English Muffin Breakfast Pizza

These English muffin breakfast pizzas have become my morning savior on busy weekdays when I need something substantial but don't have time for a full sit-down breakfast. The combination of toasted English muffins topped with creamy homemade gravy, fluffy scrambled eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheese creates a perfect handheld meal that satisfies hunger until lunchtime.

I first made these for my nephew when he stayed over during school break. He's usually a cereal-only kid, but he ate two of these and asked if we could have them again tomorrow. Now whenever the family comes to visit, everyone expects "those English muffin things" for at least one breakfast during their stay.

Must-Have Components

• English muffins: The nooks and crannies create the perfect base for catching all the toppings. Fork-split varieties have the best texture.
• Breakfast sausage: Provides both the meat component and the drippings for the gravy. I use mild, but hot works if you prefer some kick.
• Flour: The thickening agent for your gravy. All-purpose works perfectly here.
• Milk: Creates that creamy gravy base. Whole milk gives the richest results.
• Eggs: The protein-packed layer that makes this truly breakfast-worthy. Farm-fresh adds amazing color if you can get them.
• Cheddar cheese: The melty, golden topping that brings everything together. Medium or sharp works too if you prefer stronger flavor.
• Seasonings: Simple salt and pepper is all you need with the sausage flavor, but red pepper flakes add nice heat if desired.

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Breakfast Building

Sausage Preparation:

Start by cooking your breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks for even distribution on the pizzas. Once browned, remove the meat but save those precious drippings for the gravy.

Gravy Creation:

In the same pan with the reserved drippings, sprinkle in your flour and whisk continuously until it turns golden – about 1-2 minutes. This roux is the foundation of your gravy. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.

Egg Scramble:

In a separate pan, gently scramble your eggs with a splash of milk for extra fluffiness. Cook them just until set but still slightly moist – they'll continue cooking under the broiler.

Muffin Preparation:

Split your English muffins and lightly toast them. This critical step ensures they don't get soggy under the toppings.

Assembly Line:

Spread each toasted muffin half with a generous layer of gravy, then top with scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, and a handful of shredded cheese.

Melting Magic:

Place your assembled breakfast pizzas under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese melts and bubbles to golden perfection.

My first attempt at these was actually a happy accident when I had leftover sausage gravy from the previous night's dinner. I've refined the process over time, learning that making a quick gravy is much easier than I initially thought. I've tried various cheeses too – pepper jack adds a nice kick, and a mixture of mozzarella and cheddar creates that perfect cheesy pull when you take a bite.

Tasty Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to whatever you have on hand. Try using bacon or ham instead of sausage for a different flavor profile. Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach between the egg and cheese layers for extra vegetables. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before broiling for added texture and flavor. For a Mexican-inspired version, use pepper jack cheese and top with avocado and salsa after broiling.

Preparation Pointers

These breakfast pizzas can be prepped ahead for busy mornings. Cook the sausage and make the gravy the night before, storing separately in the refrigerator. The next morning, just warm the gravy, scramble the eggs, and assemble. For meal prep, you can fully assemble and freeze them before the broiling step – just add a few minutes to the cooking time when heating from frozen.

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I've made these English muffin breakfast pizzas countless times now, experimenting with different toppings and techniques. They've become a weekend tradition in our house, especially during the colder months when we crave something warm and substantial to start the day. My husband has been known to make a second batch mid-morning when friends drop by unexpectedly, and there's something genuinely satisfying about watching people's eyes light up when they take that first cheesy, savory bite. Simple ingredients transformed into something that feels special – that's the magic of good home cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these breakfast pizzas ahead of time?

You can prep components like cooking the sausage and making the gravy ahead of time, but assembly is best done right before eating for the best texture and taste.

→ What can I substitute for the sausage?

Bacon, ham, or even vegetarian meat substitutes work well. For the gravy without sausage drippings, use butter instead.

→ Can I freeze these breakfast pizzas?

Yes, but freeze them before the final broiling step. Wrap individually, freeze, then reheat in the oven until the cheese melts when ready to eat.

→ What type of English muffins work best?

Regular or sourdough English muffins work great. For a heartier option, try whole wheat, or for a softer texture, use brioche English muffins.

→ How can I make this recipe lighter?

Use turkey sausage, low-fat milk for the gravy, reduced-fat cheese, and egg whites or a mix of whole eggs and whites to reduce calories while keeping the flavor.