This recipe puts a twist on the classic breakfast, using English muffins as a base for a pizza-style meal. Topped with scrambled eggs, cheese, and savory meats or veggies, it’s a quick, customizable, and tasty way to start the day.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 2 whole wheat or sourdough English muffins, split
- 4 large eggs, scrambled or fried
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup cooked turkey bacon or chicken sausage, crumbled
- ¼ cup diced bell peppers or spinach
- 2 tablespoons salsa or tomato sauce
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or everything bagel seasoning
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toast the split English muffins on the baking sheet for 3–4 minutes.
- Scramble or fry eggs, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Spread salsa or tomato sauce on each muffin half. Top with eggs, cheese, and toppings.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Cool for 2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories per serving: 250
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Healthy Fats: 8g
Why Breakfast Pizza Works
Breakfast pizza is an exciting and flexible alternative to traditional breakfast items like scrambled eggs or pancakes. Combining the elements of pizza and breakfast offers a fun way to enjoy the morning meal. It’s easy to customize based on personal tastes or dietary preferences.
Customizing the Toppings
One of the greatest advantages of breakfast pizza is its versatility. You can swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or personal preferences. Whether it’s using a gluten-free muffin, a dairy-free cheese alternative, or adding vegan toppings like mushrooms and spinach, you can make this dish your own.
The Role of Eggs
Eggs are a crucial component of breakfast pizza, providing both protein and a creamy texture that pairs well with crispy toppings. Scrambled eggs are the most common choice, but a sunny-side-up egg with the yolk intact also adds richness and visual appeal to the pizza.
Cheese Variations
Cheese plays an essential role in tying the toppings together, melting beautifully over the eggs and providing flavor. Cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone are popular choices, but experimenting with goat cheese, blue cheese, or a vegan cheese alternative can elevate the flavor profile of your pizza.
Using Meats in Breakfast Pizza
Adding meats like turkey bacon, sausage, or even prosciutto gives your breakfast pizza an extra savory kick. These protein-packed toppings not only enhance flavor but also contribute to the overall nutritional value, balancing the dish with hearty, satisfying elements.
Vegetables for Nutritional Value
Incorporating vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms, adds not only a burst of color but also valuable nutrients. These vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making the breakfast pizza not only delicious but also a healthier option for the morning.
Importance of Seasoning
Seasoning is vital in bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. A simple mix of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper can enhance the overall taste without overwhelming the dish. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fragrant, fresh finish.
Choosing the Right Sauce
Traditional pizza is often topped with tomato sauce, but breakfast pizza offers flexibility in sauce choices. Tomato sauce, salsa, or even a drizzle of hollandaise sauce can complement the toppings beautifully. These sauces add moisture and an extra layer of flavor, ensuring the pizza doesn’t dry out.
The Benefit of Toasting English Muffins
Toasting the English muffins ensures they hold up well against the toppings. The slight crispness prevents them from becoming soggy, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite. This step also enhances the overall texture and flavor, creating a perfect foundation for your toppings.
Baking vs. Grilling
While baking is the traditional method for preparing breakfast pizza, grilling can also be an excellent alternative. Grilling imparts a smoky flavor and crispy texture to the muffins, creating a unique twist on the classic dish. Grilled pizzas can be particularly enjoyable during the warmer months.
How to Make It Kid-Friendly
For families with kids, breakfast pizza can be a fun and engaging way to get children involved in meal preparation. They can customize their pizzas by choosing their favorite toppings. This hands-on approach not only makes breakfast exciting but also encourages healthy eating habits.
Breakfast Pizza for Meal Prep
Breakfast pizza is perfect for meal prepping because it can be easily made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Preparing individual portions allows you to have a quick and satisfying breakfast ready to go throughout the week, saving time on busy mornings.
Pairing Breakfast Pizza with Beverages
When considering drinks to pair with your breakfast pizza, fresh fruit juices like orange or apple juice complement the flavors well. For a more indulgent experience, a hot cup of coffee or a latte can enhance the savory notes, while iced tea offers a refreshing, lighter option.
The Evolution of Breakfast Pizza
While pizza is traditionally a dinner or lunch dish, the idea of combining breakfast ingredients with a pizza base has been evolving over the years. The innovation behind breakfast pizza reflects a growing trend of blending cultures and meal types, creating more opportunities for exciting new combinations.
Gluten-Free Options
For those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions, using gluten-free English muffins as the base provides a viable alternative without sacrificing flavor. Many gluten-free options are available in stores today, making it easier than ever to enjoy a gluten-free breakfast pizza.
The Appeal of Individual Portions
The individual pizza portions made from English muffin halves make breakfast pizza a convenient and portion-controlled meal. This allows for easier serving and reduces food waste, making it a perfect choice for solo breakfast eaters or larger families alike.
Enhancing Flavor with Avocado
Adding slices of avocado after baking can provide a creamy texture and fresh taste that contrasts nicely with the warm, cheesy pizza. This addition introduces healthy fats and gives the pizza a rich, satisfying finish.
Ideal for Brunch
Breakfast pizza is an excellent option for brunch gatherings. Its casual yet delicious nature makes it a crowd-pleaser, and its customizable ingredients cater to various tastes. Whether served with mimosas or fresh fruit, it’s a dish that suits any brunch setting.
Conclusion
Breakfast pizza is more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity for creativity in the kitchen. Its adaptability to various dietary preferences, ease of preparation, and ability to incorporate a wide range of ingredients make it a staple in many homes. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, breakfast pizza offers endless possibilities and is sure to become a favorite morning tradition.