Egg-topped pizzas are a delicious, gourmet twist on traditional pizza, combining the crispy, cheesy goodness of a classic pie with the rich, creamy texture of a perfectly cooked egg. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, adding an egg to your pizza enhances the flavors and brings a unique culinary experience to the table.
From the traditional Italian Pizza alla Bismarck to modern creations like spicy chorizo and egg pizza or shakshuka-inspired flatbreads, there are endless ways to enjoy this delicious combination. The key to perfecting egg-topped pizza is knowing when to add the egg, what toppings work best, and how to bake it properly for a golden, runny yolk or a fully set egg—whichever you prefer!
In this guide, we’ll explore:
✔ The origins and history of egg-topped pizzas.
✔ Best ingredients and techniques for making the perfect egg pizza.
✔ Classic and creative recipes that you can try at home.
✔ Common mistakes to avoid when baking with eggs.
✔ Serving ideas and beverage pairings to elevate your meal.
So, whether you’re a pizza lover looking for a new twist or a home chef ready to experiment with flavors, this guide will help you master the perfect egg-topped pizza!
Table of Contents
The Appeal of Egg-Topped Pizzas
Adding eggs to pizza might seem unconventional, but the combination of crispy crust, melted cheese, and creamy egg yolk creates an irresistible texture and flavor contrast. Here’s why eggs make the perfect pizza topping:
1. Rich, Buttery Flavor
The silky yolk acts like a natural sauce, blending into the toppings and adding a buttery, indulgent taste.
2. Nutritional Benefits
Eggs are packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to your pizza.
3. Versatile Cooking Styles
- A runny yolk creates a creamy, luxurious bite.
- A fully set egg adds heartiness without the mess.
- Scrambled eggs work well for breakfast pizza variations.
4. Works with Any Type of Pizza
From classic Italian pizzas to breakfast-style pies, eggs complement a variety of ingredients, including:
✔ Savory meats like bacon, prosciutto, and chorizo.
✔ Vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms.
✔ Cheeses like mozzarella, feta, and parmesan.
The History of Egg-Topped Pizzas
Egg-topped pizzas aren’t a modern food trend—they’ve been enjoyed for centuries in different cultures.
1. Italian Origins—Pizza alla Bismarck
One of the most famous traditional egg pizzas is Pizza alla Bismarck, named after Otto von Bismarck, the German chancellor known for his love of eggs. This pizza is typically topped with prosciutto, arugula, and a perfectly baked egg.
2. French Influence—Tarte Flambée with Eggs
In France, Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche), an Alsatian-style flatbread, is often topped with crème fraîche, onions, bacon, and eggs for a savory, creamy experience.
3. Middle Eastern Inspiration—Shakshuka Pizza
Inspired by shakshuka, a North African dish made with poached eggs in a spiced tomato sauce, shakshuka pizza features a spicy, tangy base with baked eggs and crumbled feta.
4. Modern Trends—Breakfast and Gourmet Egg Pizzas
In recent years, chefs and home cooks have experimented with egg-topped pizzas, creating unique versions like:
✔ Breakfast pizzas with bacon, sausage, and scrambled eggs.
✔ Gourmet pizzas with truffle oil, smoked salmon, and quail eggs.
✔ Spicy pizzas featuring chorizo, jalapeños, and runny yolks.
Why You Should Try an Egg-Topped Pizza
✔ Adds protein and richness without overpowering other flavors.
✔ Works well with both classic and creative toppings.
✔ Easy to customize—whether you like a soft yolk or a fully cooked egg.
✔ Brings international flavors into a simple homemade pizza.
Now that we’ve covered the history and appeal of egg-topped pizzas, let’s move on to the best ingredients and step-by-step recipes for making the perfect egg pizza at home.
Now that we understand the appeal and history of egg-topped pizzas, it’s time to get cooking! In this section, we’ll explore classic recipes, including the traditional Pizza alla Bismarck, breakfast egg pizza, spicy chorizo pizza, and a veggie-loaded egg pizza. Each recipe is carefully designed to ensure a perfectly cooked egg, rich flavors, and a crispy crust.
1. Traditional Italian Pizza alla Bismarck
A classic Italian egg pizza, Pizza alla Bismarck is made with prosciutto, arugula, parmesan, and a perfectly baked egg.
Ingredients:
✔ 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
✔ ½ cup tomato sauce
✔ 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
✔ 2-3 slices prosciutto
✔ 1 large egg
✔ ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
✔ ½ cup fresh arugula
✔ 1 tbsp olive oil
✔ Black pepper and red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
2️⃣ Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it onto a sheet of parchment paper.
3️⃣ Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border for the crust.
4️⃣ Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce, ensuring an even layer.
5️⃣ Bake the pizza for 7 minutes, then carefully remove it from the oven.
6️⃣ Crack an egg into the center of the pizza, then return it to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the egg white is set but the yolk remains runny.
7️⃣ Remove from the oven and top with prosciutto, arugula, and parmesan. Drizzle with olive oil and black pepper before serving.
🔹 Pro Tip: If you prefer a fully set egg, leave the pizza in the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
2. Breakfast Egg Pizza with Bacon and Cheddar
This morning-friendly pizza combines crispy bacon, gooey cheddar, and eggs for a delicious breakfast twist.
Ingredients:
✔ 1 ball of pizza dough
✔ ½ cup cream sauce (or substitute with sour cream)
✔ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
✔ ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
✔ 2 large eggs
✔ 1 tbsp chopped chives
✔ Black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2️⃣ Roll out the pizza dough and transfer it to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
3️⃣ Spread the cream sauce evenly across the dough, then top with cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
4️⃣ Bake for 8 minutes, then carefully remove from the oven.
5️⃣ Crack the eggs onto the pizza and return to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set.
6️⃣ Sprinkle with chopped chives and black pepper, then slice and serve!
🔹 Pro Tip: If you prefer scrambled eggs, cook them separately and add them after baking.
3. Spicy Chorizo and Egg Pizza
For those who love bold flavors, this spicy chorizo pizza combines smoky chorizo, gooey cheese, and a perfectly baked egg.
Ingredients:
✔ 1 ball of pizza dough
✔ ½ cup spicy tomato sauce (add red pepper flakes for extra heat)
✔ 1 cup shredded mozzarella
✔ ½ cup cooked chorizo, crumbled
✔ 1 large egg
✔ ½ tsp smoked paprika
✔ 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2️⃣ Roll out the pizza dough and place it on a floured surface.
3️⃣ Spread the spicy tomato sauce evenly over the dough, then top with mozzarella cheese and cooked chorizo.
4️⃣ Bake for 7 minutes, then remove from the oven and crack an egg in the center.
5️⃣ Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the egg white is set.
6️⃣ Sprinkle with smoked paprika and fresh cilantro before serving.
🔹 Pro Tip: For a charred crust, use a pizza stone and bake on the lowest rack.
4. Veggie Lovers’ Egg Pizza
For a healthier, vegetarian option, this pizza is loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a perfectly baked egg.
Ingredients:
✔ 1 ball of pizza dough
✔ ½ cup pesto sauce
✔ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
✔ ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
✔ ½ cup sautéed mushrooms
✔ ½ cup baby spinach
✔ 1 large egg
✔ 1 tbsp parmesan cheese
✔ 1 tbsp basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2️⃣ Roll out the pizza dough and transfer it to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3️⃣ Spread the pesto sauce over the dough, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
4️⃣ Top with cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and spinach, then bake for 7 minutes.
5️⃣ Crack an egg onto the pizza and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the egg is cooked to your liking.
6️⃣ Remove from the oven and sprinkle with parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.
🔹 Pro Tip: If your egg yolk starts cooking too fast, lightly cover the pizza with foil.
Final Thoughts on Egg-Topped Pizza Recipes
✔ Simple yet gourmet—elevates your homemade pizza game.
✔ Perfect for any time of day—breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
✔ Customizable flavors—Add meats, veggies, or sauces to suit your taste.
Now that you have these delicious recipes, let’s move on to the best cooking techniques for achieving the perfect egg-topped pizza every time!
Now that we have covered delicious egg-topped pizza recipes, it’s time to focus on the best cooking techniques to achieve the perfect crispy crust, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked egg. Regardless of your preference for a runny yolk or fully set eggs, mastering the correct oven temperature, timing, and baking methods is crucial.
1. When to Add the Egg to the Pizza?
One of the biggest challenges in making egg-topped pizza is timing—adding the egg too early can result in an overcooked yolk, while adding it too late might leave the egg undercooked.
Best Timing for Adding the Egg:
✔ Runny YolEgg—ny-Side Up Style) – Add the egg 5-7 minutes before the pizza is done baking.
✔ Fully Set Egg – Add the egg right after the pizza goes into the oven.
✔ Scrambled Eggs—Cook separately and sprinkle on the pizza after baking.
🔹 Pro Tip: If you’re making multiple eggs on one pizza, crack them into small bowls first, then gently pour them onto the pizza to prevent breaking the yolks.
2. Ideal Oven Temperature for Egg-Topped Pizzas
✔ 475°F (245°C) – Best for crispy crusts and quick cooking.
✔ 450°F (230°C) – Ideal for a balanced bake without burning the toppings.
✔ 400°F (200°C)—Perfect for deep-dish or thicker crusts that need more time to cook.
🔹 Pro Tip: If your oven runs hot, bake at 450°F and rotate the pizza halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
3. How to Prevent a Runny or Overcooked Egg?
Cooking an egg on pizza can be tricky—too much heat and it overcooks, too little and it stays raw. Follow these tips for the perfect consistency:
For a Runny, Golden Yolk:
✔ Crack the egg onto the pizza halfway through baking (about 5-7 minutes before it’s done).
✔ Cover the pizza loosely with foil if the top is cooking too fast.
✔ Use the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness while keeping the yolk soft.
For a Fully Cooked Egg:
✔ Crack the egg at the start of baking and cook the pizza for the full baking time.
✔ Bake at a lower temperature (400°F) for 15-18 minutes for even cooking.
✔ Pierce the yolk with a toothpick before baking to help it set faster.
🔹 Pro Tip: If your egg whites aren’t fully cooked but your crust is done, turn off the oven and let the pizza sit for 2-3 extra minutes—the residual heat will finish cooking the egg without overcooking the yolk.
4. Should You Pre-Cook the Egg Before Adding It to Pizza?
Some people prefer pre-cooking the egg slightly before adding it to the pizza. Here’s when it works best:
✔ If you want soft-boiled eggs on pizza, cook the eggs separately and add them after baking.
✔ If you’re making a breakfast pizza with scrambled eggs, cook them first and sprinkle them over the pizza after baking.
✔ If your oven temperature is too high and eggs keep overcooking, pre-poach the eggs and place them on the pizza after baking.
🔹 Pro Tip: For a crispy texture, bake the pizza with the egg, but for a softer, creamier texture, add a pre-cooked egg after baking.
5. Using a Pizza Stone vs. Baking Sheet for Egg-Topped Pizzas
✔ Pizza Stone—Helps achieve a crispy, pizzeria-style crust by evenly distributing heat.
✔ Baking Sheet—A great option for a thicker, softer crust.
✔ Cast Iron Skillet—Works well for deep-dish egg pizzas.
🔹 Pro Tip: If using a pizza stone, preheat it for at least 30 minutes before baking to get the best crust texture.
6. Can You Make Egg-Topped Pizza on a Grill?
Yes! Grilling pizza gives it a smoky flavor and crispy texture. Here’s how to do it:
How to Grill an Egg-Topped Pizza:
1️⃣ Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F-450°F).
2️⃣ Roll out the pizza dough and place it directly on the grill grates for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden.
3️⃣ Flip the dough, then add toppings and cheese.
4️⃣ Crack the egg on top and close the grill lid.
5️⃣ Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the egg is set and the cheese is melted.
🔹 Pro Tip: If you’re worried about the egg spilling off, create a small well in the dough before cracking the egg in.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Egg-Topped Pizzas
🚫 Adding the egg too early—The yolk will overcook and turn chalky.
🚫 Using too much cheese can prevent the egg from cooking evenly.
🚫 Baking at too low a temperature—The egg won’t set properly, and the crust won’t crisp up.
🚫 Forgetting to preheat the oven—A cold oven results in uneven baking.
🚫 Not using fresh eggs—older eggs have thinner whites and won’t hold their shape well on pizza.
Final Thoughts on Cooking the Perfect Egg-Topped Pizza
✔ Timing is key—add the egg at the right moment for a perfect consistency.
✔ Use high heat for crispy crust and fully cooked toppings.
✔ Experiment with different baking methods—stone, sheet, or grill.
✔ Control the egg texture—broil for a soft yolk, bake longer for a set yolk.
Now that you have mastered the best cooking techniques, let’s explore innovative variations and serving ideas to elevate your egg-topped pizza to new heights!
Now that we’ve covered classic recipes and expert cooking techniques, let’s explore creative variations of egg-topped pizzas, the best side dishes and drinks to pair with them, and answers to common frequently asked questions (FAQs). Whether you want a gourmet twist, a healthier version, or a plant-based alternative, there’s an egg-topped pizza for everyone!
1. Creative Variations of Egg-Topped Pizzas
If you love experimenting with flavors, try these unique egg pizza variations inspired by different cuisines:
1. French-Inspired Egg Pizza with Crème Fraîche & Smoked Salmon
A luxurious, brunch-friendly pizza with a creamy base and rich toppings.
✔ Base: Crème fraîche instead of tomato sauce.
✔ Toppings: Smoked salmon, capers, red onions, and an egg.
✔ After Baking: Add fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon.
🔹 Why You’ll Love It: The creamy base and salty salmon pair beautifully with a runny yolk.
2. Middle Eastern-Inspired Shakshuka Pizza
Inspired by the classic shakshuka dish, this pcrumbled a spicy, savory kick.
✔ Base: Spiced tomato sauce (with cumin, paprika, and chili flakes).
✔ Toppings: Crumbled feta, roasted red peppers, and eggs.
✔ After Baking: Add fresh cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil.
🔹 Why You’ll Love It: A delicious fusion of bold spices and creamy eggs.
3. Keto-Friendly Egg Pizza (Low-Carb Alternative)
For those following a low-carb diet, this egg pizza uses a grain-free crust.
✔ Base: Cauliflower or almond flour pizza crust.
✔ Toppings: Spinach, mozzarella, parmesan, and eggs.
✔ After Baking: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat.
🔹 Why You’ll Love It: A healthy, high-protein alternative that’s just as satisfying as a traditional pizza.
4. Vegan Egg Pizza (With Egg Alternatives)
A fully plant-based egg pizza using vegan egg substitutes.
✔ Base: Pesto or dairy-free tomato sauce.
✔ Toppings: Roasted vegetables, vegan cheese, and tofu scramble.
✔ After Baking: Drizzle with tahini or cashew cream.
🔹 Why You’ll Love It: A flavorful and nutritious way to enjoy an egg-style pizza without animal products.
2. Best Side Dishes and Pairings for Egg-Topped Pizzas
A great pizza deserves the perfect sides and drinks. Here’s what to serve with your egg-topped pizza:
1. Best Side Dishes
✔ Arugula Salad—Light and peppery, balances out the richness of the egg.
✔ Garlic Roasted Potatoes—A crispy, hearty side dish.
✔ Grilled Vegetables—Complements the flavors of a gourmet pizza.
2. Best Wine Pairings
✔ White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs well with creamy egg-topped pizzas.
✔ Red Wine: A light-bodied Pinot Noir or Grenache enhances savory flavors.
✔ Sparkling Wine: Prosecco or Champagne balances the richness of the yolk.
3. Best Dipping Sauces
✔ Garlic Aioli—Adds a creamy, garlicky kick.
✔ Spicy Mayo—Perfect for a bold, flavorful touch.
✔ Balsamic Glaze—A drizzle of sweetness enhances the saltiness of toppings.
3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How Do You Keep the Egg from Running Off the Pizza?
✔ Create a small well in the cheese or toppings before adding the egg.
Gently break the egg into the center of the pizza.
✔ If needed, use mozzarella “barriers” around the egg to keep it in place.
2. What’s the Best Type of Egg for Pizza?
✔ Fresh, organic eggs work best because their yolks hold their shape better.
✔ Pasture-raised eggs have richer, deeper-colored yolks, adding extra flavor.
✔ Quail eggs can be used for mini egg pizzas or multiple egg toppings.
3. Can You Make Egg-Topped Pizza on a Grill?
✔ Yes! Use a medium-high heat (400°F-450°F) and a pizza stone.
✔ Cook the crust first, flip it, then add toppings and the egg.
✔ Close the grill lid and cook for 5-7 minutes until the egg is set.
4. Can I Use Scrambled Eggs Instead of Whole Eggs?
✔ Absolutely! Scramble the eggs separately and add them after baking.
✔ Works best for breakfast pizzas with bacon, sausage, or cheddar cheese.
5. How Do You Store and Reheat Egg-Topped Pizza?
✔ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain the crust’s crispiness.
✔ Avoid microwaving—it can overcook the egg and make the crust soggy.
Final Thoughts on Egg-Topped Pizzas
Eggs elevate pizza by contributing a rich, creamy texture.
✔ Perfect for any meal—breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
✔ Endless variations—try different sauces, cheeses, and toppings.
✔ Easy to customize—whether you like a runny yolk or a fully cooked egg.
Now that you have the knowledge, it’s time to start baking! Try one of these delicious recipes, experiment with new flavors, and enjoy the gourmet magic of egg-topped pizzas!