How to Make the Best English Muffin Pizzas at Home
Craving pizza but don’t want to make dough or wait for delivery? English Muffin Pizzas are the perfect answer. This easy and nostalgic recipe turns simple pantry staples into crispy, cheesy mini pizzas that work for busy nights, after-school snacks, or a fun DIY dinner with kids.
Whether you cook all the time or you’re brand new in the kitchen, this guide will show you exactly how to make the best English Muffin Pizzas at home.
Why English Muffin Pizzas Are So Popular
English Muffin Pizzas have been loved for years because they’re the perfect mix of comfort and convenience. Here’s why they’re a favorite:
- Perfect individual portions: Great for kids and picky eaters who want their own toppings.
- Super easy: No dough, no mess, and ready in less than 20 minutes.
- Endless topping options: Go classic, veggie-packed, or get creative.
- Budget-friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have.
- Great for meal prep: Make extra and save for quick meals later.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts of English Muffin Pizzas is how simple the ingredients are. Here’s what to grab:
- English muffins – White, whole wheat, or gluten-free
- Pizza sauce – Jarred or homemade marinara
- Mozzarella cheese – Shredded works best
- Toppings – Pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, onions, etc.
- Optional extras – Olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, crushed red pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
These mini pizzas are quick and simple to make. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (a toaster oven works too).
- Split the English muffins and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Lightly toast them for 3–5 minutes to help create a crispy base.
- Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce on each half, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle on the cheese and add your favorite toppings.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles.
- Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden, toasty top.
- Finish with herbs or chili flakes if you like, and serve hot.
Creative Topping Ideas
Want to make your English Muffin Pizzas even more fun? Try these tasty combos:
- Meat Lovers: Pepperoni, crumbled sausage, bacon bits
- Veggie Supreme: Mushrooms, onions, peppers, black olives
- BBQ Chicken: BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, red onion, cilantro
- Breakfast Style: Scrambled eggs, cheddar, crumbled sausage
- Caprese: Tomato slices, mozzarella, basil, balsamic drizzle
Kids love building their own pizzas, so let them choose their favorite toppings!
Tips for the Best English Muffin Pizzas
These simple tips help you get a crisp and delicious pizza every time:
- Toast first: Keeps the muffins from getting soggy.
- Use a little sauce: Too much can make the base soft.
- Limit toppings: Stick to 2–3 so they cook evenly.
- Try a wire rack: Helps air flow for a crisper bottom.
- Preheat well: A hot oven gives you melty cheese fast.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you make extra, English Muffin Pizzas store and reheat easily:
- Cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving unless you don’t mind a softer base.
Fun Variations to Try
Enjoy new flavors with these easy twists:
- Hawaiian: Ham, pineapple, mozzarella
- Buffalo: Chicken in buffalo sauce, blue cheese crumbles
- Vegan: Plant-based cheese and veggie toppings
- Pesto: Swap tomato sauce for basil pesto
- Mini Margherita: Tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil
English Muffin Pizzas Recipe
Course: Lunch, Main Course, SnackCuisine: American4
servings5
minutes10
minutes225
kcal15
minutesEnglish Muffin Pizzas are a quick, customizable, and kid-approved meal made with split English muffins, pizza sauce, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings. Ready in under 20 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, lunchboxes, or a fun DIY pizza night at home.
The muffins are toasted for extra crispiness, topped with sauce and cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. These mini pizzas are simple, adaptable, and a great option for kids and adults who love easy meals with big flavor.
Ingredients
4 English muffins split in half
½ cup pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
16 slices pepperoni optional
¼ cup sliced black olives optional
¼ cup diced bell peppers optional
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning optional
1 tablespoon olive oil optional, for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (a toaster oven works too).
- Split the English muffins and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Lightly toast the muffins for 3–5 minutes. This helps create a crisp base that won’t get soggy.
- Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce on each muffin half, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add the cheese and top with your favorite toppings.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden, toasty finish.
- Finish with herbs or chili flakes if you like, and serve hot.
Keyword
- English Muffin Pizzas
FAQ’s
Can I make English Muffin Pizzas ahead of time?
Yes! Toast the muffins and assemble them ahead. Store covered in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking.
Can these be frozen?
Absolutely. Assemble and freeze unbaked pizzas on a tray, then store in a bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 12–15 minutes.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 370°F for 4–5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
