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This English muffin breakfast pizza transforms ordinary morning ingredients into a delightful handheld meal that will energize your day. I created this recipe when my teenagers started skipping breakfast before school, and these pizzas became the perfect solution that they actually look forward to eating.
I first made these when we had a houseful of hungry kids for a sleepover. The interactive build-your-own aspect was such a hit that it's now our go-to weekend breakfast when friends stay over.
Ingredients
- English muffins: They toast perfectly and create the ideal crispy yet chewy base
- Pizza sauce: Adds classic pizza flavor use homemade or your favorite jarred variety
- Mozzarella cheese: Creates that essential melty cheese pull, look for whole milk mozzarella for best flavor
- Eggs: Provides protein and creates a luxurious texture when the yolk breaks over the pizza
- Cooked sausage or bacon: Adds savory depth, choose precooked to save time in the morning
- Bell peppers: Brings fresh crunch and vitamin C, red peppers are sweetest
- Black olives: Offers briny contrast against the rich cheese and eggs
- Dried oregano and basil: Infuses authentic pizza flavor throughout the dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The moderate temperature ensures the English muffins get crispy without burning while the cheese melts perfectly.
- Prepare English Muffins:
- Split four English muffins in half using a fork around the edges rather than a knife. This creates nooks and crannies that capture more sauce and gives the traditional English muffin texture that makes this recipe special.
- Add Pizza Sauce:
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over each muffin half about one tablespoon per piece. Dont oversaturate or your pizzas will become soggy. Leave a tiny border around the edge for a clean crust handle.
- Add Cheese and Toppings:
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over each muffin followed by your protein and vegetables. For even cooking distribute toppings in a single layer rather than piling them high.
- Bake the Pizzas:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch carefully as ovens vary the cheese should be completely melted with slight browning at the edges.
- Cook the Eggs:
- While the pizzas bake cook your eggs to desired doneness. For runny yolks that create a sauce when broken over the pizza try sunny side up. For easier eating especially for kids scrambled eggs work perfectly.
- Assemble and Season:
- Once the muffins are baked top each with a cooked egg. Sprinkle with dried herbs salt and pepper for that final flavor enhancement that ties everything together.
- Serve Immediately:
- These breakfast pizzas are best enjoyed right away while the muffin is still crisp and the cheese is melty. Gather everyone to the table for maximum enjoyment.
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The English muffins are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered their breakfast pizza potential when trying to recreate a childhood favorite from a local diner. The way the edges get crispy while the interior stays tender reminds me of authentic pizzeria crust but without any of the complicated dough making.
Meal Prep Magic
These breakfast pizzas are ideal for busy week preparation. You can assemble everything except the eggs up to three days ahead and store covered in the refrigerator. In the morning simply bake the prepared muffins and top with freshly cooked eggs. This approach saves precious morning minutes while still delivering that fresh baked taste.
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Creative Variations
The basic recipe provides a classic foundation but the possibilities are endless. Try Mediterranean style with feta spinach and sun dried tomatoes. For southwestern flair use pepper jack cheese chorizo and avocado. My family enjoys a Greek version with tzatziki sauce instead of pizza sauce topped with cucumber tomatoes and feta. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility to work with whatever ingredients you have available.
Kid Friendly Strategy
Making these breakfast pizzas has become a weekend tradition with my children. I set up a toppings bar and let them create their own masterpieces. This not only makes breakfast fun but encourages picky eaters to try new ingredients. My youngest started eating bell peppers only after incorporating them into his breakfast pizza design. The pride of creation often overcomes hesitation about certain foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use whole wheat English muffins?
Yes, whole wheat English muffins work perfectly as a healthier alternative while maintaining the same great taste and texture.
- → What are some topping variations I can use?
You can try spinach, cherry tomatoes, ham, or even mushrooms. Feel free to mix and match toppings based on your preferences.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the English muffins with sauce and toppings in advance. Add the eggs fresh when reheating for the best flavor and texture.
- → How can I ensure the eggs are perfectly cooked?
Cook the eggs to your preferred doneness in a non-stick skillet before placing them on the baked muffins. Options like sunny-side up or scrambled work well.
- → What can I serve with these breakfast pizzas?
Pair them with a fresh fruit salad, yogurt, or a cup of coffee for a balanced breakfast.