Essential Ingredients for Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza
Choosing Your Dough
The Gravy: Heart of the Pizza
No Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza is complete without that creamy, flavorful gravy. You’ll need some breakfast sausage — pork is traditional, but turkey offers a leaner option. Brown the sausage, then stir in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk until your gravy thickens to a rich, pourable consistency. Season well with salt and pepper to taste.
Cheese and Toppings
This is where you can really personalize your breakfast pizza. A combination of shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella provides a gooey, melty base that complements the robust flavor of the gravy. For those who adore a bit of color and extra flavor, sprinkle some diced green onions or a dash of paprika over the top.
By carefully selecting your ingredients and adding your personal touch, you can transform these basic components into a breakfast pizza that’s anything but ordinary. For those interested in crafting their own dough, this Amazing Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe offers a fantastic base to start your culinary adventure.
Stay tuned as we next tackle the step-by-step process
of preparing and baking your Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza to achieve that perfect golden crust and deliciously inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Ingredients List
Before diving into the delightful process of making your Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pizza Dough: 1 pound (homemade or store-bought)
- Breakfast Sausage: 1/2 pound, ground
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (for the gravy)
- Whole Milk: 1 1/2 cups (for a creamy gravy)
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Eggs: 4 large, scrambled (optional topping)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (for cooking)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Green Onions: For garnish (optional)
- Paprika: A pinch for extra flavor (optional)
These ingredients form the backbone of your pizza, ensuring every slice is loaded with flavor and texture. As we move forward, we’ll explore how to combine these elements to create a breakfast masterpiece that’s both nourishing and immensely satisfying.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Preparing the Dough
Start your Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza by focusing on the base—your pizza dough. If you’re making dough from scratch, mix your ingredients until they form a smooth, elastic ball. Let it rise until doubled in size, then punch it down and roll it out into your desired shape on a floured surface. For store-bought dough, simply let it come to room temperature, then stretch it out on your baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit (245 degrees Celsius) to ensure a crispy crust.
- Bake the dough slightly before adding any toppings to prevent it from becoming soggy. About 5-7 minutes should do the trick.
Making the Sausage Gravy
The gravy is what sets this pizza apart, so let’s get it just right:
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s fully browned. As it cooks, break it into crumbles.
- Stir in the flour to the browned sausage, letting it cook for about 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial as it thickens the gravy.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickens. Bring it to a simmer and let it thicken further, then season with salt and pepper.
Assembling the Pizza
With your crust pre-baked and your gravy ready, it’s time to assemble:
- Spread the sausage gravy evenly over the pre-baked crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add the scrambled eggs if you’re using them, spreading them over the gravy.
- Sprinkle both cheeses over the top, creating a generous layer that will melt into the gravy and eggs.
- Garnish with green onions and a sprinkle of paprika for an added kick.
Baking the Pizza
Now that your pizza is assembled, it’s time for the final bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Broil for a minute or two if you like a slightly charred top.
Serving Your Pizza
Allow the pizza to cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing. This rest period helps the cheese set and makes the pizza easier to cut.
- Slice the pizza into wedges or squares, depending on your preference.
- Serve warm, perhaps with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness.
Storing and Reheating
Tips for the Perfect Pizza Every Time
- Ensuring a crispy crust: If your oven tends to bake unevenly, rotate the pizza halfway through the baking process.
- Adjusting the thickness of the gravy: If the gravy is too thick, thin it out with a little more milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Variations: Feel free to add different toppings like bell peppers, diced onions, or even a dash of hot sauce for those who like it spicy.
This Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines the comfort of gravy with the indulgence of pizza. It’s perfect for weekend brunches or when you want to start your day with something special. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!