English Muffin Breakfast Pizza -

Description of this recipe:
Start your day off right with this delightful English Muffin Breakfast Pizza, a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the classic flavors of breakfast into a fun and easy-to-make pizza format. With layers of savory sausage, fluffy scrambled eggs, and melty cheddar cheese all served on a toasted English muffin, this breakfast treat is perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast.

Why you will love this recipe:
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It allows you to customize your toppings according to your preferences, whether you want to add veggies, switch up the cheese, or even incorporate different proteins. Additionally, it’s quick to prepare and can be made in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for busy mornings. The combination of textures—from the crispy muffin base to the creamy gravy and fluffy eggs—will have you coming back for seconds!

Introduction

Breakfast is often touted as the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. It sets the tone for your morning and provides the energy you need to tackle whatever lies ahead. The English Muffin Breakfast Pizza takes the traditional breakfast components and elevates them into a fun, shareable dish that everyone will love. Imagine the crispy crunch of an English muffin topped with rich, homemade sawmill gravy, fluffy scrambled eggs, and savory sausage, all finished off with gooey melted cheese. It’s a breakfast that brings the family together, perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

1 package of English muffins
8 eggs
1 lb breakfast sausage
8 oz mild cheddar cheese, thinly sliced
2 cups milk (for sawmill gravy)
¼ cup sausage drippings (add butter if insufficient drippings)
¼ cup flour (for sawmill gravy)
½ teaspoon salt (for sawmill gravy, or to taste)
¼ teaspoon pepper (for sawmill gravy, or to taste)

Preparation:

Step 1: Begin by cooking the breakfast sausage in a cast iron skillet over medium heat until it is well done and browned. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside, but do not discard the drippings.

Step 2: In the same skillet, pour off all but ¼ cup of the sausage drippings. If there isn’t enough fat, add a little butter to make up the difference. Add the flour to the reserved drippings and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until the mixture begins to turn a golden brown color. This mixture is known as a roux and will serve as the base for your sawmill gravy.

Step 3: Gradually add the milk to the roux, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the gravy comes to a boil and thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. Once thickened, season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 4: While the gravy is thickening, lightly toast the English muffins in a toaster or under the broiler until they are golden brown. This step adds a delightful crunch and prevents the muffins from becoming soggy once the toppings are added.

Step 5: In a non-stick skillet, scramble the eggs. For fluffier eggs, you can add a small dash of milk while whisking them. Cook the eggs over medium-low heat, stirring gently until they are just set but still soft.

Step 6: Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. On a baking sheet, assemble the breakfast pizzas by spreading a generous amount of sawmill gravy on each toasted English muffin half. Next, layer on the scrambled eggs, followed by a slice of cheddar cheese, and finally, crumbled breakfast sausage.

Step 7: Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

COOKING Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Serving Suggestions:
Serve these English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color. Pair them with fresh fruit, a side of crispy hash browns, or a refreshing green salad to round out your breakfast. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Tips:

Feel free to customize your breakfast pizzas with additional toppings such as sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even avocado slices.
If you are short on time, you can prepare the sawmill gravy in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to assemble the pizzas.
For a healthier version, substitute turkey sausage and use whole grain English muffins.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 800mg

Conclusion

The English Muffin Breakfast Pizza is a delightful twist on traditional breakfast fare, combining the comfort of classic ingredients into a fun and shareable dish. Whether you’re serving it for a family brunch or enjoying it solo on a busy morning, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, each bite is a reminder of why breakfast is such an important meal. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a breakfast that’s not only delicious but also brings a smile to your face!

Questions and Answers about this recipe:

1. Can I make the sawmill gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sawmill gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened too much.

2. What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?
You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even crumbled bacon if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover breakfast pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze these breakfast pizzas?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked pizzas. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, you can cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the broiling time.

5. What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Consider adding sautéed spinach, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added flavor and texture.