Start your day off with a twist on traditional breakfast foods by making English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas! This easy and customizable recipe transforms the humble English muffin into a delightful and savory pizza that’s perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also packs a punch of flavor and can be tailored to include your favorite toppings. Here’s how to whip up this mouth-watering breakfast in no time.
Ingredients Needed:
- English Muffins: You’ll need 4 English muffins, split in half. Opt for whole grain for a healthier choice.
- Eggs: 4 large eggs, which will be lightly beaten.
- Milk: A splash (about 1/4 cup) to make the eggs fluffier.
- Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works great).
- Cooked Bacon or Ham: 1/2 cup, chopped. You can also use cooked sausage or keep it vegetarian with some sautéed veggies.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Butter or Cooking Spray: For greasing the pan.
- Optional Toppings: Chopped onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, or any of your favorite pizza toppings.
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Muffins:
Set your oven to broil and let it warm up. Meanwhile, lightly toast the English muffins until they are just golden. This helps them hold up better under the weight of the toppings.
2. Scramble the Eggs:
In a bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, salt, and pepper. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and either melt a little butter or spray it with cooking spray. Pour in the eggs and cook, stirring frequently, until they are softly scrambled. You’ll want them slightly undercooked as they will go into the oven later.
3. Assemble the Pizzas:
Place the toasted English muffin halves on a baking sheet. Spoon an equal amount of scrambled eggs onto each muffin half. Sprinkle the chopped bacon, ham, or other protein (or veggies) over the eggs. Top each muffin with a generous amount of cheese.
4. Broil the Breakfast Pizzas:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and broil for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
5. Serve Hot:
Remove from the oven and if desired, top with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Customization and Tips:
One of the great things about these English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas is how easy they are to customize. Vegetarians might enjoy a version with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and onions, while those looking for something spicier can add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and turkey bacon.
Additionally, these pizzas are not only a quick breakfast option but also make excellent snacks or a fun dinner, especially appealing to kids.
Conclusion:
English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas are a creative, satisfying, and versatile choice that can suit any taste preferences. They combine the comfort of scrambled eggs and the excitement of pizza, making your morning meal both exciting and fulfilling. Give this recipe a try and add some pizzazz to your breakfast routine!
Serving and Storage Tips for English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas
Serving Tips:
- Fresh is Best: English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas are best enjoyed fresh right after they come out of the oven when the cheese is still melty and the muffins are crispy.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra touch of freshness and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or basil over the top just before serving.
- Serve with Sides: To round out your meal, consider pairing the pizzas with a side of fresh fruit, a smoothie, or even a small salad if you’re having them for brunch or lunch.
- Hot Beverages: Complement your breakfast pizza with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or a warm cocoa, especially on chilly mornings.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them from getting soggy, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place them in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the muffins and melt the cheese. You can also reheat them in a microwave for a quick option, but be aware that this might make the muffins a bit softer.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas. First, allow them to cool completely after assembly. Wrap each pizza individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as suggested above.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas are delicious and enjoyable, whether served immediately or saved for later. This makes them a convenient and tasty option for quick breakfasts, satisfying snacks, or even a light meal.
1. Can I make English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas ahead of time?
Yes, you can partially prepare these breakfast pizzas ahead of time to make your mornings even easier. You can pre-toast the English muffins and cook any toppings like bacon, sausage, or vegetables the night before. Store these prepared components separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply assemble the pizzas with the pre-cooked ingredients, add the fresh eggs and cheese, and broil.
2. What are some healthy topping options for English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas?
To keep your breakfast pizza on the healthier side, focus on adding plenty of vegetables and lean proteins. Some great options include spinach, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and zucchini. For proteins, consider using turkey bacon, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage to reduce fat and calories. Opt for low-fat cheeses or just use a smaller amount of regular cheese.
3. Are English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, these can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free English muffins, which are available at most grocery stores. Be sure to check the labels on all your other ingredients like bacon or sausage to make sure they don’t contain any hidden gluten.
4. How can I make this recipe vegan?
Making vegan English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas is quite simple with a few substitutions. Use vegan English muffins as the base, and swap the eggs for a tofu scramble or a commercially available vegan egg alternative. Use plant-based cheese and vegan meat substitutes such as vegan sausage or tempeh bacon. You can also load up on vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrients.
