Introduction
Pizza for breakfast? Absolutely! Breakfast pizza combines the comforting flavors of your favorite morning dishes with the satisfaction of a hearty pizza. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding a crowd, or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is a perfect way to elevate your mornings.
Breakfast pizza recipe offers endless possibilities, from classic toppings like scrambled eggs and crispy bacon to creative additions like avocado, fresh veggies, and flavorful sauces. Plus, making it at home allows you to customize every bite to suit your tastes.
This guide will walk you through every step of creating the ultimate breakfast pizza. From preparing a light, fluffy crust to layering savory breakfast toppings and baking it to perfection, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Ready to start your morning with a slice of deliciousness? Let’s dive in!
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Breakfast Pizza
To create a breakfast pizza that’s both flavorful and satisfying, it’s important to start with the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials you’ll need for the crust, sauce, and toppings.
1- Ingredients for the Pizza Dough
While you can use store-bought dough for convenience, making your own pizza dough from scratch adds a special touch. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Flour (2 ½ cups): All-purpose or bread flour works best for a soft yet crispy crust.
- Active dry yeast (1 packet or 2 ¼ teaspoons): Ensures a light, airy dough.
- Warm water (¾ cup): Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds moisture and enhances flavor.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Feeds the yeast and helps the dough rise.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Boosts the flavor of the crust.
Shortcut Tip: For a quicker option, use pre-made pizza dough or even a flatbread as your base.
2- Sauce Options for Breakfast Pizza
The sauce is what ties the flavors together and sets the tone for your breakfast pizza. Here are some popular options:
- Sausage Gravy (1 cup): A creamy, savory choice that pairs well with traditional breakfast toppings.
- Classic Marinara (½ cup): For those who enjoy a traditional pizza flavor.
- Cream Cheese Spread (½ cup): Perfect for sweet breakfast pizzas or as a base for savory toppings.
- Hollandaise Sauce (optional): Adds a luxurious, buttery flavor.
3- Classic Breakfast Toppings
A breakfast pizza wouldn’t be complete without a mix of morning favorites. Here are the staples:
- Eggs (4–5 large): Scrambled, sunny-side up, or baked, eggs are the star ingredient.
- Cheese (1½–2 cups, shredded): Mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of both works best for a melty topping.
- Bacon (4–5 slices, cooked and crumbled): Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor.
- Breakfast Sausage (½ cup, cooked): Adds a hearty, meaty element to the pizza.
- Hash Browns or Potatoes (1 cup, cooked): For an extra dose of comfort food.
4- Optional Veggie Add-Ons
Add a healthy and colorful twist to your breakfast pizza with these vegetables:
- Spinach or Kale (1 cup): Lightly sautéed greens for a nutrient boost.
- Cherry Tomatoes (½ cup, halved): Adds a burst of tangy sweetness.
- Bell Peppers (½ cup, diced): For a bit of crunch and natural sweetness.
- Onions (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Red onions or caramelized onions pair beautifully with savory toppings.
- Avocado (1 sliced): Add fresh avocado after baking for a creamy texture.
5- Sweet Topping Options
For a fun twist, try making a sweet breakfast pizza. Swap the savory ingredients for:
- Fruits (1 cup): Sliced bananas, berries, or apple slices.
- Honey or Maple Syrup (drizzled): To sweeten the dish naturally.
- Cream Cheese (spreadable): Use as a base to complement sweet toppings.
- Cinnamon Sugar (sprinkled): Adds warmth and sweetness to the crust.
6- Herbs and Final Touches
Complete your breakfast pizza with these flavorful additions:
- Chives or Green Onions (2 tablespoons, chopped): For a mild oniony flavor.
- Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a pop of freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a little heat.
With all your ingredients prepped and ready, you’re one step closer to enjoying a delicious breakfast pizza.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Breakfast Pizza Dough
The dough serves as the foundation for your breakfast pizza, and making it from scratch ensures the perfect base. Follow these simple steps to create a light, fluffy, and slightly crispy crust.
Step 1 – Activate the Yeast
- Combine the yeast and sugar: In a small bowl, mix 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) of active dry yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar.
- Add warm water: Pour ¾ cup of warm water (about 110°F) into the yeast mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Let it bloom: Allow the yeast to sit for 5–10 minutes. You’ll know it’s activated when the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. If there’s no foam, the yeast may be expired, or the water temperature was incorrect.
Step 2 – Combine the Dough Ingredients
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, then pour in the activated yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Stir until combined: Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix the ingredients until a rough dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
Step 3 – Knead the Dough
- Prepare a surface: Lightly dust a clean countertop or cutting board with flour.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto the floured surface. Using the heel of your hand, press the dough away from you, fold it back toward you, and rotate slightly. Repeat for 8–10 minutes.
- Check the texture: The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If you poke it with your finger, it should bounce back.
Step 4 – Let the Dough Rise
- Oil a bowl: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Place the dough: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in the bowl, turning it to coat with oil.
- Cover and rise: Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it sit in a warm spot for 1–2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, use quick-rise yeast and let the dough rise for about 30 minutes instead.
Step 5 – Prepare the Dough for Baking
- Punch down the dough: Once risen, gently press your fist into the dough to release air bubbles.
- Divide and roll out: If you’re making multiple small pizzas, divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle or oval, about ¼-inch thick.
- Transfer to a baking sheet: Place the rolled-out dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza pan.
Alternative Dough Options
- Pre-made Dough: If you’re short on time, most grocery stores carry pre-made pizza dough, which works perfectly for breakfast pizza.
- Flatbread or Naan: For an even quicker option, use flatbread or naan bread as your crust. Simply assemble your toppings and bake.
- Gluten-Free Dough: Use a gluten-free flour blend to create a dough that works for gluten-sensitive diets.
Prepping Breakfast Toppings
The toppings are what transform a simple pizza into a delicious breakfast masterpiece. From crispy bacon to colorful veggies, the key is preparing everything to ensure even cooking and bold flavors.
Preparing the Protein Toppings
- Breakfast Sausage:
- Cook ½ cup of crumbled breakfast sausage in a skillet, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. Drain any excess grease.
- For a spicy kick, use hot breakfast sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Eggs:
- Scrambled Option: Whisk 4–5 eggs in a bowl with a splash of milk, salt, and pepper. Cook in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until just set (slightly undercooked is fine, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven).
- Sunny-Side-Up Option: Crack eggs directly onto the pizza after assembling the toppings. Space them evenly to ensure proper cooking.
Preparing the Veggies
Adding fresh vegetables not only boosts the nutrition but also creates a beautiful, colorful pizza. Here’s how to prepare them:
- Spinach or Kale:
- Lightly sauté 1 cup of spinach or kale in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. This prevents the greens from releasing too much water during baking.
- Bell Peppers:
- Thinly slice ½ cup of red, yellow, or green bell peppers for a sweet, crunchy topping.
- Onions:
- For a bold flavor, thinly slice red onions. If you prefer a milder taste, caramelize the onions by cooking them in a skillet with a touch of butter over low heat until soft and golden.
- Hash Browns or Potatoes:
- Cook 1 cup of frozen hash browns or dice and roast fresh potatoes until golden and crispy. This adds a hearty texture to your pizza.
- Cherry Tomatoes:
- Halve ½ cup of cherry tomatoes and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture on the pizza.
Choosing the Cheese
Cheese is essential for tying the toppings together and delivering that irresistible melty goodness. Here are some popular options:
- Mozzarella: A classic choice for its mild flavor and gooey texture. Use about 1½ cups, shredded.
- Cheddar: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor. Combine with mozzarella for a balanced taste.
- Parmesan: Sprinkle a handful on top for a nutty, savory finish.
- Feta: Crumble a small amount over the pizza for a tangy, creamy contrast.
- Vegan Cheese: Use plant-based shredded cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
Creative Sauce Options
While traditional marinara works well, you can switch things up with these fun options:
- Sausage Gravy:
- Warm 1 cup of sausage gravy and spread it as the base for a rich, savory pizza.
- Cream Cheese Spread:
- Use softened cream cheese for a sweet or savory twist, depending on the toppings.
- Pesto:
- Spread a thin layer of pesto for a herby, garlicky flavor.
- Hollandaise Sauce:
- Drizzle hollandaise over the pizza after baking for an indulgent breakfast experience.
Sweet Topping Variations
For a unique breakfast pizza, skip the savory ingredients and go sweet:
- Fruits:
- Top with sliced bananas, strawberries, or blueberries for a fruity flavor.
- Cream Cheese Base:
- Spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese as the base, then add fruit and drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
- Cinnamon Sugar Crust:
- Brush the edges of the crust with melted butter and sprinkle with a mix of cinnamon and sugar before baking.
Assembling the Breakfast Pizza
Preparing the Pizza Dough
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well. A hot oven ensures a crispy crust.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Shape it into your desired size—round, square, or rustic.
- Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a lightly greased baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Brush with Olive Oil (Optional):
- For an extra crispy crust, lightly brush the edges of the dough with olive oil before adding the sauce and toppings.
Spreading the Sauce
- Sauce Base:
- Spoon ½ cup of your chosen sauce (sausage gravy, marinara, or cream cheese) onto the center of the dough.
- Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to spread the sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about ½ inch from the edges for the crust.
- Adjust to Your Taste:
- If you want a more saucy pizza, feel free to add more sauce, but be careful not to use too much to avoid making the crust soggy.
Adding the Cheese
- Mozzarella Layer:
- Sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. This will create a gooey, melty base for the toppings.
- Optional Cheese Additions:
- Add any other cheeses you prefer, such as sharp cheddar, feta, or parmesan. A mix of cheeses gives a richer flavor.
Layering the Breakfast Toppings
Now comes the fun part—adding the toppings! Here’s how to layer them for the perfect balance of flavors:
- Proteins First:
- Start with your prepped proteins. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon, cooked breakfast sausage, or scrambled eggs evenly over the cheese.
- If you’re using sunny-side-up eggs, wait until after baking to add them on top.
- Veggies Next:
- Layer your sautéed spinach, bell peppers, onions, and any other veggies on top of the cheese and protein.
- Add a handful of cooked hash browns or roasted potatoes for added texture.
- Fresh Elements Last:
- If you’re using fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes or avocado, add them after baking to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Final Touches
- Season the Pizza:
- Sprinkle the pizza with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like, such as Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Drizzle or Garnish (Optional):
- For extra flavor, drizzle a little olive oil or hollandaise sauce on top before or after baking. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to give the pizza a fresh, aromatic touch.
Baking and Serving the Breakfast Pizza
The toppings are perfectly layered, and the pizza is ready to go into the oven. Baking your breakfast pizza correctly ensures a golden, crispy crust, gooey cheese, and evenly cooked toppings. Let’s finish this delicious creation!
Baking the Breakfast Pizza
- Set the Oven Temperature:
- Make sure your oven is preheated to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, it should already be hot in the oven.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Carefully place the assembled pizza into the oven. If you’re using parchment paper, you can slide the pizza (and parchment) directly onto the pizza stone or place it on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until:
- The crust is golden brown.
- The cheese is melted and bubbly.
- The toppings are lightly caramelized.
- Add Sunny-Side-Up Eggs (If Using):
- If you want sunny-side-up eggs on top, crack the eggs directly onto the pizza about 5 minutes before the baking time is up. This ensures the eggs are cooked but still have a runny yolk.
- Optional Broil (For Extra Crispiness):
- For a crispier crust or slightly browned cheese, switch your oven to broil for the final 1–2 minutes. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
Checking for Doneness
To ensure your breakfast pizza is perfectly baked:
- Crust: Tap the edges of the crust—it should sound hollow and feel firm yet slightly springy.
- Cheese: The cheese should be fully melted with slight golden spots on top.
- Toppings: Vegetables should be tender, and any proteins (like bacon or sausage) should look crisp.
Serving the Breakfast Pizza
- Cool Slightly Before Slicing:
- Let the pizza rest for 2–3 minutes after baking. This allows the toppings to settle and makes slicing easier.
- Slice the Pizza:
- Use a sharp pizza cutter or knife to cut the pizza into 6–8 slices, depending on the size.
- Add Fresh Garnishes (Optional):
- Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley, chives, or green onions, over the pizza for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your breakfast pizza with sides or beverages to create a complete meal:
- Sides: Serve with fresh fruit salad, yogurt parfaits, or a simple green salad for balance.
- Drinks: Coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice, or a mimosa are great choices to complement the flavors of the pizza.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
- Refrigeration:
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrap individual slices in foil. Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing:
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Breakfast pizza can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for 8–10 minutes for a crispy crust.
- Skillet: Reheat slices in a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a lid. This keeps the crust crisp and the cheese melty.
Conclusion
Breakfast pizza is the perfect way to start your day. Its combination of fresh, hearty ingredients and customizable toppings ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From preparing the dough to layering your favorite breakfast toppings, this recipe makes it easy to create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Next time you’re craving a special morning treat, skip the usual breakfast fare and whip up this breakfast pizza instead. Happy cooking—and happy eating!