English Muffin Pizza
English Muffin Pizza is the perfect solution for those nights when you crave a quick, delicious meal that feels a bit indulgent but is still fun to make. With its crispy edges and gooey cheese, this recipe is a favorite for both kids and adults alike. The best part? You can customize your toppings to match your mood or use up whatever ingredients you have in your pantry. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to bring smiles around the dinner table!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
English Muffin Pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Whether you’re preparing a snack for yourself, hosting a casual gathering, or looking for a fun cooking activity with the kids, this recipe checks all the boxes. The simplicity of using English muffins as a base means you can whip up individual pizzas in no time. Plus, they bake up perfectly crispy and golden, making them irresistible. You’ll love the versatility of this recipe, as it allows for creativity with toppings, making every pizza unique!
Gather These Ingredients
To create your own delicious English Muffin Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 English muffins (split in half) – The base of your pizza, providing a sturdy and delicious foundation.
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade) – This adds a burst of flavor and moisture.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded) – The star ingredient for that gooey, melty goodness.
- Toppings of your choice (such as pepperoni, olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, etc.) – Get creative and personalize your pizzas!
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A sprinkle to enhance the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For an irresistible aroma and taste.
- Olive oil (for drizzling) – To add richness and help achieve a golden crust.
Must-Have Equipment
Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following equipment:
- Baking sheet – A sturdy surface to hold your pizzas as they bake.
- Parchment paper (optional) – For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Spatula – For lifting your pizzas off the baking sheet.
- Oven mitts – Safety first; protect your hands when removing hot items from the oven!
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
English Muffin Pizza: From Prep to Plate
Creating your English Muffin Pizza is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these steps for a delightful outcome:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your English muffins will bake evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffins
While the oven is preheating, split your English muffins in half. You should have eight halves ready to go. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet. If you’d like, you can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce onto each muffin half. Use the back of the spoon to spread it evenly, leaving a small border around the edges for that delicious crust.
Step 4: Layer on the Cheese
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. You want to cover the sauce well, as the cheese will melt and bubble, creating that signature pizza look.
Step 5: Customize with Toppings
Now comes the fun part! Add your favorite toppings to each muffin half. Whether you prefer classic pepperoni, vibrant bell peppers, or savory olives, the choice is yours. Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of dried oregano and garlic powder over the top for an extra flavor kick.
Step 6: Drizzle with Olive Oil
For that golden finish, drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each pizza. This will help them crisp up beautifully as they bake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the muffins are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once your English Muffin Pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Use a spatula to transfer them to a serving platter. Slice them into quarters, and watch as everyone dives in!
Make It Year-Round
One of the best things about English Muffin Pizza is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it a year-round favorite:
- Seasonal Toppings: Use fresh vegetables from farmers’ markets in the summer or cozy roasted veggies in the fall.
- Holiday-Themed Pizzas: Get festive with toppings that match the seasons, like cranberry sauce and brie for Thanksgiving!
- Game Day Treat: Perfect for serving at parties—make a variety platter with different toppings.
- Healthy Alternatives: Swap out regular cheese for low-fat cheese or use whole-grain English muffins for a healthier twist.
Cook’s Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different sauces; pesto or alfredo can create unique flavor profiles.
- For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to your sauce or sprinkle them on top.
- You can also use gluten-free English muffins if you have dietary restrictions.
- These pizzas can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking, making them a great quick meal option.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
You can easily store leftover English Muffin Pizza for future enjoyment:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover pizzas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the baked pizzas. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, bake frozen pizzas at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
Questions People Ask
Can I make English Muffin Pizza in the microwave?
Yes, you can! Place the prepared muffin halves on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. However, the texture won’t be as crispy as when baked.
What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to mix cheeses! Cheddar, provolone, or gouda can all work well. Just ensure you have a melting cheese to achieve that gooey texture.
How do I prevent soggy English muffins?
Make sure to toast the English muffins lightly before adding sauce and toppings. This will help create a barrier that prevents them from getting soggy during baking.
Can I use whole wheat English muffins for a healthier option?
Absolutely! Whole wheat English muffins are a great alternative and add extra fiber to your meal.
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love the concept of English Muffin Pizza, you might also enjoy these other one-pan meal ideas:
- One-Pan Chicken Fajitas – A quick and flavorful dinner.
- One-Pan Roasted Vegetables – Perfect as a side or a main dish.
- One-Pan Pasta Primavera – A simple and colorful pasta dish.
- One-Pan Baked Risotto – Creamy and comforting, with minimal cleanup!
The Last Word
English Muffin Pizza is more than just a meal; it’s a canvas for creativity and a way to bring people together. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize makes this dish a staple in many homes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun cook-along with the kids, or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family!
English Muffin Pizza
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Split the English muffins in half and place them cut side up on a baking sheet.
- Step 3: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce onto each muffin half.
- Step 4: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Step 5: Add your favorite toppings and sprinkle with dried oregano and garlic powder.
- Step 6: Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each pizza.
- Step 7: Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 8: Remove from oven, let cool, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Experiment with different sauces like pesto for unique flavors.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free muffins to accommodate dietary restrictions.
