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Who says pizza is just for lunch or dinner? Breakfast pizza is taking over morning menus, offering a delicious way to start the day with your favorite ingredients, melty cheese, crispy crust, and perfectly cooked eggs. Whether you prefer a classic breakfast pizza with eggs and cheese or a gourmet twist with fresh veggies and unique sauces, there’s a version for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this rising breakfast trend. From its origins and popularity to top restaurant recommendations and a step-by-step homemade recipe, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll answer common questions like “Is breakfast pizza a Midwest thing?” and “Do you cook eggs before putting them on pizza?”
What is Breakfast Pizza?
History of Breakfast Pizza
Ever wondered where breakfast pizza came from? While there’s no single inventor, the concept likely evolved from traditional breakfast staples like omelets, frittatas, and toast-based dishes. The idea of adding eggs, cheese, and meats onto a pizza-style crust became popular in the Midwest, particularly at gas station chains like Casey’s General Store.
By the early 2000s, breakfast pizza had expanded beyond the Midwest, popping up on menus at diners, fast food chains, and gourmet pizzerias. Today, you can find versions that range from classic egg-and-cheese combos to creative toppings like avocado, smoked salmon, and even truffle oil.
Why Breakfast Pizza is So Popular Today
So, what’s the big deal? Why are so many people obsessed with breakfast pizza?
- It’s Convenient – Who doesn’t love an easy, grab-and-go breakfast? Many restaurants and fast food chains now offer breakfast pizza as a quick morning option.
- It’s Customizable – Whether you’re vegetarian, keto, or gluten-free, there’s a way to make breakfast pizza fit your diet.
- It’s Fun and Unique – Let’s be honest: breakfast pizza is way more exciting than a plain old bowl of cereal!
- Americans Love Pizza – According to a survey, 69% of Americans believe pizza is a great breakfast option.
With its growing popularity, breakfast pizza isn’t just a trend, it’s here to stay. Whether you grab a slice from a local shop or make your own at home, it’s a game-changer for morning meals.
Types of Breakfast Pizza You Should Know
Not all breakfast pizzas are created equal! Depending on where you are and what flavors you love, there are countless ways to enjoy this morning classic. Whether you prefer a Midwest-style favorite or a gourmet, restaurant-worthy version, there’s a breakfast pizza for everyone.
Classic American Breakfast Pizza
The most common breakfast pizza is simple but satisfying: a golden crust, scrambled eggs, gooey cheese, and savory toppings like turkey sausage or beef bacon. These versions are found in diners, cafes, and even gas stations across the U.S.
Some classic styles include:
- Sausage Gravy Pizza – A Southern-inspired twist where creamy gravy replaces tomato sauce.
- Egg & Cheese Pizza – Perfect for purists who love the simple combo of eggs, cheddar, and mozzarella.
- Meat Lovers’ Breakfast Pizza – Packed with beef bacon, turkey sausage, and sometimes even grilled chicken.
Regional Variations in the U.S.
Different states have put their own spin on breakfast pizza, making it a uniquely American dish. Here are some of the most popular versions:
- Midwest-Style Breakfast Pizza – Popularized by Casey’s General Store, this version features a thick crust, eggs, cheese, and sausage gravy. Many in Iowa and Illinois swear by it as a staple morning meal.
- New York-Style Breakfast Pizza – Often served on a thin, crispy crust with gourmet ingredients like smoked salmon, ricotta, and arugula.
- California-Inspired Breakfast Pizza – A lighter, health-conscious take with toppings like avocado, feta cheese, and fresh greens.
- Tex-Mex Breakfast Pizza – Packed with flavor, this version includes spicy chorizo, jalapeños, and a drizzle of chipotle sauce.
If you love trying new breakfast pizza variations, making your own at home lets you experiment with different flavors and styles. You can check out this delicious breakfast pizza recipe for inspiration!
The Best Breakfast Pizzas from Top U.S. Restaurants
If you want to experience the best breakfast pizza in the country, you’re in luck! Several restaurants and pizzerias have perfected this dish, offering unique flavors and high-quality ingredients.
Top 10 Breakfast Pizzas in the U.S.
Based on expert reviews from Yelp, Food Network, and The New York Times, here are some of the best places to grab breakfast pizza:
- Casey’s General Store (Midwest) – The most famous gas station breakfast pizza, known for its crispy crust and cheesy goodness.
- Motorino (New York, NY) – Serves an upscale version with prosciutto, arugula, and fresh eggs.
- Pizzana (Los Angeles, CA) – A gourmet option featuring truffle oil and burrata.
- Benny’s Big Time (Wilmington, NC) – Offers a spicy breakfast pizza with hot honey and ricotta.
- Roberta’s (Brooklyn, NY) – Known for its wood-fired, thin-crust breakfast pizza with farm-fresh toppings.
- Pizzeria Beddia (Philadelphia, PA) – Features a minimalist but flavorful approach with high-quality cheese and eggs.
- Serious Pie (Seattle, WA) – A Pacific Northwest take, including smoked salmon and crème fraîche.
- Lou Malnati’s (Chicago, IL) – Deep-dish lovers can get a thick, cheesy breakfast pizza with a flaky crust.
- Home Slice (Austin, TX) – A funky, Texas-style breakfast pizza with jalapeños and scrambled eggs.
- Al Forno (Providence, RI) – A unique option featuring a grilled breakfast pizza with caramelized onions and egg.
What Makes These Pizzas Stand Out?
So, what separates an ordinary breakfast pizza from a legendary one?
- Fresh Ingredients – The best pizzerias use farm-fresh eggs, high-quality cheese, and house-made sauces.
- Perfectly Baked Crust – Whether it’s thin and crispy or thick and fluffy, the right crust makes all the difference.
- Unique Toppings – Some places push boundaries with spicy honey, truffle oil, and even caviar!
- Cooking Technique – Wood-fired ovens, cast-iron skillets, and gourmet baking methods elevate the experience.
Want to try making your own breakfast pizza at home? You can follow this step-by-step guide on Food Network to get started.
Recipe 🌟 – How to Make the Perfect Breakfast Pizza
There’s nothing better than waking up to a homemade breakfast pizza, crispy crust, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked eggs. Making it at home is easier than you think, and the best part? You can customize it however you like!
Below is a simple yet delicious breakfast pizza recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients 🛒
For the crust:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the toppings:
- ½ cup pizza sauce (or sausage gravy for a classic touch)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 4 strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup beef sausage, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Directions 👩🍳
1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer it to a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Add the Sauce & Cheese: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce (or sausage gravy for a heartier option) over the dough. Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly on top.
3️⃣ Add the Toppings: Scatter the cooked turkey bacon and beef sausage over the cheese.
4️⃣ Crack the Eggs: Carefully crack the four eggs onto the pizza, spacing them out so they don’t run into each other.
5️⃣ Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny. If you prefer firmer yolks, bake for an extra 2–3 minutes.
6️⃣ Garnish & Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then slice and enjoy!
Additional Info 📋
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per slice: ~350 kcal
Pro Tip: If you love extra flavor, try drizzling some hot honey or garlic aioli on top before serving!
Looking for another breakfast idea? You might enjoy this homemade sausage ball recipe as a perfect side dish!
5 Best Dough Options for Breakfast Pizza
A great breakfast pizza starts with the perfect crust. Whether you love a crispy thin crust or a thick, fluffy base, there’s a dough option for you. Here are five of the best pizza dough choices for making breakfast pizza at home.
1. Classic Pizza Dough
This is the go-to choice for most breakfast pizzas. It’s crispy on the outside and slightly chewy inside. If you want to make your own, try using a high-hydration dough to achieve a perfect balance of crunch and softness.
2. Sourdough Pizza Crust
For those who love a slightly tangy taste, sourdough pizza crust is a game-changer. It’s fermented longer than regular dough, which gives it a richer flavor. Plus, it’s easier to digest!
3. Flatbread or Naan
Short on time? Flatbread or naan is a fantastic alternative that requires zero prep. Simply top it with your favorite ingredients and bake for 10 minutes at 400°F for a quick and easy breakfast pizza.
4. Gluten-Free Dough
If you’re avoiding gluten, don’t worry, you can still enjoy breakfast pizza! Many stores offer pre-made gluten-free dough, or you can make your own using a blend of almond flour, tapioca starch, and eggs.
5. Puff Pastry Crust
For a lighter, flakier take, use puff pastry as your base. This creates a buttery, crispy texture similar to a croissant. Just bake the pastry for 5 minutes before adding toppings, so it doesn’t get soggy.
No matter which pizza dough you choose, the key is to match the crust to your preferred texture and flavor. Whether you go for classic, sourdough, or a shortcut like naan, your breakfast pizza will be delicious!
How to Customize Your Breakfast Pizza
One of the best things about breakfast pizza is how easy it is to customize! Whether you’re craving something healthier, spicier, or more indulgent, there’s a version for you. Below, we’ll explore some fun and creative ways to switch up your breakfast pizza and make it your own.
Healthier Variations
Trying to keep things light? You don’t have to give up on delicious breakfast pizza! Here are some healthy swaps to try:
- Go Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free – Swap traditional dough for a whole wheat crust or gluten-free alternative like cauliflower crust.
- Skip the Heavy Cheese – Use low-fat mozzarella or sprinkle in a bit of feta or goat cheese for a lighter option.
- Pack in the Veggies – Load up on spinach, bell peppers, tomatoes, and mushrooms for added nutrients.
- Try a Lean Protein – Instead of turkey bacon or sausage, use grilled chicken or smoked salmon for a protein-packed bite.
Gourmet Twists
Feeling fancy? These gourmet breakfast pizza ideas take things to the next level:
- Truffle Oil & Arugula – A light drizzle of truffle oil and a handful of fresh arugula give your pizza a restaurant-quality finish.
- Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese – Think of it as a bagel-meets-pizza hybrid! Swap the traditional sauce for a thin layer of cream cheese.
- Pesto & Fresh Mozzarella – Use pesto sauce instead of tomato sauce and top it with chunks of fresh mozzarella for an Italian-inspired twist.
- Spicy Kick – Love heat? Add sriracha, jalapeños, or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra punch of flavor.
Whether you’re going for healthy, gourmet, or spicy, there are endless ways to customize your breakfast pizza. Don’t be afraid to get creative, mix and match different toppings until you find your perfect combination!
Expert Cooking Tips for the Perfect Breakfast Pizza
Want to make sure your breakfast pizza turns out perfect every time? Here are some expert tips to help you nail it!
How to Get the Crispiest Crust
The key to a crispy, golden-brown crust lies in the technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat Your Baking Surface – If using a pizza stone, heat it in the oven at 450°F for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Use a Hot Oven – High heat (450–500°F) ensures your crust crisps up without getting soggy.
- Don’t Overload with Sauce – Too much sauce can make the crust mushy. Use a thin layer to keep it crisp.
- Par-Bake the Dough – If using a thicker crust, bake it for 5 minutes before adding toppings to prevent sogginess.
When & How to Add Eggs for Best Results
Eggs are what make breakfast pizza truly special, but they can be tricky to cook just right. Follow these steps to get perfectly baked eggs every time:
- Runny Yolks? Crack the eggs directly on the pizza 10 minutes into baking, then return it to the oven for another 5–7 minutes.
- Fully Cooked Yolks? Whisk the eggs before adding them to the pizza, or scramble them first and spread them over the crust.
- Pro Tip: For a glossy, Instagram-worthy finish, drizzle a bit of olive oil or melted butter over the eggs before baking!
Cooking the perfect breakfast pizza is all about timing and technique. With the right crust preparation, oven temperature, and egg placement, you’ll get a crispy, flavorful, and restaurant-worthy result every time!
Cheesy Breakfast Pizza
Equipment
- Oven
- Rolling Pin
- Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 1 pre-made pizza dough or homemade, if preferred
- 1 tbsp olive oil for brushing
Toppings
- ½ cup pizza sauce or sausage gravy for a heartier option
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 4 strips turkey bacon cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup beef sausage cooked and crumbled
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
Garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and transfer to a pizza stone or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the dough lightly with olive oil.
- Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce (or sausage gravy) over the dough.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Scatter cooked turkey bacon and beef sausage on top of the cheese.
- Carefully crack the four eggs onto the pizza, spacing them out so they don’t run into each other.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but yolks remain slightly runny. For firmer yolks, bake for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
FAQs – Answering Common Breakfast Pizza Questions
Still have questions about breakfast pizza? You’re not alone! Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you become a breakfast pizza pro.
1. Is breakfast pizza a Midwest thing?
Yes! While breakfast pizza is enjoyed nationwide, it gained major popularity in the Midwest, particularly thanks to Casey’s General Store. Their iconic version, featuring eggs, cheese, and sausage gravy, is a beloved staple in states like Iowa, Nebraska, and Missouri.
2. Does Domino’s make breakfast pizza?
No, Domino’s doesn’t have a dedicated breakfast pizza on their menu. However, you can customize a regular pizza by choosing morning-friendly toppings like eggs, turkey bacon, and cheddar cheese. Some local pizzerias and chains, like Casey’s and Papa Murphy’s, do offer breakfast pizzas.
3. What time does Casey’s serve breakfast pizza?
Casey’s serves their famous breakfast pizza from 5 AM to 10 AM, though some locations may extend availability. It’s best to check with your nearest store to confirm their breakfast hours.
4. Do you cook eggs before putting them on pizza?
It depends on the texture you prefer!
- For runny yolks, crack the eggs directly onto the pizza 10 minutes into baking.
- For fully cooked eggs, scramble them beforehand and spread them over the crust before baking.
5. Can you freeze breakfast pizza?
Yes! Breakfast pizza freezes well for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until fully warmed through.
6. What are the best cheeses for breakfast pizza?
Mozzarella and cheddar are the most common, but for extra flavor, try:
- Feta – Adds a tangy bite.
- Parmesan – Provides a rich, umami taste.
- Smoked Gouda – Perfect for a creamy, slightly smoky twist.
7. Can you make breakfast pizza without an oven?
Absolutely! Here’s how you can do it:
- Cook the pizza dough in a large skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Add toppings, then cover with a lid to melt the cheese.
- If adding eggs, cook them separately and place them on top before serving.
Final Thoughts – Why Breakfast Pizza is a Must-Try
If you haven’t tried breakfast pizza yet, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or love getting creative with gourmet toppings, breakfast pizza is a fun, delicious way to start your day.
Why You Should Make Breakfast Pizza
✔ It’s Quick & Easy – You don’t need fancy ingredients or expert cooking skills!
✔ It’s Customizable – From healthy to indulgent, you can make it however you like.
✔ It’s Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a quick weekday meal, breakfast pizza fits the bill.
So, why not switch up your morning routine and give breakfast pizza a try? You won’t regret it!