Prepare the patties: Season the beef patties generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika if using. Press a slight indent into the centre of each patty with your thumb; this stops them from doming up as they cook. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium. You'll know they're ready when the edges are deeply browned and a rich, meaty aroma fills the kitchen. The patty should feel firm but with a little give when pressed. Remove to a plate and keep warm.

Cook the turkey bacon: In the same pan, lay the turkey bacon slices flat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side over medium heat until they are crisp and have turned a deep golden-brown. The sound will change from a gentle sizzle to a sharper, drier crackle as they crisp up. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Toast the muffins: Spread the cut sides of the English muffins with the softened butter. Place them butter-side down in a clean, dry frying pan over medium-low heat. Toast for 2-3 minutes, until the bottoms are a lovely, even golden brown and smell wonderfully nutty and toasty. The edges will be crisp to the touch. Set aside.

Cook the eggs: Reduce the heat under the pan to low. If you have a metal ring, lightly butter the inside and place it in the pan. Crack an egg directly into the ring. If you aren't using a ring, simply crack the egg into the pan and gently nudge the whites into a round shape with a spatula. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook slowly for 3-4 minutes. The white should be completely set and opaque, with no translucent wobble, while the yolk remains gloriously runny and jiggles when the pan is gently shaken. The edges will be lacy and golden. Carefully run a knife around the inside of the ring to release the egg, then remove the ring. Repeat for the second egg.

Assemble the sandwiches: On the bottom half of each toasted muffin, place a slice of cheese. Top with the beef patty, then two slices of the crispy turkey bacon. Gently slide the cooked egg on top of the bacon. Place the top half of the muffin on the egg.

Finish and serve: For a final, melty touch, you can wrap each assembled sandwich in foil and pop it into a low oven (160°C) for 2-3 minutes. This allows the cheese to soften perfectly and the flavours to marry. The foil will steam the bun slightly, making it soft yet still crisp on the cut sides. Serve immediately, while the yolk is still gloriously runny.