English Muffin Pizzas

This is the ultimate “quick-win” meal for beginners. It’s faster than ordering delivery and far more rewarding. Using English muffins as a base provides a built-in “nook and cranny” texture that holds sauce and cheese perfectly, giving you a crispy, personal-sized pizza in under 15 minutes.

Kitchen Equipment Needed
• Baking sheet
• Toaster (optional, for pre-toasting)
• Spoon (for spreading sauce)
• Oven mitts

Ingredients
• English muffins (split in half)
• Pizza sauce (jarred or homemade)
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• Toppings of choice: Pepperoni, cooked sausage, diced peppers, or onions.

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F to 400°F. If you want them done faster and crispier, aim for the 400°F mark.
2. The “Anti-Soggy” Pre-Toast: Split your muffins and place them on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for 2–5 minutes (or pop them in a regular toaster first). This creates a barrier so the sauce doesn’t soak into the bread.
3. Sauce and Cheese: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over each toasted half. Avoid over-saucing to maintain that crunch! Follow with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella.
4. Add Toppings: Layer on your favorites like pepperoni or veggies.
5. Bake: Place the sheet in the oven.
o At 375°F: Bake for 10–15 minutes.
o At 400°F: Bake for 10 minutes.
o Toaster Oven: Bake at 400°F for 13–15 minutes.
6. The Finishing Touch: Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are lightly browned.
7. Cool and Serve: Let them sit for 2–3 minutes to allow the cheese to set before serving.