How to Make a Full Irish Breakfast (With Chef Neven Maguire)
The full Irish breakfast—crispy bacon, handmade sausages, grilled tomatoes, and that perfect fried egg—is more than just a morning meal. It’s a celebration of Irish produce and culinary tradition. In this post, we follow renowned Irish chef Neven Maguire as he walks us through the step-by-step preparation of this beloved dish. Whether you’re visiting Ireland soon or recreating the magic from home, this video is your passport to a taste of Irish hospitality.
🎥 Watch the full video below to cook along with Neven.
What’s in a Full Irish Breakfast?
A traditional Irish fry features:
- Streaky or back bacon – Dry-cured and sometimes whiskey-smoked
- Sausages – Hand-tied and made from local Irish pork
- Black & white pudding – Traditional recipe from County Clare
- Corn-fed egg – Fried with oil, butter, and a steam lid for softness
- Chestnut mushrooms – Cooked in butter with sea salt and black pepper
- Grilled vine tomatoes – Sweet and lightly seasoned
- Potato bread or boxty – Pan-warmed or griddled
Why Ingredients Matter
Neven stresses the importance of quality Irish produce, including:
- Whiskey-smoked, Board Bia-assured bacon
- Monaghan sausages with no MSG
- Award-winning Clare-made puddings
- Fresh, Irish-grown tomatoes and mushrooms
- Corn-fed eggs and locally baked breads
This isn’t fast food—it’s slow, thoughtful, and sourced with care.
Cooking Tips From Neven’s Kitchen
- Bring meat to room temperature before frying
- Use rapeseed oil for high-heat cooking
- Cook sausages and bacon in a hot, smoking pan
- Use kitchen paper to absorb excess oil before serving
- Fry the egg last to keep it soft and runny
- Don’t overcook tomatoes—turn gently for colour
- Mushrooms can be cooked ahead of time
- Add a pinch of fresh thyme to finish
🕛 Timing is key—each element should finish together for a perfect plate.
What Is Boxty?
Neven also introduces boxty, a traditional potato-based dish from West Cavan and the Northwest. Grated potato is mixed into a dumpling or pancake—simple, rustic, and deeply Irish.
Video – Cook the Full Irish with Neven Maguire
Follow along as Neven walks through each step of preparing the ultimate Irish breakfast.
Taste Ireland at Home or Abroad
Whether you’re planning a visit or just dreaming of Irish flavours, this dish is a delicious way to connect with Irish heritage. It’s comfort, craft, and culture all on one plate.
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A Perfect Pairing: Add Irish Soda Bread
No Irish breakfast is complete without a slice of warm, buttery soda bread on the side. Its crumbly texture and slightly tangy flavour pair beautifully with the rich savoury elements on your plate. Plus, it’s simple to make at home.
📍 Learn how to make your own with our guide: How to Make Traditional Irish Soda Bread
Conclusion
A full Irish breakfast is more than just fuel—it’s a moment. And with chefs like Neven Maguire leading the way, it’s also a masterclass in how to cook simply, locally, and with heart. Whether you make this at home or try it on your next trip to Ireland, one thing’s for sure: you’ll be full of more than just food—you’ll be full of Irish pride.
Secure Your Dream Irish Experience Before It’s Gone!
Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions spoil your journey. Iconic experiences like visiting the Cliffs of Moher, exploring the Rock of Cashel, or enjoying a guided walk through Ireland’s ancient past often sell out quickly—especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Ireland’s hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.
Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!