Save This breakfast pizza is the reason my family jumps out of bed on weekends. Imagine golden crust with oozy eggs, crispy bacon, bubbly cheese, and fresh vegetables all layered on a single slice. It is both a comforting classic and a restaurant-worthy treat you can pull off in just over half an hour.
The first time I made breakfast pizza, everyone claimed a corner before it had even cooled. It’s become our go-to brunch and always draws everyone around the table.
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: Choose fresh or store-bought dough for a fluffy but sturdy base Check for elasticity and a fresh scent when selecting
- Crème fraîche or sour cream: This sits in for classic tomato sauce and adds creamy tang Look for thick and rich sour cream if you cannot find crème fraîche
- Mozzarella cheese: Shreds melt quickly and give that signature cheese pull Opt for whole milk mozzarella for best melt
- Cheddar cheese: Adds a little sharpness and balances other cheeses Look for a block and shred it yourself for freshness
- Bacon or sausage: Gives smoky savory flavor and crispy texture Use good quality thick-cut bacon for the best bite or swap for vegetarian sausage
- Cherry tomatoes: Small and sweet with a burst of freshness Ripe and firm tomatoes hold their shape and flavor while baking
- Red onion: Slight crunch and a bit of bite Choose onions that feel firm with bright, shiny skin
- Baby spinach: Fresh green layer that softens beautifully as it bakes Select leaves that look perky and have no wilt
- Eggs: The star of the show Farm fresh eggs have brighter yolks and richer taste
- Black pepper and salt: Essential to bring out all flavors Use freshly ground pepper if possible
- Chives: Optional scatter for bright finish Choose fresh chives for color and mild onion flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to four hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit two hundred thirty degrees Celsius Let the pizza stone heat up inside the oven if you are using one This ensures your pizza cooks evenly and gets a crispy bottom
- Shape the Dough:
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured countertop until it forms a twelve inch circle Stretch gently and work from the center out for an even thickness Place your dough on parchment paper on a baking sheet or a pizza peel
- Spread the Sauce:
- Use the back of a spoon to evenly layer crème fraîche or sour cream onto the dough Stop about half an inch from the edges so the crust will puff up and turn golden
- Add Cheese and Toppings:
- Scatter mozzarella and cheddar cheese across the sauced base Toss bacon cherry tomatoes red onion and spinach over the cheese Aim for even spacing so each bite delivers all the flavors
- Create Egg Wells:
- With a spoon make four shallow indents in the toppings Gently crack an egg into each well Try to keep yolks whole so they bake beautifully
- Season and Bake:
- Sprinkle the pizza with salt and pepper to taste Slide your pizza into the oven Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until the crust is golden and eggs are cooked just how you like If you want firmer yolks leave in for a minute or two more
- Finish and Serve:
- Pull from the oven and immediately scatter with fresh chives if you have them Slice with a sharp knife and serve hot while the yolks are still runny
Save Mozzarella is my personal favorite cheese for this recipe The way it bubbles and browns on top brings me right back to the kitchen Sundays growing up Our dog would park himself in front of the oven just to catch a whiff
Make Ahead And Storage Tips
Any leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days To reheat place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a three hundred fifty degree oven so the crust stays crisp You can also prep the dough the night before and assemble toppings in the morning to save time
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Swap out mozzarella for provolone or a handful of parmesan For vegetarians skip the bacon and throw on sautéed mushrooms or bell pepper Arugula can be used in place of spinach for a peppery kick If lactose free try dairy free cheeses and yogurts
Serving Ideas
Serve with fresh fruit or a green salad for a balanced brunch My favorite pairing is a small glass of fizzy orange juice or cold brew coffee If making for guests consider a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon on the side
A Touch Of History
Savory breakfast pizzas are inspired by American diners but take hints from Italian focaccia style bakes Topping with eggs is a classic way to make pizza more of a morning meal instead of an evening treat You will find versions all over the country each with its own twist
Seasonal Variations
Top with grilled zucchini or peppers in the summer Try roasted butternut squash in autumn Add caramelized onions or cooked root vegetables in winter
Recipe Notes
Let the dough rest for ten minutes if it keeps springing back If you want extra crispy bacon sprinkle half under the cheese half on top Always keep an eye on the eggs during baking for your perfect yolk
Success Stories
One time we made this at a family cabin on a snowy morning and every single person wanted seconds My daughter now commandeers egg duty and cracks them like a pro Kids love to customize their slices with whatever toppings you have at hand
Converting For The Freezer
You can freeze the parbaked crust with cheese and veggie toppings Just leave off the eggs until ready to bake Wrap tightly in plastic or foil Defrost add eggs and bake for a fuss free morning
Save If you make breakfast pizza once, it might just become your family's new tradition. Serve hot and fresh for the happiest weekend mornings.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! Omit bacon or sausage and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for a tasty vegetarian version.
- → What sauce alternatives work well?
Pesto or tomato sauce are delicious options if you're looking for a different flavor instead of crème fraîche or sour cream.
- → How do I know when eggs are set?
Bake until whites are opaque and yolks are just set to your liking. Keep an eye for firmer yolks by adding extra baking time.
- → Can I prepare the dough ahead?
Yes, using store-bought or homemade dough prepared in advance speeds up morning preparation considerably.
- → What sides pair nicely?
Fresh orange juice or sparkling wine complement this dish perfectly for a balanced breakfast or brunch menu.
- → Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Yes, substitute traditional dough with a gluten-free pizza base to accommodate dietary needs.