Matzo Brei Recipe I Grew Up On (My Grandma’s Classic)

Matzo brei is one of those simple recipes that somehow always hits the spot. This matzo brei recipe is the version I grew up on – slightly salty, super easy to make, and always served with something sweet on top. It’s the kind of dish that comes together in minutes but still feels like a real meal.

If you’ve never made it before, it’s basically a mix of softened matzo and egg, fried until golden and served warm. You can keep it simple or add your favorite toppings, but for me, it’s always about that balance of a little salty and a little sweet.

It’s perfect for breakfast, dinner, or honestly whenever you want something quick, comforting, and really good.

Why You’ll Love This Matzo Brei Recipe

• It’s incredibly simple – just a few basic ingredients and you’re done
• Ready in minutes – perfect for when you want something quick but satisfying
• That sweet + salty balance – slightly salty base that works perfectly with sweet toppings
• Crispy and golden – especially when you cook it as one big piece
• Works for any time of day – breakfast, dinner, or even a quick snack
• The kind of recipe that sticks – once you make it, it becomes your go-to

Watch How to Make This Matzo Brei Recipe

If you want to see exactly how to make this matzo brei recipe, here’s a quick step-by-step video. It’s super simple once you see it come together.

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What Is Matzo?

Matzo (or matzah) is an unleavened flatbread made from just flour and water. It’s traditionally eaten during Passover, when foods made with yeast or rising agents are avoided.

Because it’s so simple and dry, matzo is often softened or used as a base in different dishes, and that’s exactly how matzo brei comes together.

What Is Matzo Brei?

Matzo brei is a traditional dish made by combining softened matzo with eggs and frying it until golden. It’s especially popular during Passover, but many people make it year-round because it’s so simple and satisfying.

There are different ways to make matzo brei. Some versions are more savory, while others lean sweet. This version is slightly salty, which makes it perfect for adding sweet toppings like sugar, honey, or fruit.

Ingredients

(This recipe makes 1 serving)

• 1½ sheets matzo, broken into small pieces
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup milk
• Pinch of salt
• Neutral oil for frying (I use sunflower oil)

Optional for serving

• Sugar
• Honey
• Fruit
• Or serve with charoset (recipe coming soon)

How to Make Matzo Brei

1. Break the matzo
   Break the matzo into small pieces using your hands, as shown in the video.
2. Mix the egg mixture
   In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with the milk and a pinch of salt.
3. Combine and soak
   Add the matzo to the egg mixture and mix well. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the matzo softens and absorbs the liquid.
4. Heat the oil
   Heat a bit of neutral oil in a pan over medium heat.
5. Cook
   Add the mixture to the pan and shape it into one large matzo brei. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until golden, then flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes on the other side.
6. Serve
   Serve hot. I like to top it with something sweet or serve it with charoset (recipe coming soon).

Tips for the Best Matzo Brei

• Don’t skip the soaking time
  Letting the matzo sit for a few minutes makes a big difference. It softens properly and gives you a better texture.
• Break the matzo into small, even pieces
  This helps everything cook evenly and makes it easier to shape into one piece.
• Cook it as one big matzo brei
  I like making one large piece instead of scrambling it. It gives you those golden edges and a better texture overall.
• Use enough oil
  You don’t need a lot, but enough to help it get nicely golden and not stick.
• Don’t rush the flip
  Let the bottom fully set and turn golden before flipping so it holds together.
• Keep it slightly salty
  This version is meant to be a little salty so it works perfectly with sweet toppings.

FAQs About Matzo Brei

Can I make matzo brei without milk?

Yes. You can skip the milk or replace it with water or a plant-based alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still works well.

Is matzo brei sweet or savory?

It can be both. This version is slightly salty, which makes it perfect for adding sweet toppings like sugar, honey, or fruit.

Can I make matzo brei ahead of time?

Matzo brei is best eaten fresh, right after cooking. You can reheat it, but it won’t have the same texture.

How do I keep matzo brei from falling apart?

Make sure the matzo is properly softened and let the bottom cook fully before flipping. Cooking it as one piece also helps it hold together.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, and you should, just double all the ingredients. You can either make one larger matzo brei or cook it in batches.

More Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this matzo brei recipe, here are a couple of recipes that pair perfectly with it:

• 👉 Matzo Ball Soup – a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for Passover
• 👉 Charoset Recipe – simple, sweet, and the perfect topping for matzo brei 

Final Thoughts

This matzo brei recipe is as simple as it gets, but it’s one of those dishes that always works. It’s quick, comforting, and easy to adjust depending on what you’re in the mood for.

Whether you serve it sweet, keep it simple, or pair it with charoset, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes part of your routine without even trying.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how you serve it.