English Muffin Breakfast Pizza is a classic in our household, something I whip up on lazy weekend mornings when everyone’s craving something both comforting and indulgent. I still remember the first time I made it for my family – their eyes lit up with delight as soon as they saw those golden, cheesy muffins coming out of the oven. It’s become one of those breakfast traditions that bring us all together, especially when we’re bustling around the kitchen, each of us with a task – toasting muffins, scrambling eggs, or preparing the gravy.
There’s something about the creamy sawmill gravy with its rich, savory flavor that complements the hearty breakfast sausage perfectly. And don’t get me started on that gooey, melted cheddar! You know, it’s funny how food can weave itself into the fabric of your family memories. Just the scent of this English Muffin Breakfast Pizza baking away in the oven can transport me back to cozy mornings, with the kids still in their pajamas, eagerly waiting at the table.
Cooking this dish is quite the experience too. I find a sense of satisfaction in making the gravy from scratch. Watching flour transform into a golden roux and then into a creamy sauce is nothing short of magic. And you can’t beat the sizzling sound of sausage cooking away, filling the kitchen with its mouth-watering aroma. It’s these little moments that make cooking such a joy.
If you haven’t tried this recipe before, I highly recommend it. It’s not just about the flavors but also about creating something special for those you love. So, preheat your broiler, gather your ingredients, and let’s make this delightful dish together. You’ll soon understand why this English Muffin Breakfast Pizza is a cherished staple in our home.
How to Make English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
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Ingredients:
- 4 English Muffins, split
- 1 lb Breakfast Sausage
- 8 Eggs
- 8 oz Mild Cheddar Cheese, thinly sliced
- 2 cups Milk
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, or to taste
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet, leaving about 1/4 cup of drippings. If needed, add butter to achieve the required amount.
- For the sawmill gravy, stir in the flour into the drippings, cooking for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring to avoid lumps, and cook until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper, then keep warm.
- While the gravy simmers, toast the English muffin halves. In a separate skillet, scramble the eggs to your preference, adding a splash of milk if desired for fluffier eggs.
- Set your oven broiler to high. On a baking sheet, layer each toasted muffin half with gravy, scrambled eggs, a cheese slice, and some sausage.
- Broil the assembled muffins for 1-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye to prevent over-browning.
Ingredient Tweaks for Your Pantry
For a twist, try swapping out the cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack cheese, each offering a unique flavor profile. If you’re running low on sausage, bacon or ham make excellent substitutes, or go vegetarian with plant-based sausage. You can also try adding spices like cumin or nutmeg for an unexpected flavor enhancement.
Preserving English Muffin Breakfast Pizza for Later Enjoyment
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. For long-term storage, freeze individual pizzas, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then reheat directly from frozen.
Perfect Pairings for English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
This hearty breakfast pizza pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted potatoes for a complete meal. For beverages, a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice complements the rich, savory flavors perfectly.
Top Techniques for Cooking English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
Ensure your sawmill gravy is lump-free by whisking continuously and using cold milk. For the eggs, cook them on medium-low heat to maintain their fluffiness. If you like a crispy muffin, toast them until golden before assembling. Always keep an eye on the broiler to avoid burning the cheese.
Seasonal Twists for English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
In spring, add fresh asparagus or chives for a pop of flavor. Summer brings a bounty of tomatoes and basil, which can be layered on before broiling. For fall, incorporate sautéed mushrooms or squash, and in winter, try using kale or spinach for a nutritious boost.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. Mozzarella, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar can add a delightful twist to the flavor. Each cheese brings its unique character to the dish, so don’t hesitate to try your favorites.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this breakfast pizza, swap the breakfast sausage for a meatless alternative like plant-based sausage or even sautéed vegetables. You can also add extra cheese or tofu for additional protein, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful meal without the meat.
Can I prepare any of the ingredients in advance?
Yes, you can cook the sausage and prepare the sawmill gravy a day ahead to save time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble, simply reheat them on the stove before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.
What should I do if my gravy turns out lumpy?
If you notice lumps in your gravy, try whisking it vigorously while it’s still hot. If that doesn’t work, use an immersion blender to smooth it out. Prevent lumps by adding cold milk gradually to the roux and whisking continuously during the cooking process.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
For a gluten-free variation, use gluten-free English muffins and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the gravy. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the sausage, are also gluten-free to meet dietary needs without compromising flavor.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Incorporate more vegetables by adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sausage mixture. You can also layer fresh spinach or tomatoes on top of the eggs before adding the cheese. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value to your breakfast pizza.
English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Baking sheet
- toaster
- non-stick skillet
Ingredients
English Muffin Pizza:
- 4 pieces English Muffins split
- 1 lb Breakfast Sausage
- 8 pieces Eggs
- 8 oz Mild Cheddar Cheese thinly sliced
Sawmill Gravy:
- 2 cups Milk
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper or to taste
Instructions
Cooking Sausage:
- In a large cast iron skillet, brown the breakfast sausage over medium heat until fully cooked, then remove it from the skillet, setting it aside while retaining 1/4 cup of drippings.
Making Gravy:
- In the same skillet, incorporate the flour into the reserved drippings, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes until a golden roux forms. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and let it simmer until thickened to your liking. Season with salt and pepper and keep warm.
Preparing Eggs and Muffins:
- While the gravy cooks, lightly toast the English muffin halves. In another non-stick skillet, scramble the eggs, adding a splash of milk for fluffiness if desired.
Assembling Pizzas:
- Set your oven to broil high. On a baking sheet, arrange the toasted muffin halves. Generously spread the gravy on each, followed by scrambled eggs, a slice of cheese, and the cooked sausage.
Broiling:
- Broil the muffins for 1-3 minutes, keeping a close watch until the cheese is bubbly and the muffin edges are lightly browned.
