There’s something undeniably satisfying about the sound of sizzling cheese as it melts and bubbles over a toasted English muffin. I often find myself reminiscing about lazy weekend afternoons when the craving for pizza strikes but the thought of fussing over dough feels overwhelming. That’s when these delightful English Muffin Pizzas come into play—an effortless way to bring a taste of Italy right to my kitchen in under twenty minutes.
One afternoon, while scavenging through my pantry for a quick fix, I unearthed some forgotten English muffins and a jar of pizza sauce. With a sprinkle of cheese and my favorite toppings, I transformed what could’ve been a boring snack into a fun and flavorful meal. It’s a culinary quick-fix that never fails to please, whether it’s for a cozy movie night or an impromptu gathering with friends.
Join me in whipping up these irresistible mini pizzas that are not only customizable but also a great way to reignite your passion for homemade food, leaving fast food far behind!
Why You'll Love This English Muffin Pizzas
- These English Muffin Pizzas are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for a quick meal any day of the week.
- The flavor combinations are endless, allowing you to customize each pizza with your favorite toppings.
- They are not only visually appealing with their golden-brown edges and bubbling cheese, but they also make for a fun cooking experience that can involve the whole family.
- In just twenty minutes, you can whip up a delicious dish that will surely delight anyone who tries it.
English Muffin Pizza Ingredients
• Prepare to create tasty bites!
For the Muffins
• English muffins – a perfect crispy base for your delicious pizzas.
For the Sauce
• Pizza sauce – choose your favorite jarred or homemade version for the best flavor.
For the Cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully and adds that classic cheesy goodness.
For the Toppings
• Toppings of your choice – get creative with pepperoni, bell peppers, or even olives to make your pizzas unique.
For Flavor Boost
• Dried oregano (optional) – adds an aromatic herbiness that complements the overall taste.
• Garlic powder (optional) – a dash adds a delightful kick to your pizzas.
For Garnish
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional) – a touch of greenery adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
These English Muffin Pizzas are sure to bring joy and warmth into your home-cooked meals!
How to Make English Muffin Pizzas
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows the pizzas to cook evenly and ensures the cheese melts beautifully.
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Arrange the split English muffins on a baking sheet, cut side facing up. Give each muffin a little space to crisp up nicely.
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Spoon pizza sauce onto each muffin half, spreading it evenly to the edges. Make sure to layer it generously for that rich flavor!
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Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. Cover each muffin well, allowing the cheese to bubble up during baking.
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Add your favorite toppings on top of the cheese. Be creative! From pepperoni to veggies, let your imagination run wild with combinations.
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Sprinkle dried oregano and garlic powder on top for added flavor, if desired. These seasonings will elevate the taste of your mini pizzas significantly.
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Bake the baking sheet in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the muffins are golden brown. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden hue.
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Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. This also allows the cheese to set a bit before you dive in.
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Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. This finishing touch adds a pop of freshness to your delightful creations.
Optional: Serve with a side of extra pizza sauce for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
English Muffin Pizzas Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these English Muffin Pizzas truly your own with these exciting twists!
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Whole Wheat Muffins: Swap regular muffins for whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. They still crisp up beautifully!
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Gluten-Free Muffins: Use gluten-free English muffins or even polenta rounds for a similar base without the gluten. Deliciously adaptable for all diets.
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Vegan: Replace mozzarella with dairy-free cheese and use a homemade or store-bought vegan pizza sauce. Tasty and guilt-free!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes on top for a bit of heat. Spice lovers will appreciate the fiery contrast!
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Pesto Delight: Try using pesto instead of pizza sauce for a fresh, herbal flavor base. Its vibrant taste takes these pizzas to a whole new level.
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Veggie Medley: Load up with roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or spinach for a wholesome and colorful twist. It adds both texture and nutrition!
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Breakfast Style: Turn them into breakfast pizzas by adding scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage. Brunch just got a whole lot better!
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Sweet Version: For a dessert twist, use sweetened cream cheese and top with sliced strawberries or chocolate spread. Who said pizza can’t be sweet?
Each variation allows you to explore textures and flavors, ensuring every bite is a delightful surprise!
Storage Tips for English Muffin Pizzas
Room Temperature: Enjoy your English Muffin Pizzas fresh right out of the oven! If you have leftovers, they can sit out for no more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them covered to maintain moisture.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your English Muffin Pizzas, wrap each in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly again.
Make Ahead Options
These English Muffin Pizzas are fantastic for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prep the muffin halves with pizza sauce and toppings up to 24 hours in advance. Simply arrange the muffins on a baking sheet and cover them tightly with plastic wrap to refrigerate, keeping them fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to bake, just add the mozzarella cheese (to ensure it stays melty and delicious) and pop them in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes. This way, you can have scrumptious, homemade mini pizzas ready with minimal effort, just as satisfying as if you made them from scratch on the spot!
What to Serve with English Muffin Pizzas?
Nothing elevates a cozy pizza night quite like the perfect side dishes.
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Crunchy Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the cheese.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery delights mingle wonderfully with the pizza’s flavors, making for a true comfort-food experience.
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Veggie Platter: Serve a colorful array of fresh cut veggies with hummus or ranch; they provide a crisp contrast to the pizzas.
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Homemade Chips: Try baked tortilla or potato chips seasoned with sea salt for a satisfying crunch alongside your cheesy morsels.
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Mini Meatballs: Juicy, savory meatballs offer a heartier accompaniment and can be dipped in extra pizza sauce for that perfect bite.
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Soda or Iced Tea: A refreshing sparkling soda or a glass of herbal iced tea pairs beautifully, balancing the rich flavors of your pizzas.
Elevate your meal with these delightful pairings that create a lovely dining experience!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect English Muffin Pizzas, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before baking to ensure even cooking.
- When spreading the pizza sauce, use a generous layer to maximize flavor and prevent the muffins from becoming dry.
- For an extra crispy texture, consider toasting the muffin halves lightly before adding toppings.
- Keep an eye on your pizzas while they bake, removing them when the cheese is bubbly and the muffins are golden brown for the best results.
English Muffin Pizzas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my English Muffin Pizzas?
Absolutely! When picking out ingredients, look for fresh English muffins that are free of dark spots and have a soft, yet sturdy texture. For toppings like vegetables, choose firm and colorful options—bell peppers and mushrooms should be crisp and fragrant. Fresh mozzarella makes a big difference, so opt for a block or ball if you can rather than pre-shredded for the best melt.
How should I store leftover English Muffin Pizzas?
Very! Place any leftover pizzas in an airtight container within 2 hours of baking to avoid spoilage. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re covered to maintain moisture, and reheat them in the oven to restore their crunch.
Can I freeze my English Muffin Pizzas?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each English Muffin Pizza tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent freezer burn. They can safely be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until they’re piping hot and the cheese is bubbly.
What should I do if my cheese isn’t melting properly?
Oh dear, let’s fix that! Ensure your oven is preheated before placing the pizzas inside—this is key for achieving that gorgeous, bubbly cheese. If you’re using low-moisture mozzarella, consider combining it with something creamier like fresh mozzarella. This can help with melting. Lastly, check that the cheese is generously sprinkled; a thin layer can prevent proper melting.
Are there any dietary considerations for English Muffin Pizzas?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, always check the labels on pre-made ingredients like pizza sauce and cheese for any potential allergens. For gluten-free diets, look for gluten-free English muffins, which many stores carry now. And, if you’re including toppings, make sure any meat or veggie options are suitable for the people you’re serving, such as ensuring pepperoni is free from allergens if necessary.
Can I make these English Muffin Pizzas vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute with vegan cheese and ensure your pizza sauce is free of animal products. Load up on fresh veggies like spinach, artichokes, and olives for tasty toppings. There are so many options to make this dish suitable for every dietary need while keeping it delicious!
English Muffin Pizzas
Ingredients
- 2 pieces English muffins split in half
- 1 cup Pizza sauce your favorite jarred or homemade version
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup Toppings of your choice such as pepperoni, bell peppers, or olives
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano optional
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder optional
- 1 tablespoon Fresh basil or parsley optional
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the split English muffins on a baking sheet, cut side facing up.
- Spoon pizza sauce onto each muffin half, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
- Add your favorite toppings on top of the cheese.
- Sprinkle dried oregano and garlic powder on top for added flavor, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
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