English muffin breakfast pizza has become my go-to for those mornings when I crave something fun and satisfying but don’t have a lot of time. I remember one chaotic Tuesday when I was running late, and the thought of cereal just wasn’t cutting it. I remembered a package of English muffins in the pantry and had a sudden craving for pizza. Combining those two ideas led to this brilliant creation! The smell of toasting muffins, warm marinara, and melting cheese is just divine. This quick English muffin breakfast pizza recipe is a lifesaver for busy mornings and a fantastic way to use up leftover pizza sauce and cheese. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
This English muffin breakfast pizza is a total game-changer for your mornings! Here’s why I think you’ll absolutely adore it:
- Speedy preparation: It’s one of the easiest breakfast pizza recipes you’ll find, perfect for when you’re short on time.
- Customizable fun: You can load these mini breakfast pizzas with all your favorite toppings – it’s a blast to get creative!
- Kid-approved: Even picky eaters will gobble up these delicious English muffin pizzas.
- Versatile: Whether it’s a quick weekday breakfast or a lazy weekend brunch, it fits any occasion.
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have.
- Satisfying taste: Combines the comforting flavors of pizza with your favorite breakfast elements.
- Minimal cleanup: Most of the cooking happens on a single baking sheet.
Ingredients for English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making the best English muffin breakfast pizza. I always keep these staples on hand for a quick breakfast.
- 2 English muffins, split in half – the perfect base for our mini pizzas
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce – use your favorite, or even leftover pasta sauce!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – it melts beautifully and gives that classic pizza pull
- 4 large eggs – one for each muffin half, cooked to your preference
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning everything just right
- Optional toppings: Cooked bacon or sausage, Sliced bell peppers, Sliced mushrooms, Spinach or arugula, Fresh herbs (e.g., basil or parsley) – this is where you can get creative with your English muffin pizza breakfast ideas!
How to Make English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
Whipping up this delightful English muffin breakfast pizza is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for any morning. You’ll love how quickly these mini masterpieces come together, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Step 1: Prep the English Muffins
First things first, let’s get your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, split your 2 English muffins in half. Arrange them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Now, spread about a tablespoon of your favorite pizza sauce or marinara sauce evenly over each muffin half. This is the foundation of your delicious breakfast creation.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Toppings
Time to get cheesy! Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce on each muffin half. This is where the magic happens for our English muffin pizza breakfast. Now, add your chosen optional toppings. If you’re using cooked bacon or sausage, make sure it’s already prepped and ready to go. Pile on those veggies and herbs for extra flavor and color!
Step 3: Bake and Add Eggs
Pop that baking sheet into the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. You want the cheese to be beautifully melted and bubbly. Once it’s looking golden and delicious, carefully remove the sheet. Now, crack one large egg onto each sauced and cheesed muffin half, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Return the sheet to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your liking. This final bake is crucial for the perfect breakfast pizza on English muffins.
Pro Tips for the Best English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
Want to elevate your English muffin breakfast pizza game? I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. Follow these tips for consistently delicious results!
- Toast the English muffins first for a crispier base that won’t get soggy.
- Don’t over-sauce the muffins; a thin layer is all you need.
- For perfectly cooked eggs, try cracking them into small ramekins first before spooning onto the muffins.
- Use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor, like a sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack along with the mozzarella.
What’s the secret to perfect English Muffin Breakfast Pizza?
The real secret to a perfect English muffin breakfast pizza is to lightly toast the muffin halves *before* adding the sauce and toppings. This creates a barrier that prevents sogginess and gives you a delightful crunch with every bite. It’s a simple step that elevates the entire experience. For more breakfast ideas, check out these healthy breakfast ideas for weight loss.
Can I make English Muffin Breakfast Pizza ahead of time?
You can certainly prep components ahead! Split and toast your muffins, and have your sauce, cheese, and toppings ready. Assemble right before baking for the best texture. For storing leftovers, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can find more tips on storing and reheating make-ahead meals.
How do I avoid common mistakes with English Muffin Breakfast Pizza?
The biggest pitfall is a soggy muffin! To avoid this, always toast your muffins first and don’t use too much sauce. Also, ensure any wet toppings like mushrooms are sautéed beforehand to reduce moisture. Finally, don’t overbake the eggs – remove them when just set for the best texture. For more tips on cooking eggs, you might find this guide on egg muffins with spinach and feta helpful.
Best Ways to Serve English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
Serving up this English muffin breakfast pizza is as fun as making it! It’s a fantastic standalone meal, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to make it a complete breakfast. For a quick weekday treat, just serve them warm as is. On weekends, though, I like to add a side of fresh fruit salad – the sweetness really complements the savory pizza flavors. Another great option is a small portion of crispy home fries or a side of yogurt with granola. These English muffin pizza breakfast ideas are so versatile, you can truly customize your plate!
Nutrition Facts for English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
When you’re enjoying this delightful English muffin breakfast pizza, it’s helpful to know what you’re fueling up with. These numbers are based on the ingredients listed and the suggested serving size of one muffin half.
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: (N/A)
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: (N/A)
- Sodium: (N/A)
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on general nutrition, consider resources like the National Library of Medicine’s nutrition information.
How to Store and Reheat English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
Leftover English muffin breakfast pizza is a treat to have on hand, and knowing how to store and reheat it properly is key. After baking, let your mini breakfast pizzas cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial to prevent condensation that can make them soggy. Once cool, store them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap followed by foil. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, freezing is a great option! Wrap them well and they can be frozen for up to 3 months. These make for a fantastic quick breakfast using English muffins when you’re in a rush.
To reheat your English muffin breakfast pizza, the oven or toaster oven is your best bet for the crispiest results. Place them on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. If you’re really pressed for time, you can carefully microwave them for about 30-45 seconds, but be aware the muffin might lose some of its crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions About English Muffin Breakfast Pizza
Can I use different sauces for my English muffin breakfast pizza?
Absolutely! While pizza sauce or marinara is classic, feel free to get creative with your English muffin breakfast pizza. Pesto makes a fantastic base for a Mediterranean twist, or try a thin layer of scrambled eggs mixed with a little hot sauce for a spicy kick. Even a simple spread of cream cheese with chives can be delicious.
What are some good English muffin pizza breakfast ideas for kids?
Kids love these! For a fun English muffin breakfast pizza experience, let them choose their own toppings. Think mini pepperoni, finely diced ham, corn, or even a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. You can also cut out shapes from cheese slices to make fun designs on top before baking. For more kid-friendly recipes, explore these easy family dinners.
How do I make English Muffin Breakfast Pizza healthier?
Making a healthier version of this breakfast pizza using English muffins is easy! Opt for whole wheat English muffins and load up on fresh vegetable toppings like spinach, bell peppers, and onions. Use a reduced-fat cheese, or simply use less cheese. You can also add lean protein like turkey sausage or extra egg whites.
What’s the best way to ensure the eggs are cooked perfectly on my English muffin breakfast pizza?
To get your eggs just right on your English muffin breakfast pizza, watch them closely during the second bake. If you prefer your yolks runny, take them out as soon as the whites are set. For firmer yolks, bake a minute or two longer. Covering the baking sheet loosely with foil for the last few minutes can help the whites cook through without overcooking the yolk.
Variations of English Muffin Breakfast Pizza You Can Try
Beyond the classic recipe, there are so many fun ways to make your English muffin breakfast pizza your own! Exploring these variations opens up a world of delicious possibilities for any meal.
- Vegetarian Delight: Load up on colorful veggies like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a tangy twist to these veggie-packed English muffin pizza breakfast ideas.
- Meaty Morning Feast: For the carnivores, try adding pre-cooked crumbled sausage, diced ham, or crispy bacon bits. A drizzle of hot sauce can give it a savory kick.
- Spicy Southwest Style: Use a salsa or enchilada sauce instead of marinara, top with black beans, corn, Monterey Jack cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder. This makes for a zesty breakfast pizza on English muffins.
- Sweet & Savory Combo: Believe it or not, a drizzle of maple syrup over bacon and cheese on your mini breakfast pizza English muffin can be surprisingly delicious! It’s an unexpected but delightful flavor pairing.
English Muffin Breakfast Pizza: 1 Quick & Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
English Muffin Breakfast Pizza is a quick and easy breakfast that combines pizza flavors with English muffins. It’s perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunch, offering customizable mini pizzas with your favorite breakfast ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 English muffins, split in half
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Cooked bacon or sausage, Sliced bell peppers, Sliced mushrooms, Spinach or arugula, Fresh herbs (e.g., basil or parsley)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the split English muffins on a baking sheet, cut side up. Spoon a tablespoon of pizza sauce onto each muffin half.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. Add your choice of optional toppings.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven. Crack an egg onto each muffin half and season with salt and pepper.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the eggs are set.
- Let cool for a minute, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use whole grain or gluten-free English muffins for a healthier option.
- Opt for low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese.
- Load up on vegetables for added nutrients.
- Avoid overloading with toppings to prevent sogginess.
- Ensure any meats used are pre-cooked.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in an oven or toaster oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin half
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: N/A
Keywords: English Muffin Breakfast Pizza, English muffin pizza breakfast, breakfast pizza English muffin, mini breakfast pizza, English muffin breakfast pizza recipe, English muffin breakfast pizza toppings, easy English muffin breakfast pizza
