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English muffin breakfast pizza is the answer to slow weekend mornings and hungry households with different tastes. When my kids roll out of bed late, these mini pizzas keep everyone happy, fast. You get comforting pizza flavors without fuss, and everybody can top their own muffin just how they like it.
This recipe started as a quick fix during a busy weekday but turned into a Sunday tradition my family looks forward to. I love seeing everyone build their own pizzas and polishing them off before I even sit down.
Ingredients
- English muffins: These make the ideal crisp base that holds up to sauce and toppings. Look for muffins that feel sturdy but not dry and avoid ones that feel too soft so they do not get soggy.
- Pizza sauce: Adds that classic pizza flavor in seconds. For the best taste choose a thick sauce made with real tomatoes and herbs.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey goodness and brings everything together. Freshly grated cheese gives the best melt and pull.
- Eggs: The protein that transforms these into a true morning meal. Use large fresh eggs and cook them your favorite way.
- Cooked sausage or bacon: Adds a savory meaty layer and heartiness. Choose well-cooked and drained meat to avoid excess grease.
- Diced bell peppers: Give color and sweet crunch. Go for brightly colored peppers that feel firm and shiny.
- Sliced black olives: Bring a briny bite and some classic pizza flavor.
- Dried oregano and dried basil: Sprinkle on top for an herby Italian finish. Use fresh if you have it but dried works great.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Rounds out all the flavors. Use a light hand so the toppings still shine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Muffins:
- Set your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit. Place parchment paper on a baking sheet so nothing sticks. Split the English muffins and place them cut side up ready for toppings.
- Layer Sauce and Cheese:
- Spoon pizza sauce evenly onto each muffin half. Make sure to go edge to edge for maximum flavor. Top each with a generous handful of shredded mozzarella so every bite is cheesy.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle crumbled sausage or bacon then scatter diced bell peppers and sliced olives. Press toppings in very gently so they stay put.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide the sheet into the oven and bake for eight to ten minutes until cheese is melted and golden at the edges. You will smell when they are ready.
- Cook the Eggs:
- While the pizzas bake warm a nonstick skillet and cook eggs just the way you like it. Try sunny side up for a runny yolk or a gentle scramble for something softer. Cook in batches as needed and season lightly.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove pizzas from oven and carefully place one cooked egg on each muffin half. Sprinkle dried oregano, dried basil and salt and pepper to finish. Serve hot and watch them disappear.
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My favorite part is how the gooey egg on top mixes with the molten cheese and crispy muffin. Maybe it is just nostalgia but these always take me back to Saturday mornings in my pajamas with cartoons in the background. The best bites are when you get a bit of yolk and bacon in every mouthful.
Storage Tips
To save leftovers wrap cooled pizzas tightly and refrigerate for up to two days. To reheat bake them at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through for crispy muffins and bubbling cheese. The eggs will cook more when reheated so a soft yolk might firm up.
Ingredient Substitutions
No sausage or bacon No problem Use cooked ham or even last night's veggies for a meatless version If you run out of mozzarella swap in cheddar or provolone For a dairy free pizza try plant based cheese and a drizzle of olive oil
Serving Suggestions
Serve these breakfast pizzas with a side of fruit and orange juice for a balanced meal. Or split them in half for brunch platters at a party. If you like extra heat a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños on top does the trick.
Cultural and Historical Context
English muffins have long been a classic breakfast bread in America and Britain. Pairing them with pizza toppings and eggs is a playful twist on traditional Italian pizza with a nod to hearty American breakfasts. This recipe is living proof that delicious food does not need to follow the rules to win over a crowd.
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Breakfast pizzas are such a hit because they combine the best parts of comfort food into one moreish bite. They’re a sure way to brighten a slow morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different meats for the topping?
Yes, swap sausage or bacon with ham, turkey, or keep it vegetarian with extra vegetables.
- → What’s the best way to cook the eggs?
Eggs can be prepared sunny-side up, scrambled, or even poached based on your preference.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Bake the muffins and prep toppings in advance. Add fresh eggs before serving for best flavor.
- → Are other cheeses suitable?
Mozzarella melts well, but try cheddar, provolone, or a blend for different tastes and textures.
- → How do I keep the muffins crispy?
Pre-bake muffin halves briefly or toast them before adding toppings to maintain crispness.