Can You Use Breakfast Sausage On Pizza? The Answer Will Amaze You!

The question of whether breakfast sausage can be used as a topping on pizza has sparked heated debates in culinary circles for years. While some pizza enthusiasts swear by its savory and umami-rich flavor, others dismiss it as an abomination that desecrates the sanctity of traditional pizza. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll delve into the world of breakfast sausage pizza, exploring its origins, variations, and the pros and cons of this unconventional topping.

Origins of Breakfast Sausage Pizza

The exact origins of breakfast sausage pizza are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States during the early 20th century. As breakfast sausage became increasingly popular in American homes, adventurous cooks began experimenting with it as a pizza topping. The first recorded instance of breakfast sausage pizza appeared in a 1955 cookbook, which featured a recipe combining sausage, eggs, and cheese on a pizza crust.

Variations on Breakfast Sausage Pizza

Over the years, breakfast sausage pizza has evolved into a diverse culinary genre with numerous variations. Some popular combinations include:

• Classic: Breakfast sausage, eggs, and cheese
• Country: Breakfast sausage, bacon, and cheddar cheese
• Southwestern: Breakfast sausage, chorizo, and pepper jack cheese
• Veggie: Breakfast sausage, peppers, onions, and mushrooms
• Gourmet: Breakfast sausage, roasted tomatoes, and goat cheese

Pros of Using Breakfast Sausage on Pizza

• Savory and Umami-Rich Flavor: Breakfast sausage imparts a distinctive savory and umami-rich flavor to pizza, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste experience.
• Versatile Topping: Breakfast sausage can be paired with a wide variety of other toppings, creating endless possibilities for customization.
• Hearty and Filling: The high protein content of breakfast sausage makes it a hearty and filling topping, perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Breakfast for Dinner: Breakfast sausage pizza is a great way to enjoy your favorite breakfast flavors for dinner, offering a unique and comforting twist on the traditional pizza.

Cons of Using Breakfast Sausage on Pizza

• Overpowering Flavor: Some pizza enthusiasts argue that the strong flavor of breakfast sausage can overpower the other toppings and detract from the overall balance of the pizza.
• Greasy: Breakfast sausage contains a significant amount of fat, which can make the pizza greasy and heavy.
• Not Traditional: Traditional pizza purists may reject breakfast sausage as a topping, arguing that it does not belong on a classic Italian dish.
• Texture: The texture of breakfast sausage can be crumbly and uneven, which may not be to everyone’s taste on a pizza.

How to Make Breakfast Sausage Pizza

Making breakfast sausage pizza is a relatively straightforward process:

1. Prepare the Crust: You can either use a pre-made pizza crust or make your own.
2. Brown the Sausage: Cook the breakfast sausage in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
3. Assemble the Pizza: Spread a layer of pizza sauce on the crust, followed by the browned sausage. Top with your desired toppings and cheese.
4. Bake: Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at 425°F (218°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

In a nutshell

Whether or not breakfast sausage belongs on pizza is a matter of personal preference. While some may find its savory and umami-rich flavor to be a welcome addition, others may prefer to stick to more traditional toppings. Ultimately, the decision of whether to use breakfast sausage on pizza is up to the individual pizza lover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What type of breakfast sausage is best for pizza?
A1. Ground breakfast sausage or patty sausage can both be used on pizza. Ground sausage is easier to distribute evenly, while patty sausage provides more texture.

Q2. Can I use other types of sausage on pizza?
A2. Yes, you can use Italian sausage, chorizo, or even kielbasa on pizza. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination.

Q3. How do I prevent breakfast sausage pizza from becoming greasy?
A3. Use a paper towel to pat the excess grease off the breakfast sausage before adding it to the pizza. You can also use a leaner type of breakfast sausage.

Q4. Can I freeze breakfast sausage pizza?
A4. Yes, you can freeze breakfast sausage pizza for up to 2 months. Wrap the pizza tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing.

Q5. How do I reheat breakfast sausage pizza?
A5. You can reheat breakfast sausage pizza in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per slice.