English Muffin Breakfast Pizza

This English muffin breakfast pizza is my weekday solution for hearty mornings. Layers of creamy sawmill gravy, crispy sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar all stack up onto toasted English muffins for a handheld breakfast that feels cozy and fun. I always reach for this recipe when the family needs a filling start or a special lazy weekend treat.

This classic quickly became a lifesaver during busy school weeks. My kids especially love assembling their own pizzas and watching the cheese get bubbly under the broiler.

Ingredients

• English muffins: Look for ones that feel light when squeezed for the best toasting texture
• Eggs: Fresh eggs help the scramble stay fluffy and rich
• Breakfast sausage: Choose one you enjoy eating on its own savory country style or spicy both work
• Mild cheddar cheese: Thinly sliced cheese guarantees lovely melting and every bite gets some cheesy flavor
• Milk: Whole milk gives sawmill gravy its signature creamy texture
• Sausage drippings: Adds deep savory backbone to the gravy Butter can be added if your sausage is lean
• Flour: Unbleached all purpose flour yields a smooth gravy base
• Salt: Fine salt helps season both eggs and gravy evenly
• Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper brings warmth to the gravy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Sausage:

Cook breakfast sausage over medium heat in a cast iron skillet until the edges are crispy and any pink is gone Set aside on a plate Pour off extra grease but keep about a quarter cup for the gravy

Make the Gravy Roux:

Sprinkle flour over the reserved drippings in the warm pan Stir constantly over medium heat for about seven minutes until the mixture darkens into a golden sandy paste This step brings rich flavor and ensures the gravy is not lumpy

Finish the Gravy:

Gradually stream in milk though a steady hand is important to prevent lumps Keep stirring as you go Let the mixture come to a gentle boil then drop the heat once it thickens Season with salt and pepper to taste

Toast the English Muffins:

Slice English muffins and put them under the broiler for a minute or two Cut sides up Watch closely so they color evenly and do not harden

Soft Scramble the Eggs:

Break eggs into a nonstick skillet and add a small splash of milk Whisk gently and cook over medium low heat Stir constantly with a spatula until just barely set for a creamy bite

Assemble the Pizzas:

Arrange toasted muffin halves on a baking sheet Each gets a big spoonful of hot gravy then scrambled eggs a sausage crumble or patty and one or two slices of cheddar cheese

Broil and Serve:

Slide the baking sheet under the broiler briefly until the cheese melts and bubbles Watch like a hawk This takes only a minute or two Serve piping hot

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I always look forward to layering that sawmill gravy because it makes this breakfast pizza so special With each bite I remember weekend mornings as a kid helping my grandma pour the gravy just right so every muffin half was generously covered

Storage Tips

Store leftover assembled muffins in a covered container in the fridge for up to two days To reheat arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at three fifty degrees until hot and cheese is melty Again watch closely so the muffins do not crisp too much If you want to freeze wait until after assembling but before broiling for the best results They can be baked straight from frozen

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap in turkey sausage for pork if you prefer a lighter option For cheese feel free to use sharp cheddar mozzarella or even pepper jack for extra flavor If you do not have English muffins small bagels flatbread or even biscuits make a fun base

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Serving Suggestions

Pile on extra toppings like sautéed peppers crispy bacon or fresh tomato slices Just add them before the final cheese step For a brunch spread serve alongside a big fruit salad or roasted potatoes The creamy gravy pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee

Cultural Context

Sawmill gravy is a Southern breakfast tradition where every cook adds their own twist The concept of an open faced breakfast pizza takes cues from diner style plates and transforms it into an easy crowd pleasing bake My family always gathers around the kitchen counter watching the cheese melt and chatting before diving in

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I keep the English muffins from getting soggy?

Lightly toasting the English muffins before assembling ensures they hold up well and stay crisp under the toppings.

→ Can other types of cheese be used?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, provolone, or even pepper jack for different flavors.

→ Is the sawmill gravy essential?

The creamy sawmill gravy adds comfort and richness, but you can skip it or use a lighter sauce if you prefer.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Assemble the components and store separately. Toast and broil the pizzas just before serving for best texture.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Fresh fruit, hash browns, or a crisp green salad make excellent accompaniments for a balanced breakfast.

→ Can bacon be used instead of sausage?

Bacon is a tasty alternative; just cook it until crisp and add to the muffins alongside or instead of sausage.