Italian Breakfast Bombs are delicious little pastries filled with eggs, cheese, and tasty Italian meats. They’re perfect for a quick meal any time of day!
Making these is like giving your breakfast a fun twist! I love how they’re easy to grab, and they make my mornings feel special—who doesn’t love a little breakfast surprise?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your dough. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but check that it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
Active Dry Yeast: Fresh yeast can substitute this if you have it on hand. Just remember to adjust the amount; use about twice as much fresh yeast.
Italian Sausage: If you’re looking for a healthier choice, turkey or chicken sausage works great too. For a meatless option, try using cooked mushrooms or a plant-based sausage.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that melty goodness, but Parmesan adds flavor. You can substitute with provolone or gouda for a different taste.
How Do You Get Perfectly Rounded Dough Balls?
Shaping dough balls might seem tricky, but it’s all about technique. Here’s a simple method to ensure they are perfectly round without tearing:
- After rolling out each piece of dough, hold it in your hand with your palm facing up and gently stretch the edges over the filling.
- Gather the edges toward the center, pinching them together to seal. If any dough tears, press it back together gently.
- Place seam side down on the baking sheet to keep them sealed while baking.
Practice makes perfect! The more you shape, the easier it becomes.
How to Make Italian Breakfast Bombs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling:
- 8 large eggs (for stuffing)
- 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled and cooled
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1 hour for the dough to rise. The total cooking time is around 25-30 minutes. So, you can have these delightful breakfast bombs ready in about 1 hour and 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy on top. This means your yeast is good! In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture along with the olive oil, and mix until a dough starts to form.
2. Kneading the Dough:
Now, transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. This part is a fun workout for your arms! Once it’s ready, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. Your kitchen will smell delightful!
3. Prepare the Eggs:
While your dough is rising, bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully lower the eggs into the boiling water and let them cook for 6-7 minutes for soft-boiled eggs with a slightly runny yolk. Once done, transfer them to an ice bath to cool. When cool, peel them carefully; be gentle to avoid breaking them!
4. Assemble the Bombs:
Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a flat circle that’s large enough to wrap around an egg. Place a soft-boiled egg in the center, add a spoonful of crumbled Italian sausage and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Gently wrap the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal it well.
5. Place the Bombs on a Baking Sheet:
Now, carefully place the stuffed balls seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. They need to rest for a moment before baking!
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a little salt and pepper. This will give your breakfast bombs an aromatic and delicious topping! Brush this mixture generously over each dough ball and sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top.
7. Bake:
Time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. Once you see that lovely golden color, you know they’re ready!
8. Serve:
Take the bombs out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy that soft outer crust with a delightful inside of cheesy egg and sausage—it’s a hearty breakfast treat!
These Italian Breakfast Bombs are sure to impress and are a delightful start to your day or a fun brunch option! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even leave it out for a vegetarian option. Cooked mushrooms make a great meat alternative!
What If I Want to Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the dough and filling in advance! Assemble the bombs and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just brush with the topping and bake straight from the fridge.
Can I Freeze Italian Breakfast Bombs?
Yes, you can! After baking and cooling, individually wrap each bomb and store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
What Can I Serve These With?
They pair perfectly with marinara sauce for dipping, but you can also serve them with salsa, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack!
