It’s pretty obvious I’m a pizza lover. Working with Mortadella Head, how can I not be?
And as a busy gal, I’m always on the lookout for easy weeknight recipes that satisfy my cravings without spending too much time in the kitchen.
One of my all-time favorite go-to meals is the English muffin pizza. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for busy nights.
When I was a kid, my aunts would always make sandwiches or pizzas on English muffins, and to this day, I find it to be a quick and easy alternative to regular pizza. And sometimes it’s healthier, too!
Today, I’m sharing my easy English muffin pizza recipe with you, along with some tips and alternatives for making it your own.
Ingredients and Basic Steps
The beauty of English muffin pizzas lies in their versatility. Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need:
- English muffin halves: Whole wheat or regular will do
- Tomato sauce or homemade pizza sauce
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded is best
- Favorite toppings: Pepperoni, bell peppers, green onions, etc.
- Olive oil: For brushing
- Tips for the Best English Muffin Pizzas
Let’s Get Started
First things first, you’ll need to preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Preheating is essential because it ensures that your pizzas cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown finish.
Next, grab your English muffins and split them into halves. If you prefer whole wheat for extra fiber, go for it! Toast these muffin halves lightly on a baking sheet. This step is crucial because toasting prevents them from getting too soggy once you add the sauce and toppings.
Once your muffin halves are toasted, brush each one with a bit of olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps the muffins crisp up nicely in the oven. A light sprinkle of garlic powder on top will give them an extra kick of flavor that pairs perfectly with the toppings.
Now comes the fun part: the sauce. Spread a tablespoon of your favorite pizza sauce or homemade tomato sauce on each muffin half. Be careful not to overload them – a tablespoon is usually just right to cover the surface without making them too saucy.
Next, it’s time to pile on the shredded mozzarella cheese. Be generous with it because, after all, cheese is one of the best parts of pizza! Make sure each muffin half is covered evenly.
For the toppings, this is where you can get creative. Whether you love mini pepperonis, bell peppers, green onions, or Italian sausage, add your favorite toppings on top of the cheese. If you’re like me and enjoy a variety of flavors, you might even mix and match to create different combinations on each muffin.
Once your pizzas are assembled, pop them into the preheated oven. Let them bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the muffins are golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to make sure they don’t overcook.
And that’s it!
Different Cooking Methods
- Air Fryer: For a quick snack, try cooking your English muffin pizzas in an air fryer at medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Toaster Oven: This is a great option for small batches or a quick lunch.
- Grill: For a smoky flavor, grill your English muffin pizzas over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
Topping Ideas
- Vegetarian: Bell peppers, green onions, spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and artichokes make great toppings. Try adding some fresh basil or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Meat Lovers: Italian sausage, mini pepperonis, cooked bacon, and diced ham are delicious options. For a spicy kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Cheese Varieties: Try using cheddar cheese, pepper jack, provolone, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Adding a bit of feta or goat cheese can also give a unique taste.
Healthy Twists
- Whole Wheat Muffins: Opt for whole wheat English muffins for more fiber and nutrients.
- Low-Calorie Options: For fewer calories, choose light mozzarella cheese and add plenty of vegetables. For a lower-fat option, use part-skim ricotta or cottage cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Look for gluten-free English muffins at your local grocery store. They work just as well and are perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Storing and Reheating
English muffin pizzas are not only a quick meal but also easy to store and reheat. Here’s how:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pizzas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place pizzas in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option, but the crust may not be as crisp.
Perfect for Any Occasion
English muffin pizzas are versatile enough to work for both a quick snack or a group event. Let’s dig in!
Quick Lunch or Snack
English muffin pizzas make an excellent quick lunch or an easy snack. They’re perfect for school lunches or as a hearty after-school treat for older kids.
Fun for Birthday Parties
Set up a pizza-making station at birthday parties where kids can create their own mini pizzas with their favorite toppings. It’s an interactive and fun activity that also serves as the meal.
Breakfast Pizzas
For a delicious breakfast twist, try making breakfast pizzas. Use a base of scrambled eggs and top with bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions. It’s a hearty and satisfying way to start the day.
Nutritional Information
When making English muffin pizzas, knowing the nutrient information for personal consumption is good. Using whole wheat English muffins, light mozzarella cheese, and plenty of vegetables can make this a healthy recipe option. For those on a specific calorie diet, choosing lower-calorie toppings and sauces can help manage daily values without sacrificing flavor.
English muffin pizzas are a fantastic and easy recipe for any pizza lover looking for a quick meal. You can have a delicious personal pizza ready in minutes with just a few basic ingredients and simple steps. Whether baked in the oven or cooked in an air fryer, these mini pizzas are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and variations, and savor the simplicity and flavor of this easy meal.
Print
Our Favorite Quick and Easy English Muffin Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
4 English muffins, split in half (whole wheat or regular)
1/2 cup pizza sauce or homemade tomato sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Olive oil, for brushing
Garlic powder, to taste
Your favorite toppings (e.g., mini pepperonis, bell peppers, green onions, Italian sausage)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Split the English muffins in half and toast them lightly on a baking sheet.
- Brush each toasted muffin half with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on each muffin half.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
- Add your favorite toppings on top of the cheese.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and enjoy!
