Mini Pizzas Recipe

English muffins: These serve as the base for your mini pizzas and give a nice, crunchy texture when toasted.

Pizza sauce: This is the flavorful spread that adds the classic pizza taste. You can find it in jars or cans at most grocery stores.

Mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts perfectly and gives that gooey, cheesy topping everyone loves.

Pepperoni slices: These add a spicy, savory kick and are a popular pizza topping.

Olives: Optional, but they bring a salty, tangy flavor that pairs well with cheese.

Bell peppers: Optional, these add a sweet crunch and bright color.

Onions: Optional, they give a little sharpness and extra flavor to your mini pizzas.

One of the most helpful moves in this Mini Pizzas Recipe is how to spread the pizza sauce evenly on each English muffin half. Doing this just right makes sure every bite has that yummy sauce flavor without making the muffin soggy or messy.

Here’s a simple way to spread the sauce like a pro:

1. Use the back of a spoon to scoop up a small amount of pizza sauce—about a tablespoon or so.
2. Start spreading the sauce in the center of the muffin half.
3. Gently move the spoon in small circles, pushing the sauce toward the edges but leaving a tiny border around the rim. This helps keep the toppings from sliding off.
4. If you have too much sauce, just scoop some back into the jar or bowl. You want a nice thin layer, not a puddle.

Spreading the sauce this way makes baking smoother because the cheese melts evenly on top, and the muffin stays just the right texture—not soggy or dry. Plus, it helps the pepperoni and other toppings stick better, so your mini pizzas look and taste great.

When I first made these, I piled on too much sauce because I thought more would be better. But the muffins got soggy and the cheese didn’t melt right. Now I always remember to spread it thin and even—it’s a small step that makes a big difference. Also, if you’re in a hurry, using a small spoon instead of a knife to spread the sauce saves time and keeps things neat.

• english muffins - Substitute with bagels: Bagels provide a similar texture and can hold toppings well.

• english muffins - Substitute with pita bread: Pita bread offers a slightly different texture but works well as a pizza base.

• pizza sauce - Substitute with marinara sauce: Marinara sauce has a similar flavor profile and consistency.

• pizza sauce - Substitute with tomato paste mixed with herbs: This mixture can mimic the taste of pizza sauce.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar melts well and adds a different but delicious flavor.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese can be used.

• pepperoni slices - Substitute with turkey pepperoni: Turkey pepperoni is a leaner alternative with a similar taste.

• pepperoni slices - Substitute with vegetarian pepperoni: For a vegetarian option, use plant-based pepperoni.

• olives - Substitute with capers: Capers provide a similar briny flavor.

• bell peppers - Substitute with zucchini slices: Zucchini offers a similar crunch and can be easily sliced.

• onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used in place of onions.

• Allow the mini pizzas to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the mini pizzas in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, individually wrap each mini pizza in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain their shape and prevents freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped mini pizzas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. This initial freezing step ensures they don't stick together.
• Once frozen, transfer the mini pizzas to a large freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the desired number of mini pizzas from the freezer and unwrap them.
• Place the mini pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the mini pizzas are heated through.
• For a quicker reheating option, you can also use a microwave. Place the mini pizzas on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• If you prefer a crispier crust, consider reheating the mini pizzas in a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover mini pizzas on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly again.

• Use a toaster oven for a quick reheat. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the mini pizzas directly on the rack or on a small baking tray. Toast for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is gooey and the edges are slightly crispy.

• For a fast and convenient method, use the microwave. Place the mini pizzas on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, checking to ensure the cheese is melted.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the mini pizzas in the basket in a single layer. Air fry for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the muffin base is crispy.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the mini pizzas in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the muffin is warmed through.

• Baking sheet: A flat metal tray used to hold the English muffins while they bake in the oven.

• Oven: The appliance used to preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake the mini pizzas.

• Spoon: Used to spread the pizza sauce evenly on each muffin half.

• Knife: Useful for splitting the English muffins in half.

• Measuring cup: Ensures accurate measurement of the pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.

• Cooling rack: Allows the mini pizzas to cool evenly after baking.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing any optional toppings like olives, bell peppers, and onions.

• Cheese grater: If you are shredding mozzarella cheese from a block, this tool will be necessary.

Pre-prep ingredients: Have all your english muffins, pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni slices ready before starting.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded mozzarella cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Opt for mini pepperoni: Use mini pepperoni slices to avoid the need for cutting larger slices.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to make cleanup easier.

Batch preparation: Assemble multiple mini pizzas at once to save time during baking.