As I pulled the fragrant, golden pizza out of the oven, a wave of excitement washed over me. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and crisp greens drew me in; I could hardly wait to dig in! Today, I’m thrilled to share my Easy Shakshuka Breakfast Pizza—an extraordinary twist on a beloved classic that’s not only visually stunning but also a breeze to prepare. This delightful recipe works wonders for brunch gatherings or those leisurely weekend mornings when you crave something special without the fuss. Topped with a luscious tomato sauce, runny eggs, and crumbled feta, you’ll discover two irresistible perks: it’s both vegetarian-friendly and bursting with flavor that’ll leave your taste buds dancing. Curious how such a simple dish can bring so much joy to your mornings? Let’s dive into this delicious experience together!
Why is Grilled Shakshuka Pizza a Must-Try?
Vibrant Flavors: Your taste buds will thank you as the combination of smoky tomatoes, fresh herbs, and tangy feta creates a delicious explosion of flavor.
Easy to Make: This recipe doesn’t require culinary expertise; it’s a straightforward process that even beginners can master.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual brunch or a cozy family breakfast, this pizza impresses everyone at the table.
Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out ingredients or add proteins to make it your own! Want to jazz it up? Add some cooked sausage or experiment with different cheeses.
Vegetarian Delight: This dish is a fantastic vegetarian option, satisfying even the meat lovers in your life.
With all these flavors packed into a single dish, it’s like bringing a slice of global cuisine right to your home. Want more delicious brunch ideas? Check out my Spicy Grilled Cheese or Mediterranean Grilled Lamb for inspiration!
Grilled Shakshuka Pizza Ingredients
For the Pizza Base
• Pizza Dough – You can either make it from scratch or use store-bought for convenience.
For the Tomato Sauce
• Campari Tomatoes (10, quartered) – These add sweetness and juiciness; you can substitute with other ripe varieties if needed.
• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil (2 tbsp) – Ideal for sautéing vegetables; feel free to use any neutral oil you have on hand.
• Sweet Peppers (3, diced) – They provide sweetness and a pop of color; you can swap in regular bell peppers if you prefer.
• Leeks (2, diced) – They contribute a mild onion flavor; onions or shallots can work as a substitute.
• Garlic Cloves (2, minced) – Fresh garlic enhances flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch for convenience.
• Cumin Powder (1 tsp) – Adds depth to the sauce; coriander can be a good alternative.
• Cumin Seeds (½ tsp) – For extra flavor; if unavailable, they can be skipped.
• Harissa Powder (1 tsp) – This provides a subtle heat; use paprika or chili powder if you prefer less spice.
• Salt (½ tsp, plus a pinch) – Essential for enhancing all flavors; adjust to your taste.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp, plus a pinch) – A seasoning staple; freshly ground is preferable for best flavor.
• Sugar (½ tsp) – Helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes; optional based on your tomato’s natural sweetness.
For Topping
• Feta Cheese (⅓ cup, crumbled) – Adds a tangy richness to the dish; consider goat cheese for a different flavor twist.
• Eggs (4) – The centerpiece of shakshuka; ensure they’re runny after baking for the best texture.
• Parsley (¼ cup, coarsely chopped) – This fresh garnish brightens the dish; substitute cilantro or omit entirely if you’d like.
For Final Touches
• Hot Sauce – A delightful optional addition for those who enjoy an extra kick!
With these Grilled Shakshuka Pizza ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a breakfast masterpiece that’s sure to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Shakshuka Pizza
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 550°F (or the highest setting) for at least 30 minutes. This high temperature is key to achieving that crispy crust for your Grilled Shakshuka Pizza. Make sure the rack is in the center of the oven to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a medium-sized skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced leeks, sweet peppers, and minced garlic, sautéing for about 10 minutes until the leeks are soft and lightly golden. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Next, stir in the quartered Campari tomatoes and a pinch of sugar to balance their acidity. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing it to thicken while stirring occasionally. The sauce should become fragrant and vibrant, creating the base for your Grilled Shakshuka Pizza.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
While the sauce thickens, roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, typically around ¼ inch. Transfer the dough onto a baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone, ensuring it’s laid out evenly to create a sturdy base for your delicious toppings.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Spread the thickened tomato sauce mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a slight border for the crust. Make four small wells in the sauce and gently crack an egg into each well, ensuring that the eggs are nestled securely for even cooking during baking.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Sprinkle ⅓ cup of crumbled feta cheese over the pizza, followed by an additional sprinkle of salt and black pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavors of your Grilled Shakshuka Pizza and create a delightful cheesy layer as it melts in the oven.
Step 7: Bake the Pizza
Now, place your assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the egg whites are set, but the yolks remain runny. Keep an eye on the pizza, as the edges should be golden brown and crispy by the end of the baking time.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the pizza is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with a generous handful of coarsely chopped parsley and drizzle with hot sauce if desired. Slice up your Grilled Shakshuka Pizza and serve it warm, ready to delight everyone at the table!
Expert Tips for Grilled Shakshuka Pizza
Perfect Egg Yolks: To ensure your yolks are runny, bake the pizza for 5 minutes with just the sauce before adding the eggs. This helps maintain the desired texture.
Crispy Crust: Use a preheated pizza stone if possible. This creates an evenly baked, crispy crust, enhancing the overall experience of your Grilled Shakshuka Pizza.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Incorporate different vegetables or proteins like cooked sausage for a flavor boost, while still keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
Dough Thickness: Roll your pizza dough to about ¼ inch thick; this thickness allows for a nice balance between a soft center and crispy edges.
Storage Tips: While best served fresh, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the eggs from overcooking and drying out.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Shakshuka Breakfast Pizzas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal prep! You can prepare the tomato sauce and sautéed vegetables up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy your pizza, roll out the dough and spread the pre-prepared sauce evenly over it. Create wells for the eggs and sprinkle with feta, then bake as directed. To maintain quality, ensure that the eggs are added just before baking to keep them fresh and runny. Enjoy a delightful breakfast with minimal morning effort, all while impressing your family!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Shakshuka Pizza
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve the runny egg texture.
Freezer: Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the assembled pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake the frozen pizza directly from the freezer at 450°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the egg is cooked and the crust is golden.
Serving Suggestions: Garnish with fresh parsley and drizzle with hot sauce after reheating to bring back that vibrant flavor of your Grilled Shakshuka Pizza.
Grilled Shakshuka Pizza Variations
Feel free to customize this delightful dish to your heart’s content and discover tantalizing new flavors!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra heat boost.
- Veggie-Loaded: Incorporate sautéed spinach or kale before baking for additional nutrients and vibrant color.
- Herby Twist: Swap parsley for fresh basil or mint to add a refreshing twist that brightens the dish.
- Protein-Packed: Include cooked chorizo or Italian sausage for those who enjoy a hearty, meaty option. The added richness complements the tangy sauce beautifully.
- Egg Substitution: Try adding scrambled eggs instead of the traditional runny eggs for a different texture experience. It creates a lovely creamy filling throughout.
- Sauce Variation: For an Italian spin, replace the tomato sauce with a pesto base, enhancing the overall flavor profile with aromatic herbs.
- Crust Options: Use cauliflower crust or whole wheat dough for a healthier take on your pizza base, making it gluten-free or more nutritious.
With these variations, your Grilled Shakshuka Pizza can cater to every palate at the table. Looking for more exciting flavor-inspired recipes? Don’t miss my yummy Mexican Pizza or a satisfying Grilled Chicken Avocado for meal inspiration!
What to Serve with Easy Shakshuka Breakfast Pizza
Imagine a beautifully laid brunch table, filled with vibrant side dishes that perfectly complement the bold flavors of your Shakshuka Breakfast Pizza.
Herbed Greek Yogurt: A dollop of this creamy topping enhances the pizza’s flavors while adding a fresh, tangy touch. It’s the perfect cooling contrast to the spices in your dish.
Warm Pita Bread: Soft and fluffy pita is great for scooping up every delicious bite of your pizza. They create a wonderful textural element when combined with the runny eggs.
Mediterranean Salad: Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy olives alongside a lemony dressing brighten your plate and provide a refreshing crunch. This salad is something your taste buds will thank you for!
Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy edges and fluffy centers make for a satisfying side. The aromatic garlic complements the pizza wonderfully, creating a rustic touch to your brunch spread.
Spiced Chai Latte: A warm, spiced beverage pairs wonderfully with your pizza, as the rich flavors balance the dish’s savory notes, making for a cozy morning experience.
Indulge in these delightful complements that elevate a simple meal into a feast, ready to impress your family and friends.
Grilled Shakshuka Pizza Recipe FAQs
What kind of tomatoes should I use for Shakshuka Pizza?
Using Campari tomatoes is ideal for this dish due to their sweetness and juiciness; however, you can substitute them with other ripe varieties like Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes if necessary. Ensure they are plump and firm with no dark spots to maximize flavor in your pizza sauce.
How should I store leftovers of Grilled Shakshuka Pizza?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza in the oven or microwave. For the best result, warm it in the oven to maintain the runny eggs; approximately 10-15 minutes at 350°F should suffice until heated through.
Can I freeze the assembled pizza?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake the frozen pizza directly in a preheated oven at 450°F for 15-20 minutes until the egg is cooked, and the crust is golden.
How can I prevent the egg yolks from cooking through?
To ensure the egg yolks remain runny, I recommend giving the pizza a 5-minute head start in the oven with just the tomato sauce before adding the eggs. This technique helps set the crust and saves the eggs from cooking too long, providing that lovely gooey texture you desire.
Are there any dietary considerations with Shakshuka Pizza?
Yes! This Grilled Shakshuka Pizza is vegetarian-friendly, making it an excellent choice for non-meat eaters. However, if you or your guests have dairy allergies, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply omit the feta. Always check ingredient labels to accommodate dietary needs.
What can I do if my dough is too thick?
If your dough ends up thicker than the desired ¼ inch, which could lead to undercooked centers, simply pre-bake the crust for about 5 minutes before adding your toppings. This step helps create a crispy base while giving it a head start on cooking through.
Grilled Shakshuka Pizza: A Flavor-Packed Breakfast Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 550°F (or the highest setting) for at least 30 minutes for a crispy crust.
- In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add leeks, sweet peppers, and garlic, and sauté for about 10 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the quartered tomatoes and a pinch of sugar. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Transfer to a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone.
- Spread the thickened tomato sauce evenly over the dough. Make four wells and crack an egg into each.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the pizza and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until egg whites are set and yolks are runny.
- Once baked, let cool for a minute, garnish with parsley, and drizzle with hot sauce if desired.
