Homemade Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas photo
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Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas

If you’re looking for a fun and simple way to satisfy your pizza cravings, look no further than these Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas! Perfect for a quick lunch, a snack for the kids, or even a cozy movie night, these bite-sized delights are sure to please everyone at the table. The best part? They’re customizable, quick to make, and incredibly delicious. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get started!

Top Reasons to Make Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas

Classic Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas image

  • Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, these pizzas are ready in just about 20 minutes!
  • Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or swap out the cheese for a different flavor.
  • Perfect for Kids: Mini pizzas are fun for kids to help make, and they’re the perfect size for little hands.
  • Great for Meal Prep: These can easily be made in larger batches and frozen for later use.
  • Healthier Option: Using English muffins gives a lighter, crispier base compared to traditional pizza dough.

Ingredient Breakdown

  • 2 Thomas Light Multi-Grain English Muffins, halved: These make a great base that is both nutritious and tasty.
  • 1 cup pizza sauce, divided: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for that rich tomato flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives that classic pizza taste. Monterey Jack is a delicious alternative.
  • ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese, divided: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.
  • About 40 mini pepperoni, divided: Approximately 10 per half for that perfect pepperoni punch!
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, minced (for garnishing, optional): Fresh basil adds a delightful aroma and taste to finish off your mini pizzas.

Equipment Breakdown

  • Baking Sheet: For placing your mini pizzas. A light coating of cooking spray or parchment paper can help with clean-up.
  • Oven: Preheat to ensure your pizzas cook evenly and melt the cheese just right.
  • Knife: For cutting the English muffins in half and mincing the basil.
  • Measuring Cups: For accurate ingredient measurement, ensuring each pizza has the right balance of toppings.

Build Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas Step by Step

Delicious Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas recipe photo

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature to get your mini pizzas crisp and delicious.

Step 2: Prepare the English Muffins

Slice the Thomas Light Multi-Grain English muffins in half. Place them cut side up on the baking sheet.

Step 3: Spread the Sauce

Using a spoon, spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on each muffin half. Be generous but ensure you don’t drown the muffins!

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each half. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a gooey layer.

Step 5: Top with Pepperoni

Distribute approximately 5 mini pepperoni slices over each muffin half. Feel free to add more if you’re a pepperoni lover!

Step 6: Sprinkle Parmesan

Top each mini pizza with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the muffins are golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the minced fresh basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas!

Season-by-Season Upgrades

Quick Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas food shot

  • Spring: Top with fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
  • Summer: Add sliced tomatoes and fresh mozzarella for a caprese-inspired twist.
  • Fall: Incorporate pumpkin puree into the sauce and sprinkle with sage.
  • Winter: Top with roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty option.

Chef’s Notes

  • Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A mix of mozzarella and cheddar can add a sharpness that tastes amazing.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, consider using spicy pepperoni or adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Don’t have mini pepperoni? Regular-sized pepperoni can be cut into smaller pieces.
  • For a vegetarian option, simply skip the pepperoni and add more veggies instead!

Save for Later: Storage Tips

These Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use whole wheat English muffins instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat English muffins add a nutty flavor and are a healthier choice.

Can I make these mini pizzas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pizzas ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of pizza sauce?

Tomato paste, pesto, or even a white sauce can be used as a base for your mini pizzas. Get creative with your favorite flavors!

Are there any vegan options for this recipe?

Definitely! Use vegan cheese and skip the pepperoni, or opt for plant-based toppings like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers.

That’s a Wrap

With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create delicious Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these pizzas are a crowd-pleaser that can easily be tailored to your preferences. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy the satisfaction of making your own mini pizzas!

Homemade Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas photo

Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas

These Easy Mini Pepperoni Pizzas are quick, customizable, and perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Snack
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Pizzas:
  • 2 pieces Thomas Light Multi-Grain English Muffins halved
  • 1 cup pizza sauce divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese divided
  • 40 pieces mini pepperoni divided
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves minced (for garnishing, optional)

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Oven
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Step 2: Slice the English muffins in half and place them cut side up on the baking sheet.
  3. Step 3: Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on each muffin half.
  4. Step 4: Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each half.
  5. Step 5: Distribute approximately 5 mini pepperoni slices over each muffin half.
  6. Step 6: Top each mini pizza with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.
  7. Step 7: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes.
  8. Step 8: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the minced fresh basil on top and serve warm.

Notes

  • Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor.
  • Use spicy pepperoni for an extra kick.
  • Regular-sized pepperoni can be cut into smaller pieces.
  • For a vegetarian option, add more veggies instead of pepperoni.

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