200 kcal, depending on choices
- Estimated Price: $10.00 – $11.00
- Extra Eggs: Add around 90 kcal and $0.50 per egg (subject to location and market pricing)
📊 Nutrition Table (Base Meal: Ham + 2 Eggs)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value (2,000 kcal diet) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 640 kcal | — |
| Total Fat | 33 g | 51% |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 925 mg | 308% |
| Sodium | 2,105 mg | 88% |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g | 2% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 7% |
| Sugars | 3 g | — |
| Protein | 83 g | 166% |
*Values may vary slightly by region or preparation method.
🔧 Customization Options & Effects
Eggs
- Add one or two extra eggs for more protein.
- Each additional egg: +90 kcal, +$0.50
- Cooked to order (scrambled, fried, over-easy, etc.)
Toast
- Choose based on flavor or calorie preference:
- Wheat is slightly lighter and healthier.
- Raisin and biscuit are more indulgent.
Side Swaps
- Grits: light and low in fat
- Hashbrowns: customizable with toppings like cheese, onions, and ham
- Tomatoes: ultra-light, low-carb, and refreshing
🔥 Calorie Burn Estimates
To burn approximately 640 kcal (base meal):
| Activity | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Walking (3 mph) | 3 hours |
| Jogging (5 mph) | 1 hour |
| Cycling (moderate) | 1.5 hours |
| Swimming (moderate) | 1 hour |
These are general estimates and vary by body weight and intensity level.
💡 Sample Meal Combinations
1. Light & Balanced
- Country ham + 2 eggs + wheat toast + sliced tomatoes
- Approx. 750 kcal
2. High-Protein Power
- Country ham + 3 eggs + hashbrowns
- Approx. 950–1,000 kcal
3. Low-Carb Option
- Country ham + 2 eggs + sliced tomatoes (no toast)
- Approx. 600 kcal
4. Indulgent Treat
- Country ham + 2 eggs + biscuit + hashbrowns with cheese
- Approx. 1,200–1,300 kcal
✅ Health Overview
Pros
- High in protein, ideal for muscle support
- Eggs offer essential nutrients like choline and B12
- Flexible for different calorie or diet needs
Cons
- Very high in sodium and cholesterol
- Saturated fat levels are considerable
- Can become calorie-heavy with extras
Tip
Pair with a light lunch or dinner if your breakfast is on the heavier side, and stay hydrated.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I get my eggs cooked a different way?
A: Yes. Waffle House offers scrambled, fried, sunny-side-up, over-easy, and more.
Q: What are the lowest-calorie side and toast options?
A: Sliced tomatoes (~10 kcal) and wheat toast (~220 kcal) are the lightest standard choices.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this breakfast?
A: Not by default, but you can omit the ham and customize with eggs, hashbrowns, and tomatoes.
Q: Why is there an extra egg charge?
A: Due to egg shortages and price surges, Waffle House temporarily added a $0.50 surcharge per egg.
Q: Is this available all day?
A: Yes. Waffle House serves breakfast 24/7, including the Country Ham & Eggs Breakfast.
🧠 Final Tips
- Going low-carb? Skip toast and hashbrowns, add tomatoes.
- Need energy for the day? Go with 3 eggs and hashbrowns.
- Watching salt intake? Country ham is very salty; balance the rest of your day accordingly.
- Add flavor or fun: Hashbrowns can be customized with onions, cheese, jalapeños, mushrooms, and more.
📝 Summary
The Country Ham & Eggs Breakfast is a hearty, protein-rich meal that fits both indulgent and mindful eating styles. With customizable sides and toast, it can be tailored to suit your nutritional needs. However, due to its high sodium and cholesterol content, it’s best enjoyed in moderation or balanced with lighter meals through the day. Whether you’re fueling a busy morning or just craving a satisfying Southern classic, it remains a popular and versatile Waffle House choice.