Breakfast pizza has grown in popularity as a delicious way to start the day, combining classic breakfast ingredients like eggs, bacon, and sausage on a pizza crust. This dish merges the flavors of breakfast with the convenience of pizza, making it a beloved choice for many. However, a common question arises: “Is breakfast pizza a Midwest thing?” Does this tasty creation have roots in the Midwest, or has it spread beyond regional boundaries to become a nationwide trend? In this article, we’ll explore the origins, rise in popularity, and evolution of breakfast pizza while answering the question, “Is breakfast pizza a Midwest thing?”
The Rise of Breakfast Pizza: What Ingredients Does It Include?
Before exploring whether breakfast pizza is a Midwest thing, it’s important to first understand what breakfast pizza is and why it has won the hearts of so many food enthusiasts.
What Is Breakfast Pizza?
Breakfast pizza reinvents the classic pizza by swapping traditional toppings for morning favorites. Instead of tomato sauce, you’ll find scrambled eggs, cheese sauce, or sausage gravy as the base. Toppings typically feature bacon, sausage, cheese, and vegetables such as onions, peppers, and spinach. This combination creates a perfect breakfast dish with hearty, flavorful ingredients. It’s a delicious twist that’s perfect for starting the day.
The crust serves as the foundation, and it can range from traditional pizza dough to alternatives like flatbread, crescent roll dough, or even biscuit dough. Breakfast pizza is versatile, allowing for creativity and customization depending on personal taste and regional preferences. Which brings us to the question: Is breakfast pizza a Midwest thing? Let’s examine its origins to find out.
Why the Midwest Loves Breakfast Pizza: Is Breakfast Pizza a Midwest Specialty?
1. The Midwest and Its Food Culture
Breakfast pizza is often linked to the Midwest because of the region’s fondness for hearty, comforting foods. Midwestern cuisine emphasizes meat, potatoes, and dairy, with dishes crafted to sustain people through cold winters and long workdays. Dishes like casseroles, pot roasts, and stews are staples, and breakfast follows the same trend. Midwest breakfasts are known for being hearty and filling, making breakfast pizza an ideal match for the region’s cuisine. Its combination of satisfying ingredients fits perfectly with the Midwest’s tradition of robust meals.
- Comfort Food Appeal: Breakfast pizza embodies all the qualities of classic comfort food, bringing together cheese, eggs, and meats on a warm, crispy crust. This aligns perfectly with the Midwest’s culinary traditions.
- Hearty Breakfasts: In the Midwest, people often begin their day with substantial breakfasts, and breakfast pizza is the perfect dish to provide a filling meal all in one.
2. The Influence of Gas Stations and Convenience Stores
One of the most significant reasons for breakfast pizza’s association with the Midwest comes from gas stations and convenience stores. Chains like Casey’s General Store, headquartered in Iowa, have been instrumental in popularizing breakfast pizza across the region. Casey’s began serving breakfast pizza in the early 2000s, and it quickly became one of their most popular menu items. Many Midwesterners have fond memories of grabbing a slice of breakfast pizza from their local gas station on their way to work.
- Casey’s General Store: Casey’s is famous for its breakfast pizza, typically featuring scrambled eggs, cheese, bacon, and sausage on a soft pizza crust. It’s a convenient grab-and-go meal that suits the busy lifestyles of many Midwesterners.
- Other Convenience Stores: Other regional convenience stores like Kwik Trip (Wisconsin) and Kum & Go (Iowa) have also embraced breakfast pizza, making it a staple in many small towns and cities.
Is breakfast pizza a Midwest thing because of these gas stations? It certainly appears that way, as gas stations played a key role in turning this dish into a regional favorite.
The Origins of Breakfast Pizza: Where Did It Come From?
1. Pizza’s History in the U.S.
Before determining if breakfast pizza is a Midwest thing, it’s important to first explore the history of pizza in America. Pizza, which originated in Italy, became a popular dish in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly in cities with large Italian-American populations. Over time, pizza evolved into various regional styles, such as New York’s thin-crust pizza and Chicago’s deep-dish pizza.
As pizza became more popular, people began adapting it for different meals and occasions. Breakfast pizza soon followed, blending convenience with morning flavors. It became a great option for any time of day, offering both versatility and classic tastes. This twist on traditional pizza allows for endless possibilities, combining eggs, cheese, and meats with a beloved dish.
2. The Growth of Breakfast Trends
In recent decades, breakfast itself has undergone significant evolution. What was once considered a quick and simple meal has turned into a culinary experience, especially with the rise of brunch culture. Dishes like avocado toast, breakfast burritos, and breakfast sandwiches have gained popularity, and breakfast pizza fits right into this trend.
Is breakfast pizza a Midwest thing because of these broader breakfast trends? While the Midwest may have embraced it early, the national shift toward creative breakfast dishes has helped spread breakfast pizza’s appeal far and wide.
Has Breakfast Pizza Expanded Beyond the Midwest?
Although breakfast pizza originated in the Midwest, it has spread far beyond the region. Today, breakfast pizza can be found in restaurants, cafes, and even in the frozen food aisles across the country. Its popularity has grown, showing that people everywhere appreciate this delicious morning twist on a classic dish.
1. National Chains Embrace Breakfast Pizza
Major pizza chains like Domino’s and Papa John’s have added breakfast pizzas to their menus in some locations, bringing the dish to a broader audience. Although these chains may not offer breakfast pizza everywhere, its presence on the menu highlights its national popularity.
- Domino’s Breakfast Pizza: In certain regions, Domino’s has experimented with breakfast pizza options that include scrambled eggs, cheese, bacon, and sausage, showing that the demand for this dish exists beyond the Midwest.
- Papa John’s: Similarly, Papa John’s has offered breakfast pizzas in select markets, indicating that it sees potential for the dish to be a hit with customers outside of the Midwest.
2. Breakfast Pizza on Brunch Menus
Breakfast pizza has also found its way onto brunch menus in cities across the country. In metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, and Austin, trendy restaurants and cafes have adopted breakfast pizza as part of their offerings, often giving it a gourmet twist.
- Gourmet Breakfast Pizzas: Restaurants have taken the idea of breakfast pizza and elevated it with ingredients like smoked salmon, truffle oil, arugula, and poached eggs. These variations appeal to a more upscale crowd but still adhere to the core concept of breakfast pizza.
This shift from a regional favorite to a nationwide trend demonstrates that while breakfast pizza began in the Midwest, its appeal has spread far beyond, making it popular across the country.
3. Frozen Breakfast Pizza: A Convenience Food Hit
Frozen breakfast pizza has become a growing market, with brands like DiGiorno and Red Baron offering easy, heat-and-eat options. These frozen pizzas, loaded with eggs, cheese, bacon, and sausage, provide a convenient and delicious choice for busy mornings. Their popularity has brought breakfast pizza into the national spotlight, making it a staple in homes across the country.
- DiGiorno’s Breakfast Pizza: DiGiorno’s frozen breakfast pizzas have become a go-to choice for those seeking a quick and easy morning meal, without the effort of making pizza from scratch.
The widespread availability of frozen breakfast pizza shows that the dish has expanded far beyond the Midwest, reaching homes across America. This popular meal combines convenience and flavor, making it a favorite nationwide.
Regional Variations of Breakfast Pizza: Midwest and Beyond
Though breakfast pizza originated in the Midwest, regions across the U.S. have put their own spin on it, incorporating local flavors and preferences. These unique variations make breakfast pizza a versatile dish enjoyed nationwide.
1. Midwest Breakfast Pizza
As we’ve discussed, the classic Midwestern breakfast pizza usually features scrambled eggs, cheese, and breakfast meats like bacon or sausage. The base is typically a soft pizza crust, and the pizza is often sold in convenience stores and gas stations for an easy, grab-and-go meal.
- Popular Toppings: Eggs, cheddar or mozzarella cheese, sausage, bacon, ham, and sometimes vegetables like onions and peppers.
- Signature Style: The Midwest is known for its hearty portions and straightforward ingredients, making this version of breakfast pizza a comfort food favorite.
2. West Coast Breakfast Pizza
On the West Coast, especially in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, breakfast pizza tends to be lighter and healthier. Common ingredients include avocado, arugula, and heirloom tomatoes, served on thin, crispy crusts. This West Coast variation adds a fresh, nutritious twist to the classic dish.
- Popular Toppings: Avocado, poached eggs, goat cheese, arugula, and tomatoes, finished with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze.
- Signature Style: West Coast breakfast pizzas emphasize fresh, healthy ingredients and lighter flavors, catering to a more health-conscious audience.
3. Southern Breakfast Pizza
In the South, breakfast pizza features richer ingredients inspired by classic Southern breakfasts. It’s common to find pizzas topped with sausage gravy, biscuits, and fried chicken, making for a hearty and indulgent meal. Southern breakfast pizzas embrace bold, comforting flavors, making each bite satisfying. These pizzas offer a unique twist, combining favorite Southern dishes with the convenience of pizza.
- Popular Toppings: Sausage gravy, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, cheddar cheese, and fried chicken.
- Signature Style: Southern breakfast pizzas are rich and decadent, often featuring creamy sauces and hearty toppings.
4. New York Breakfast Pizza
In New York City, breakfast pizza thrives in trendy brunch spots, featuring gourmet ingredients and artisanal dough. The crusts are thin and crispy, topped with prosciutto, ricotta, and fresh herbs. This version offers a sophisticated twist, blending high-quality ingredients with the classic appeal of breakfast pizza.
- Popular Toppings: Prosciutto, ricotta cheese, fresh basil, and sunny-side-up eggs, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients.
- Signature Style: New York breakfast pizzas are often refined and upscale, with an emphasis on presentation and unique flavor combinations.
How to Make Breakfast Pizza at Home
If you’re excited to try making breakfast pizza at home, here’s a simple guide to get you started. Whether you want to recreate a classic Midwest version or experiment with gourmet ingredients, the process is simple and fun. You can easily customize it to suit your taste, making breakfast pizza a great option for any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pizza Dough: You can either make your own dough or purchase pre-made dough from the store.
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs are a common choice, but you can also bake or fry eggs directly on the pizza.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda are popular choices.
- Meats: Bacon, sausage, ham, or Canadian bacon.
- Vegetables: Onions, peppers, tomatoes, spinach, and mushrooms add flavor and nutrition.
- Optional Base: Sausage gravy, cheese sauce, or even a light pesto can serve as a base.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully heat.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out your pizza dough to the desired thickness and place it on a greased baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Add the Base: Spread a thin layer of sausage gravy, cheese sauce, or scrambled eggs on the pizza dough.
- Add Toppings: Layer your chosen meats, vegetables, and cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the pizza in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: After removing the pizza from the oven, top with fresh herbs or a drizzle of hot sauce. Slice and enjoy!
Conclusion: Is Breakfast Pizza a Midwest Thing?
So, is breakfast pizza a Midwest thing? The answer is yes and no. While breakfast pizza certainly has deep roots in the Midwest, thanks in part to chains like Casey’s General Store and the region’s love for hearty, comforting food, the dish has spread far beyond its regional origins. Breakfast pizza is now a national trend, with variations popping up on brunch menus, in restaurants, and even in the frozen food aisle.
Whether you’re savoring a slice of classic Midwest breakfast pizza from a gas station or experimenting with a gourmet version featuring avocado and prosciutto, one thing is clear: breakfast pizza is here to stay, and it’s no longer just a Midwest phenomenon.