Breakfast pizza is the perfect combination of two beloved meals: breakfast and pizza. It brings all the best flavors of a hearty breakfast onto a crispy, cheesy pizza crust. This delightful dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also versatile, customizable, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a family brunch or a weekend treat, breakfast pizza is a winning option that satisfies cravings for both savory and comforting food.

Summary

Notes & Tips

• Time Saver: Use pre-made pizza dough or a store-bought crust to cut down on prep time. 
• Crispier Crust: For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings. 
• Egg Options: If you prefer, you can crack whole eggs directly onto the pizza before baking for a sunny-side-up style topping. 
• Cheese Variety: Mix different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella for more complex flavors. 
• Avoid Overcooking: Make sure not to overcook your scrambled eggs before baking; they will finish cooking in the oven. 

 Things to Avoid

• Soggy crust: If you overload the pizza with too many ingredients, the crust may become soggy. Pre-baking the crust can help prevent this. 
• Undercooked eggs: Ensure your eggs are at least partially cooked before adding them to the pizza. Raw eggs may not fully set in the oven, depending on your toppings. 
• Overbaking: Watch your pizza closely—cooking it too long can dry out the eggs or burn the crust. 

Additional Ingredients for Breakfast Pizza

Beyond the traditional breakfast pizza ingredients, there are many unique options to make your version more exciting:

• Sausage gravy: Used as a base instead of traditional pizza sauce, adding a creamy, savory richness.
• Hash browns or roasted potatoes: Spread them over the pizza for added crunch and texture.
• Mushrooms: These add an earthy flavor, which pairs well with eggs and cheese.
• Ricotta cheese: A dollop of ricotta adds creaminess and makes the pizza feel even more indulgent.
• Smoked salmon: A great option for a more refined, gourmet recipe experience. Pairs well with cream cheese and fresh dill.

For healthier alternatives, you can consider:

• Spinach or kale: Add some greens for a nutritious boost.
• Turkey bacon or chicken sausage: Lower-fat alternatives to traditional pork bacon or sausage.

Nutritional Considerations and Variations

Calories in this recipe can vary significantly based on your choice of ingredients. Here’s how you can make it healthier or more indulgent:

• Healthy breakfast pizza: Use a whole wheat or cauliflower crust to add fiber and nutrients. Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon and use low-fat cheese.
• Keto-friendly version: Go crustless or use a cauliflower base, layer with plenty of cheese, and pile on eggs, avocado, and high-fat meats like sausage or bacon.
• Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add plenty of vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and tomatoes. You can add tofu crumbles or plant-based sausage for extra protein.
• Vegan breakfast pizza: Use a plant-based crust, tofu scramble instead of eggs, vegan cheese, and vegan sausage.

The Breakfast Pizza Trend: History and Popularity

While pizza originated in Italy and has been enjoyed for centuries, breakfast pizza is a relatively recent phenomenon. Pizza as a meal has always been associated with lunch or dinner, especially in its birthplace, Naples, Italy.

The concept of breakfast pizza most likely evolved in the U.S. as a way to enjoy breakfast flavors with the convenience of pizza. It saw a surge in popularity in the early 2000s when Casey’s General Store, a popular convenience chain in the Midwest, introduced their version. Since then, breakfast pizza has become a staple not just in homes but in restaurants and diners as well.

Breakfast Pizza Around the World

Although breakfast pizza has strong American roots, similar dishes can be found globally:

• Shakshuka pizza: Inspired by the popular Middle Eastern and North African breakfast dish, shakshuka pizza features eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce with vegetables on a pizza crust.
• Italian breakfast pizza: In some parts of Italy, pizza topped with eggs, pancetta, and Italian cheeses can occasionally be found, blending the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with morning staples.

These international variations prove that breakfast pizza isn’t just an American invention—it’s a versatile concept enjoyed in different cultures around the world.

Serving for Different Occasions

Breakfast pizza is not only perfect for casual mornings but also shines in various settings:

• Brunch parties: Breakfast pizza can be served as part of a brunch spread, along with other morning favorites like pancakes, fruit, and mimosas.
• Meal prep: Breakfast pizza can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week. Simply bake, slice, and store it in the fridge. Reheat slices for a quick, delicious breakfast.
• Kids’ breakfasts: A surefire hit with kids, breakfast pizza is both fun and easy to eat. You can even involve children in the pizza-making process by letting them choose their own toppings.

Additional Tips for Perfect Breakfast Pizza

Here are a few more useful tips to ensure your breakfast pizza turns out delicious every time:

1. Preheat the pizza stone: If you’re using a pizza stone, make sure to preheat it in the oven for about 30 minutes at 500°F. This gives your crust an extra crispy texture.
2. Use parchment paper: This prevents the pizza from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup easier.
3. Fresh herbs: Finish your pizza with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives. They add a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic flavor.
4. Time your eggs: If you prefer sunny-side-up or poached eggs on your pizza, crack them onto the pizza during the last 5 minutes of baking to ensure they cook perfectly without overcooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Breakfast Pizza

1. Overloading the pizza: Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy or unevenly cooked.
2. Not pre-cooking raw meat: Always cook raw meat like sausage or bacon ahead of time. Pizza’s short cooking time is not enough to fully cook meats from raw.
3. Undercooking the dough: If your crust is too thick, it may remain raw in the center while the toppings are done. To avoid this, either roll the dough thin or partially bake the crust before adding toppings.
4. Egg placement: If adding whole eggs, make sure to create small wells in the pizza toppings so the egg yolk stays intact and doesn’t run off the pizza during cooking.

Breakfast Pizza: Regional and Cultural Variations

While breakfast pizza is largely popular in the U.S., particularly in the Midwest, many countries have their own versions of morning meals that resemble pizza in structure or concept. Here are some interesting cultural takes:

Creative Serving Ideas

If you want to make your breakfast pizza even more special, here are a few creative serving suggestions:

Breakfast Pizza for Dietary Restrictions

1. Gluten-Free Breakfast Pizza: For those with gluten sensitivities or following a gluten-free diet, many grocery stores offer gluten-free pizza crusts. Alternatively, a homemade cauliflower crust is a great low-carb, gluten-free option that holds up well with toppings.
2. Dairy-Free or Vegan Breakfast Pizza:
   • Dairy-Free: Swap out regular cheese for dairy-free cheese (like almond or cashew-based cheeses). Many supermarkets now carry a wide range of dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well.
   • Vegan: For a vegan breakfast pizza, use tofu scramble instead of eggs, and load up with plant-based sausage or crumbled tempeh. Top with veggies like mushrooms, tomatoes, and spinach. Use vegan cheese alternatives for that classic melted texture.
3. Low-Carb or Keto Breakfast Pizza: For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can use a fathead dough (a dough made from almond flour, cheese, and eggs) as the base. Then, add keto-friendly ingredients like high-fat meats, eggs, cheese, and avocado.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Insights

While pizza is generally seen as indulgent, breakfast pizza offers a lot of nutritional potential, especially when made with thoughtful ingredient choices. Let’s explore some health insights:

• Eggs: The eggs used in breakfast pizza are a great source of high-quality protein, as well as vitamins D and B12. Eggs also provide choline, a nutrient important for brain function.
• Cheese: Provides calcium, vitamin D, and protein. You can control the amount of cheese used to manage the fat and calorie content.
• Whole Wheat Crust: By opting for whole wheat crusts, you increase your fiber intake, which supports digestive health and helps you feel full longer.
• Vegetables: Adding nutrient-rich veggies like spinach, tomatoes, bell peppers, and mushrooms increases the vitamin and antioxidant content of your meal.

For a balanced breakfast, aim to include lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates. This can help stabilize blood sugar levels and keep you energized throughout the morning.

Beverage Pairings

Pairing your breakfast pizza with the right beverage can elevate the whole experience. Here are some options:

Breakfast Pizza: Fun Facts

Things to Keep in Mind When Experimenting with Breakfast Pizza

• Avoid greasy overload: While it’s tempting to pile on fatty toppings like bacon, sausage, and cheese, be cautious of adding too much as it can make your pizza overly greasy and heavy.
• Balance of textures: Be sure to balance crispy and soft textures. For instance, using a crispy crust with creamy eggs and gooey cheese creates a more enjoyable eating experience.
• Season your eggs: Don’t forget to season your eggs before placing them on the pizza. Salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika or fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of the entire dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Breakfast Pizza Became a Hit? The Psychology of Food Fusion

The rise of breakfast pizza can be traced back to America’s love for food hybrids—merging two beloved foods into one delicious combination. Similar to the popularity of cronuts or breakfast burritos, breakfast pizza taps into the idea of combining comfort foods for an innovative twist. The ease of preparation and the ability to adapt ingredients to different tastes makes it not only a convenient choice but also a fun, creative dish that breaks away from the monotony of typical breakfast foods.

Why is it So Good?

Breakfast pizza is an all-in-one meal that blends crispy textures with gooey, melty goodness. The versatility in toppings means it appeals to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few reasons why breakfast pizza is a hit:

1. Balanced meal: You get a combination of proteins, carbs, and fats, making it a filling and energizing way to start your day. 
2. Customization: You can personalize your breakfast pizza with whatever ingredients you love or have on hand. 
3. Texture: The crisp crust contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the eggs and cheese. 
4. Portability: Slices are easy to take on the go for busy mornings. 

Was Pizza Originally a Breakfast Food?

Surprisingly, pizza was not originally intended as a breakfast food. The classic Italian pizza that originated in Naples was traditionally a savory meal enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

Breakfast pizza is a more recent culinary invention, largely popularized in America, where creative chefs and home cooks began experimenting with breakfast ingredients on pizza crust. Pizza is now seen as a 24/7 food, making breakfast pizza a perfect fit for those who love a twist on their morning meal.

Is Breakfast Pizza a Midwest Thing?

Yes, breakfast pizza has strong roots in the Midwest, particularly thanks to Casey’s General Store—a popular chain known for their breakfast pizza that has become something of a regional icon. While it may have originated or gained fame in the Midwest, its appeal has since spread across the country. It’s now a staple in many American homes and breakfast menus.

Conclusion

Breakfast pizza is a wonderfully versatile dish that transforms the traditional breakfast experience into something fun and convenient. Its appeal lies in its customizability, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences—whether you prefer a hearty, meat-laden version, a healthier veggie-filled option, or a unique international twist. Try it out for your next brunch or quick family breakfast, and experiment with new flavors!

Looking for more pizza inspiration? Learn about Neapolitan pizza and how its thin crust style paved the way for many American pizza variations!

Breakfast pizza isn’t just a meal; it’s a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Whether you’re looking for something hearty, health-conscious, or gourmet, you can transform this versatile dish to fit any occasion or dietary need. Its ability to bring joy to the breakfast table is why it continues to grow in popularity, and with endless combinations of toppings, the fun of breakfast pizza will never get old.

For more ideas on what to pair with your pizza, explore different regional pizza styles from around the world, such as Chicago-style pizza and New York-style pizza.

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Breakfast Pizza

Mustapha

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Baking sheet or pizza stone
• Oven (preheated to 400°F or 200°C)
• Skillet (to cook the eggs and any toppings like sausage or bacon)
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

Ingredients

  

• Pizza crust: homemade or store-bought
• Eggs: scrambled or sunny-side-up
• Cheese: mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend
• Breakfast meats: bacon, sausage, or ham
• Vegetables: bell peppers, spinach, onions, etc.
• Optional toppings: Hot sauce, salsa, or even avocado slices.

Instructions

 

Prepare Your Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.
• Cook the bacon or sausage in a skillet until crispy, then set aside.
• If using scrambled eggs, whisk the eggs and cook them until slightly underdone (they will finish cooking in the oven).

Assemble the Pizza

• Spread cheese evenly over the crust (leaving a 1-inch border for the crust).
• Add the scrambled eggs and cooked meats (like bacon or sausage) on top of the cheese.
• Layer on any vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or onions.

Bake

• Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

• Take the pizza out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes to cool slightly.
• Slice and serve hot. Optional: top with salsa, avocado, or hot sauce for extra flavor.