Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza Ingredients & Substitutions
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a Southern-style breakfast, and few dishes capture that essence quite like a plate of biscuits and sausage gravy. But what happens when you take those beloved ingredients and transform them into something even more fun and shareable? Enter the Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza—a fusion of the classic Southern gravy dish and everyone’s favorite: pizza.
The trend of savory breakfast pizzas has been steadily rising, as more people seek hearty, versatile options that can serve a crowd or elevate a quiet weekend brunch. Unlike sweet pastries or light morning bites, this dish brings a rich, filling experience that sticks with you through the morning.
By combining flaky biscuit dough, creamy sausage gravy, cheddar cheese, and perfectly baked eggs, this breakfast pizza not only redefines comfort food—it becomes the centerpiece of any gathering. Want to level up your gravy game? Here’s a great resource on how to make the perfect sausage gravy to get you started.
Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Pizza
What sets this dish apart is how easily it checks every box for a satisfying morning meal:
- Quick & comforting: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy Sundays.
- Kid-friendly: Its cheesy, savory flavor makes it an instant favorite with little ones—and grown-ups too.
- Customizable: Whether you’re swapping in turkey sausage or trying different cheeses, this breakfast pizza adapts to your kitchen and taste.
If you’re experimenting with store-bought biscuit dough or want to explore other dough-based breakfast ideas, check out these tips on baking with refrigerated doughs.
Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient in this Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza helps you master the dish and customize it for your needs. Below is a breakdown of what each component brings to the table—and how you can make smart swaps.
Refrigerated Biscuit Dough
- The foundation of this breakfast pizza, refrigerated biscuit dough offers a soft, flaky texture that mimics traditional biscuits.
- Opt for buttermilk-style for a richer taste, or layered varieties for a more rustic, pull-apart base.
- Prefer homemade? You can make your own dough using flour, baking powder, butter, and milk for a more hands-on approach. This guide to baking with refrigerated doughs also offers great tips if you’re experimenting.
Sausage Choices
- Traditional pork breakfast sausage offers a classic flavor, but beef sausage is a leaner option that still delivers richness.
- Like a hint of sweetness? Try maple sausage. Prefer heat? Go for a spicy or hot variety to add a bold kick.
Flour, Butter & Milk (Gravy-Making Trio)
- This trio forms the creamy sausage gravy. Use all-purpose flour for thickening, butter for richness, and whole milk for a smooth texture.
- Cook the flour and butter together for 2–3 minutes before adding milk to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Cheddar Cheese
- Sharp cheddar adds a punch of flavor, while mild cheddar keeps it smooth and family-friendly.
- For a creamier melt, consider mixing in some mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
Eggs: Baked or Scrambled
- Baked eggs on top create a beautiful presentation with yolks intact.
- For a softer texture, scramble the eggs before layering them on the pizza. Either method works depending on your preference.
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Substitutes
- Use gluten-free biscuit dough or make a biscuit crust with almond or oat flour.
- Swap out dairy ingredients with plant-based butter, unsweetened almond milk, and dairy-free cheese for a lactose-friendly version.
- For reference, explore the nutrition facts of cheddar cheese to help guide portion sizes and substitutions.
Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions
Each ingredient in this Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza plays a key role in building flavor and texture. Below is a detailed look at what makes this dish work—and how you can adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs.
Refrigerated Biscuit Dough
- This is your base, giving the pizza its flaky, buttery crust.
- Choose layered or buttermilk-style biscuits for the best flavor and structure.
- Want to go homemade? Making your own dough with flour, butter, and milk offers a more rustic touch. If you’re using store-bought dough, these refrigerated dough baking tips can help you get the most out of it.
Sausage Options
- Pork sausage is the traditional choice and delivers the most flavor.
- Beef sausage is a leaner option but still hearty.
- For flavor variation, try maple sausage for a hint of sweetness or spicy sausage to add a bold kick.
Gravy-Making Trio: Flour, Butter, and Milk
- Start with butter and flour, cooking them together until golden to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in milk (preferably whole) until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy gravy.
- If you’re new to gravy, this step-by-step sausage gravy guide breaks it down clearly.
Cheddar Cheese
- Sharp cheddar adds a strong, tangy flavor.
- Mild cheddar is more kid-friendly and has a smoother finish.
- Mix in cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variety.
Eggs: Baked vs. Scrambled
- Baked eggs offer a beautiful, runny-yolk finish right on top of the pizza.
- Prefer a softer texture? Scramble the eggs before layering them over the gravy and cheese.
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Swaps
- Use gluten-free biscuit dough or a homemade blend with almond flour.
- Swap butter for plant-based alternatives and use almond or oat milk in the gravy.
- Choose dairy-free cheese options like soy- or cashew-based varieties.
- Curious about nutritional values? Here’s a quick reference for the nutrition facts of cheddar cheese to guide your choices.
How to Make Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza Step-by-Step
Making Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza is easier than it sounds, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll likely add it to your weekend rotation. Follow these simple steps to get a crispy crust, creamy gravy, and perfectly set eggs.
1. Preheat and Prep the Biscuit Base
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking sheet or pizza pan.
- Press the refrigerated biscuit dough into a 12-inch circle to form your pizza base. Pinch the edges slightly to create a crust rim that holds in the toppings.
For the best texture and even baking, use a layered biscuit dough or pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding toppings. Need help working with biscuit dough? These tips on baking with refrigerated dough are a great starting point.
2. Cook the Sausage and Make the Gravy
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked.
- Add butter to the skillet, then sprinkle in flour. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in milk, stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Not confident about gravy? This guide on sausage gravy can help you get it just right.
3. Assemble the Pizza
- Spread the sausage gravy evenly over the biscuit crust.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously across the top.
- Use a spoon to create four shallow wells in the cheese and crack one egg into each.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until:
- The crust is golden
- The cheese is bubbling
- The egg whites are fully set, but yolks are still soft (if preferred)
Let the pizza rest for 3–5 minutes before slicing and serving.
If you enjoy sausage-based comfort food, you might also love this hearty
creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup—rich, cozy, and perfect for cooler mornings
Tips to Perfect Your Southern Breakfast Pizza
Even with a simple recipe, a few small adjustments can make your Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza go from good to unforgettable. Below are some key tips and frequent pitfalls to watch out for.
1. Don’t Overcook the Eggs
- Baked eggs can go from perfectly runny to rubbery quickly.
- To avoid this, check the pizza after 15 minutes. The whites should be fully set, and the yolks slightly jiggly if you prefer them soft.
2. Gravy Too Thin or Too Thick?
- If the gravy is too runny, continue simmering it over medium heat while stirring—it will thicken naturally.
- Too thick? Whisk in small splashes of milk until the desired consistency returns.
- A proper gravy texture should coat the back of a spoon without running.
Need a refresher on how to get the perfect texture? Use this sausage gravy guide for more help.
3. Keep the Crust from Burning or Getting Soggy
- Pre-bake the biscuit dough for 5–7 minutes before adding toppings.
- Make sure gravy isn’t overly watery, or it may seep into the dough.
- Using a pizza stone or perforated pan can also help maintain a crisp bottom.
Storage, Reheating & Freezing Tips
Knowing how to store and reheat your breakfast pizza ensures it tastes just as good the next day.
- Fridge Life: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm slices in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy and eggs tender.
- Freezing: You can freeze the sausage gravy separately or assemble the entire pizza without eggs and freeze it. Add fresh eggs just before baking for the best texture.
Creative Variations and Toppings
One of the best things about Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking to add a little flair, here are several ways to make this recipe your own.
Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch and pairs perfectly with sausage.
- Jalapeños bring heat and a nice bite.
- Sautéed onions or caramelized onions add a sweet, savory element.
- Mushrooms provide an earthy richness that deepens the overall flavor.
Try Different Cheeses
- Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives a gooey texture.
- Gouda adds a hint of smokiness and depth.
- Pepper jack gives the pizza a spicy, creamy twist—great with jalapeños or hot sausage.
Mixing cheeses can elevate both taste and presentation. Don’t hesitate to combine sharp cheddar with mozzarella for a bold but balanced bite.
Vegetarian-Friendly Options
- Swap sausage with plant-based breakfast sausage or crumbled tempeh.
- Load up on vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, and tomatoes for a vibrant, meatless version.
- Use dairy-free cheese to make it vegan, and refer to the nutrition facts of cheddar cheese to guide portioning if you’re watching your macros.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
Each slice of this breakfast pizza is hearty and satisfying. Here’s an approximate nutrition profile per serving:
- Calories: ~430 kcal
- Protein: 18–22g
- Carbohydrates: 30–35g
- Fat: 25–28g
To lighten it up:
- Use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount slightly.
- Swap sausage for turkey or plant-based alternatives.
- Choose skim milk in the gravy instead of whole milk.
Serving Sausage Gravy Pizza: Best Pairings for Brunch
A warm slice of Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza is rich and filling, so pairing it with lighter, refreshing sides can round out your meal perfectly. Whether you’re serving this for family or hosting brunch, these ideas elevate the experience.
Perfect Pairings
- Fresh fruit platters with berries, melons, or citrus offer a clean, sweet contrast to the savory base.
- A glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice or a light fruit smoothie balances the saltiness of the sausage and cheese.
- Hash browns or crispy potatoes add an extra layer of comfort for hungry guests.
Plating for Guests
- Slice the pizza into clean wedges and serve on large, flat plates.
- Garnish with fresh chives or cracked black pepper for a touch of color.
- Use a wooden board or rustic tray if you’re serving buffet-style—it adds charm and keeps it casual.
For tips on working with dough for baked brunch dishes, these refrigerated dough tips may come in handy.
Why This Cheesy Breakfast Pizza Is Perfect for Potlucks
This dish isn’t just tasty—it’s practical. Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza is a perfect addition to brunch tables, potlucks, and family gatherings.
Why It Works So Well
- Easily scalable: Double or triple the recipe and use large sheet pans to feed a group with minimal effort.
- Make-ahead tips: Prepare the gravy and biscuit dough a day in advance. Store them separately, then assemble and bake fresh in the morning.
- Transporting and reheating: Bake at home, cover tightly with foil, and reheat at your destination. A low oven (300°F) for about 10 minutes works well to warm without drying out.
If you’re freezing parts of the dish ahead, refer back to our earlier tips or check out this gravy guide to prep a freezer-friendly batch.
Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza FAQs
When it comes to making Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza, a few common questions come up again and again. Below are clear, helpful answers to the most searched queries, pulled directly from what people are asking online.
What kind of sausage is best for breakfast pizza?
- The best sausage depends on your flavor preference.
- Pork sausage gives the most traditional, savory flavor.
- Beef sausage is leaner but still hearty.
- Maple-flavored sausage offers a hint of sweetness, while spicy sausage can add boldness to balance the richness of the cheese and gravy.
You can also mix two types together for a more layered flavor.
Can I use crescent rolls instead of biscuit dough?
- Yes, crescent roll dough can be a great substitute. It bakes into a lighter, flakier base with a slightly sweeter flavor.
- If you’re using crescent dough, press the seams together firmly and pre-bake for a few minutes to avoid sogginess.
Looking for more crust ideas? These refrigerated dough baking tips offer great alternatives.
How do I keep the eggs from overcooking on the pizza?
- Eggs cook quickly, so keep an eye on the oven.
- For runnier yolks, check at the 15-minute mark.
- Remove the pizza once the whites are set but the yolks still jiggle slightly. You can also scramble the eggs separately and add them after baking.
Can this be made vegetarian?
- Absolutely.
- Replace sausage with a plant-based alternative, like soy chorizo or crumbled tempeh.
- Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Use dairy-free cheese if needed, and consult the nutrition facts of cheddar cheese if you’re tracking dietary needs.
How do I reheat breakfast pizza without drying it out?
- Use an oven or toaster oven at 350–375°F for about 8–10 minutes.
- Avoid the microwave—it can make the crust chewy and eggs rubbery.
- If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw slightly first for even warming.
Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty Southern-inspired breakfast pizza featuring flaky biscuit dough, creamy sausage gravy, eggs, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for brunch or weekend mornings.
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1/2 pound beef breakfast sausage
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet and press the biscuit dough into a 12-inch circle.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Add butter and stir in the flour. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the sausage gravy evenly over the biscuit crust. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Use a spoon to make 4 wells in the cheese and crack one egg into each.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until crust is golden, cheese is melted, and egg whites are set.
- Let rest for 3 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For crispier crust, pre-bake biscuit base for 5–7 minutes before adding toppings.
- Scrambled eggs can be used instead of cracked eggs if preferred.
- Customize with extra toppings like cooked bacon, mushrooms, or jalapeños.
- Gravy can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for later use.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/4 of pizza)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
Keywords: breakfast pizza, sausage gravy pizza, southern breakfast, biscuits and gravy, egg pizza