Description of this recipe
This recipe transforms the humble English muffin into a delightful breakfast pizza, combining savory sausage gravy, fluffy scrambled eggs, and melted cheddar cheese for a quick, easy, and satisfying morning meal. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekend brunches.
Why you will love this recipe
This English Muffin Breakfast Pizza is a winner because it’s incredibly versatile and customizable. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste preferences or use up what you have on hand. It’s also ready in minutes, making it a great option for those mornings when you’re short on time but still craving something hearty and delicious. The combination of textures and flavors – the crispy muffin, creamy gravy, soft eggs, and melty cheese – makes every bite a joy. Plus, it’s a fun and approachable way to get kids involved in cooking!
Ingredients:
→ Base
- 4 English muffins, split in half
→ Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk, plus additional splash for scrambled eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
→ Sausage and Gravy
- 1/2 pound breakfast sausage, pork or turkey
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, optional for gravy (for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup whole milk, plus additional as needed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but adds a warm, comforting flavor)
→ Topping
- 8 slices mild cheddar cheese, or preferred cheese (Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend are great options)
- Optional: Chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Sausage. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook breakfast sausage until fully browned and crumbly. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up as it cooks. This process should take about 8-10 minutes. Make sure the sausage is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside in a bowl, reserving approximately 1/4 cup of drippings (fat) in the skillet. The sausage drippings will add depth of flavor to the gravy. If there isn’t enough fat from the sausage, you can add a tablespoon of butter to ensure you have the right amount for the roux.
Step 2: Make the Gravy. Add the butter (if using) and then sprinkle the flour into the sausage drippings in the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the mixture turns golden brown. This is called a roux, and it’s crucial to cook it properly to avoid a floury taste in your gravy. This process should take about 5 to 10 minutes. Be careful not to burn the roux, as this will make the gravy bitter. Once the roux is golden brown, gradually whisk in 1/4 cup milk. Continue to whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Simmer the gravy, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash more milk until it reaches the right consistency. Season the gravy with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Step 3: Toast the English Muffins. While the gravy simmers, lightly toast the English muffin halves either in a toaster or under a broiler until they are just crisp. Toasting the muffins will prevent them from becoming soggy when you add the toppings. Keep a close eye on them if you’re using a broiler to prevent burning. You want them to be lightly golden brown.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs. In a non-stick skillet, scramble the eggs with a splash of milk over medium-low heat. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the eggs gently with a spatula, until they are softly set but still slightly moist. Avoid overcooking the eggs, as they will continue to cook in the oven under the broiler.
Step 5: Assemble and Broil. Preheat the oven broiler on high. Arrange the toasted English muffin halves on a baking sheet. Top each half with a spoonful of sausage gravy, followed by a portion of the scrambled eggs. Sprinkle the reserved cooked sausage evenly over the eggs. Finally, top each muffin half with a slice of cheddar cheese. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbling, watching closely to prevent burning. This should only take a few minutes, so stay vigilant.
Step 6: Serve Immediately. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the baking sheet from the oven and serve the English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas immediately while hot. Garnish with chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired, for added flavor and visual appeal.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease: Easy
- Time: Quick
- Flavor: Savory and satisfying
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these breakfast pizzas with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or melon, for a balanced meal.
- Pair them with a glass of orange juice, coffee, or tea for a complete breakfast experience.
- For a heartier meal, add a side of crispy bacon or sausage links.
- These pizzas can also be served as a brunch item or a light lunch.
Tips:
- To save time, you can cook the sausage and make the gravy ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat before assembling the pizzas.
- If you don’t have English muffins, you can use other types of bread, such as bagels, croissants, or even slices of toast.
- Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking. Some other great options include mushrooms, onions, peppers, spinach, or ham.
- For a spicier version, use hot breakfast sausage or add a dash of hot sauce to the gravy.
- If you want to make these pizzas vegetarian, you can substitute the sausage with crumbled vegetarian sausage or sautéed vegetables.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cook Time:
- 15 minutes
Total Time:
- 25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 350-450 per pizza
- Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams per pizza
- Sodium: Approximately 500-700 milligrams per pizza
Conclusion
This English Muffin Breakfast Pizza recipe is a fun, easy, and delicious way to start your day. With its customizable toppings and quick preparation time, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a simple weekday breakfast or a crowd-pleasing brunch option, this recipe is a winner! Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sausage, gravy, and scrambled eggs ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat before assembling the pizzas. This is a great way to save time on busy mornings.
Q2: What if I don’t have English muffins?
A: If you don’t have English muffins, you can use other types of bread, such as bagels, croissants, or even slices of toast. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of bread you use.
Q3: Can I freeze these breakfast pizzas?
A: While you can freeze them, the texture of the eggs and cheese may change slightly. If you do freeze them, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q4: What are some other topping ideas?
A: The possibilities are endless! Some other great topping ideas include mushrooms, onions, peppers, spinach, ham, bacon, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Feel free to get creative and use what you have on hand.
Q5: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, you can substitute the sausage with crumbled vegetarian sausage or sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, and peppers. You can also add a layer of spinach for extra nutrients.
