Name: Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F); 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing; 1 pound breakfast sausage (I prefer Jimmy Dean regular); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick); 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack); 6 large eggs; 2 tablespoons butter; Chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza: the ultimate weekend indulgence that will redefine your brunch game! Forget everything you thought you knew about pizza because this isn't your average Friday night slice. We're talking about a crispy, golden crust slathered with creamy, savory sausage gravy, topped with melted cheese and your favorite breakfast fixings. Trust me, one bite and you'll be hooked.

While the exact origins of breakfast pizza are debated, its rise in popularity is undeniable. It’s a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods, bringing together the heartiness of a Southern-style breakfast with the casual fun of pizza. Think of it as a culinary mashup that celebrates the best of both worlds! This particular version, featuring Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza, elevates the concept to a whole new level of deliciousness.

People adore this dish for its incredible flavor profile. The rich, peppery sausage gravy provides a comforting warmth, perfectly complemented by the gooey cheese and the satisfying crunch of the crust. It’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite breakfast toppings, from crispy bacon and scrambled eggs to sauteed vegetables and a drizzle of hot sauce. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to feed a crowd, making it ideal for brunch gatherings or lazy weekend mornings. So, are you ready to experience the magic of Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
For the Sausage Gravy:
1 pound breakfast sausage (I prefer Jimmy Dean regular)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
For the Toppings:
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
6 large eggs
2 tablespoons butter
Chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pizza Dough:

Okay, let's get started with the foundation of our masterpiece – the pizza dough! Don't be intimidated; it's easier than you think, and the homemade flavor is totally worth it.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Make sure the yeast isn't expired! That's a common culprit for dough that doesn't rise.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. The water temperature is crucial – too cold, and the yeast won't activate; too hot, and you'll kill it. Aim for that sweet spot between 105 and 115°F.
Mix the Dough: Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky, and that's perfectly fine.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. Don't overdo it, though, or your pizza will be tough.
First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat it with the oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is where the magic happens! The yeast is working its wonders, creating those lovely air pockets that give pizza its airy texture.
Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. This helps to redistribute the yeast and gluten, resulting in a more even texture.

Making the Sausage Gravy:

Now, for the star of the show – the sausage gravy! This is what makes this pizza a breakfast pizza, and it's incredibly delicious. Don't skimp on the sausage; it's the heart and soul of the gravy.

Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the breakfast sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy pizza!
Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the gravy.
Whisk in Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Continue whisking until the gravy is smooth.
Simmer and Thicken: Bring the gravy to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
Season: Season the gravy with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
Keep Warm: Remove the gravy from the heat and keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the pizza. You can cover it with a lid to prevent a skin from forming.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza:

Alright, we're in the home stretch! Time to put everything together and bake our breakfast pizza to golden-brown perfection.

Preheat Oven and Baking Stone (Optional): Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. This will help to create a crispy crust. If you don't have a pizza stone, you can use a baking sheet.
Shape the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired shape and thickness. I like a large, thin-crust pizza, but you can make it thicker if you prefer.
Transfer to Baking Sheet or Stone: Carefully transfer the dough to a baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone. If using a baking sheet, you may want to lightly grease it first to prevent sticking.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
Spread Sausage Gravy: Spoon the sausage gravy over the cheese, spreading it evenly. Don't overload the pizza with gravy, or it will be soggy.
Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it, as ovens can vary.

Preparing the Eggs:

While the pizza is baking, let's get those eggs ready. I like to do a simple scramble, but you can cook them however you like – fried, poached, or even as an omelet cut into pieces.

Melt Butter: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Whisk Eggs: In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cook Eggs: Pour the eggs into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are set but still slightly moist. Don't overcook them, or they will be dry and rubbery.

Final Touches:

Almost there! Just a few more steps to make this pizza truly irresistible.

Add Eggs: Remove the pizza from the oven and top with the scrambled eggs. Spread them evenly over the gravy.
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives or green onions, if desired. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
Slice and Serve: Slice the pizza into wedges and serve immediately. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few ideas to customize your Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza:

Add Vegetables: Sauté some diced onions, peppers, or mushrooms and add them to the gravy for extra flavor and nutrients.
Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a spicier kick.
Make it Vegetarian: Use vegetarian sausage crumbles instead of pork sausage.
Add a Drizzle: Drizzle with hot sauce or maple syrup for an extra layer of flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza! It's the perfect way to start your day or enjoy a weekend brunch.

Conclusion:

This Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza isn't just another recipe; it's a weekend game-changer, a brunch superstar, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The creamy, savory sausage gravy blanketing a crispy pizza crust, topped with perfectly cooked eggs and a generous sprinkle of cheese… honestly, what's not to love? It's the ultimate comfort food mashup, bringing together the best of breakfast and pizza in one glorious, unforgettable bite. I know, I know, you might be thinking, "Sausage gravy on pizza? Is that even a thing?" Trust me, it is, and it's about to become your new favorite thing. The richness of the gravy perfectly complements the pizza crust, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. It's surprisingly easy to make, too! Don't let the "pizza" part intimidate you. We're talking simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and minimal cleanup. Why is this a must-try? Because it's delicious, unique, and incredibly satisfying. It's the perfect way to start your day, impress your friends and family, or simply treat yourself to something special. Plus, it's endlessly customizable!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage gravy for a little kick. * Veggie lovers: Sauté some mushrooms, onions, and peppers and add them to the pizza before baking. * Cheese, please!: Experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella is classic, but cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of parmesan would be delicious. * Egg-cellent additions: Try adding crispy bacon bits or crumbled sausage on top of the eggs for extra protein. * Crust considerations: While I love using pre-made pizza dough for convenience, feel free to make your own crust from scratch or even use a store-bought flatbread for a quicker option. * Herb it up: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or basil after baking adds a pop of color and freshness. * Drizzle delight: A drizzle of hot sauce or a balsamic glaze can add a unique twist to the flavor profile. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different toppings and variations to create your own signature Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza. The possibilities are endless! I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! I truly believe it will become a staple in your breakfast rotation. It's the perfect dish for lazy weekend mornings, brunch gatherings, or even a fun weeknight dinner. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza. Once you've made it, I'd love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using #SausageGravyBreakfastPizza and let me know what variations you tried. I can't wait to see your creations! Happy cooking!