Southern Breakfast Pizza

This Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza transforms classic Southern comfort food into an irresistible morning masterpiece. Combining fluffy scrambled eggs, creamy sausage gravy, and melty cheese on a buttery biscuit crust, it's the ultimate weekend breakfast that will have everyone rushing to the table.

Last weekend, I made this for a family brunch and my Southern-born grandmother declared it "even better than traditional biscuits and gravy" – high praise from someone who's been making the classic version for over 60 years!

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

• Refrigerated Biscuits - Use Grands-style for the best crust, or substitute pizza dough
• Breakfast Sausage - Choose mild, hot, or maple flavored according to taste
• Eggs - Fresh, large eggs create the fluffiest layer
• Cheese - A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack offers perfect meltability
• Milk/Cream - Higher fat content makes richer, creamier gravy
• Flour - Creates the perfect thickening agent for silky gravy

The magic happens when the savory sausage gravy meets melty cheese and fluffy eggs atop that buttery, flaky crust – creating the perfect bite of breakfast heaven.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Gravy Base

Brown 1 pound breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking into crumbles. Once cooked, sprinkle ¼ cup flour over the meat and drippings, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in 3-4 cups milk until smooth, then simmer until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce if desired.

Step 2: Create Your Pizza Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F. Press refrigerated biscuit dough into a lightly greased 12-inch pizza pan or sheet pan, connecting pieces to form a solid crust with slightly raised edges. Pre-bake for 8-10 minutes until just beginning to turn golden but not fully cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Layer

While the crust pre-bakes, whisk 5 large eggs with ¼ cup cream or milk and season with salt and pepper. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently, until just set but still slightly moist. They'll finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Assemble Your Breakfast Pizza

Spread the soft scrambled eggs evenly over the par-baked crust, leaving a 1-inch border. Dollop 2 cups of the sausage gravy strategically over the eggs, then sprinkle 2 cups shredded cheese over everything.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Return pizza to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown, cheese is melted and bubbly, and everything is heated through. For a golden top, broil for the final minute, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 6: Rest, Slice and Serve

Allow the pizza to rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner slices. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs if desired, then serve warm.

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Regional Variations

Southern states each bring their own twist to this breakfast pizza. Tennessee versions often include a drizzle of honey, while Texas adds jalapeños for heat. Louisiana incorporates andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning. Georgia variations include crumbled bacon and a peach preserve drizzle, highlighting how this recipe celebrates local flavors while maintaining its comforting essence.

Health-Conscious Adaptations

This indulgent recipe can be modified for various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Substitute turkey sausage and low-fat milk for a lighter gravy. Use whole wheat pizza dough instead of biscuits for added fiber. Greek yogurt mixed with milk creates protein-rich scrambled eggs. These simple swaps maintain the comfort food appeal while accommodating health-conscious guests.

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Cultural Significance

Biscuits and gravy originated during early American Southern cooking, where cooks created hearty, inexpensive meals from available ingredients. This pizza adaptation represents evolving food traditions passed through generations. Like quilting or storytelling, these recipes preserve cultural heritage while embracing innovation. Each family gathering centered around this dish continues this meaningful cultural exchange.

Seasonal Pairings

Adapt this breakfast pizza to complement seasonal produce throughout the year. Spring calls for asparagus tips and fresh herbs scattered post-bake. Summer demands ripe tomato slices and basil. Fall welcomes roasted butternut squash cubes and sage. Winter versions incorporate caramelized Brussels sprouts. These seasonal additions make this reliable favorite feel fresh and exciting with each changing season.

You Must Know

• Pre-baking the crust prevents sogginess from the gravy
• Cook the flour in the gravy for a full 2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste
• Don't overcook the scrambled eggs since they'll continue cooking in the oven
• Letting the pizza rest before cutting prevents the toppings from sliding off
• Save extra gravy for dipping or to drizzle over individual slices

I learned the importance of pre-baking the crust after my first attempt ended with a soggy middle. That simple step makes all the difference for a breakfast pizza that holds up to the hearty toppings.

Chef's Essential Tips

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of dried sage and a pinch of nutmeg to your sausage gravy
• Use a mix of cheeses for more complex flavor - sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a bit of mozzarella
• Cold biscuit dough is easier to work with when forming the crust
• If using homemade biscuit dough, chill it thoroughly before rolling out
• For a time-saver, prepare the sausage gravy the night before and reheat before assembling

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This breakfast pizza has become our weekend tradition - the perfect way to slow down and enjoy a memorable meal together. The combination of familiar comfort foods in a new format makes breakfast exciting again, and the leftovers (if there are any!) make Monday mornings a lot more bearable.

Final Tips

• For a crowd, make two pizzas with different toppings - add bacon, jalapeños, or caramelized onions to one
• Cut into small squares for a brunch buffet appetizer
• Serve with fresh fruit to balance the richness
• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven (not microwave) for best results
• For a special touch, brush the crust edge with melted butter and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this ahead?

Best made fresh, but components can be prepared ahead.

→ What type of sausage works best?

Traditional pork breakfast sausage, but turkey sausage works too.

→ Can I use homemade biscuit dough?

Yes, just flatten it into a round crust shape.

→ How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Pre-bake the crust until golden before adding toppings.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Try mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or bacon.