English Muffin Breakfast Pizza

English Muffin Breakfast Pizza is a delightful and easy dish perfect for any occasion, be it a lazy weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast. This recipe combines the classic flavors of breakfast favorites into a fun, pizza-style format. With its warm, cheesy goodness and savory sausage, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Use leftover ingredients from other meals; this dish reduces waste while being delicious.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love this fun twist on traditional breakfast foods!
• Great for Meal Prep: Make extra and enjoy throughout the week for a quick breakfast option.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your English Muffin Breakfast Pizza, you’ll need the right tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron pan
• Non-stick skillet
• Baking sheet
• Spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron pan: Ideal for cooking sausage evenly and developing rich flavors.
• Non-stick skillet: Ensures that scrambled eggs come out fluffy without sticking.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for broiling the assembled pizzas evenly.

Ingredients

For this delicious English Muffin Breakfast Pizza, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 package of English muffins

For the Toppings

• 8 eggs

For the Protein

• 1 lb breakfast sausage

For the Cheese

• 8 oz mild cheddar cheese, thinly sliced

For the Sawmill Gravy

• 2 cups milk (for sawmill gravy)
• ¼ cup sausage drippings (add butter if insufficient drippings)
• ¼ cup flour (for sawmill gravy)
• ½ teaspoon salt (for sawmill gravy, or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (for sawmill gravy, or to taste)

How to Make English Muffin Breakfast Pizza

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Cook sausage in a cast iron pan until well done. Remove from pan and pour off all but ¼ cup of fat.

Step 2: Make the Sawmill Gravy

To the reserved meat drippings in the skillet:
* Add flour.
* Cook and stir over medium heat for about 5 to 10 minutes until mixture starts to turn golden.

Step 3: Toast English Muffins

Lightly toast English muffins while making the gravy. This will give them a nice crunch.

Step 4: Scramble Eggs

In a non-stick skillet:
* Scramble eggs and add a small dash of milk if desired to make them fluffier.

Step 5: Assemble Pizzas

Turn oven broiler on high. On a baking sheet:
1. Spread sawmill gravy on each open-faced toasted English muffin.
2. Top with scrambled eggs.
3. Add a slice of cheese and cooked sausage.

Step 6: Broil

Broil until cheese is bubbly and melted. Enjoy your English Muffin Breakfast Pizza!

How to Serve English Muffin Breakfast Pizza

Serving English Muffin Breakfast Pizza is all about creativity and personalization. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick snack.

Classic Pairings

• Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of mixed berries or sliced apples for a refreshing contrast.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Toppings and Variations

• Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado on top for extra richness and healthy fats.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle some hot sauce over the pizza for an added kick.

Garnishes

• Chopped Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives can brighten up the dish and add color.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can enhance the flavor and provide a creamy texture.

How to Perfect English Muffin Breakfast Pizza

To make your English Muffin Breakfast Pizza truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold flavor choices: Use different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda for varied taste.
• Add veggies: Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or tomatoes to increase nutrition and flavor.
• Control the heat: Adjust broiler time to ensure cheese melts perfectly without burning.
• Experiment with spices: Adding garlic powder or paprika can elevate the overall taste.

Best Side Dishes for English Muffin Breakfast Pizza

Pairing side dishes with your English Muffin Breakfast Pizza enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon complements the softness of the pizza.
2. Hash Browns: Golden, crispy hash browns add a satisfying texture alongside your pizza.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings brightness and freshness to your plate.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
5. Green Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a fresh crunch.
6. Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your English Muffin Breakfast Pizza turns out delicious every time.

• Using stale English muffins: Fresh English muffins provide the best base for your pizza. Always check the expiration date and avoid using old ones.
• Overcooking the eggs: Scrambled eggs should be fluffy and light. Cook them on low heat, stirring gently to avoid dryness.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season the gravy can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Underestimating broiling time: Broiling can quickly turn from golden brown to burnt. Watch closely during the last minute to achieve perfect melted cheese.
• Skipping the toast step: Toasting the muffins adds texture and prevents them from getting soggy when topped with gravy and eggs. Always lightly toast before assembly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pizza to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing English Muffin Breakfast Pizza

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating English Muffin Breakfast Pizza

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This method may make the muffins a bit chewy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying English Muffin Breakfast Pizza.

What toppings can I add to my English Muffin Breakfast Pizza?

You can customize your breakfast pizza with toppings like diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocado. Feel free to get creative!

Can I make my English Muffin Breakfast Pizza ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep all ingredients beforehand. Assemble and store in the fridge, then simply reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid soggy muffins?

To prevent soggy muffins, always toast them lightly before adding toppings. This creates a barrier against moisture.

What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?

For a healthier option, use turkey sausage or even vegetarian sausage crumbles. They work well with this recipe too!

How do I make a vegetarian version of English Muffin Breakfast Pizza?

Replace sausage with sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein. You can also add spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

English Muffin Breakfast Pizza is a delightful dish that combines convenience with flavor. It’s perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings and make it truly yours! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.