Toaster Oven English Muffin Pizzas
Craving pizza but short on time? These toaster oven English muffin pizzas are the perfect quick and easy solution!
Why This Works in a Toaster Oven
Toaster ovens are perfect for English muffin pizzas because they provide quick, even heating and a perfectly crispy base without overheating your kitchen.
Toaster Oven Setup
- Temperature: 400°F (205°C)
- Setting: Bake
- Convection: No
- Rack Position: Middle
- Pan Size: 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm)
- Batch Size: 4 mini pizzas
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Rotate Pan: No
- Ready When: The cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the muffins are golden brown.
💡 No convection setting? You're all set — this recipe uses the regular Bake setting, so any toaster oven can make it, with or without a convection button.
Ingredients
Base
- 2 English muffins, split
Sauce & Toppings
- 1/2 cup (125 g) pizza sauce
- 1 cup (113 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (28 g) sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup (28 g) sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup (28 g) diced bell peppers
Equipment
- Toaster oven
- 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm) baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Spoon for spreading sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your toaster oven to 400°F on the Bake setting.
- Place the English muffin halves cut side up on a parchment-lined 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm) baking tray.
- Spread 2 tablespoons (31 g) of pizza sauce on each muffin half.
- Sprinkle each with 1/4 cup (28 g) of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Top with pepperoni slices, black olives, and diced bell peppers as desired.
- Place the tray in the middle rack of the toaster oven.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the muffins are golden brown.
- Remove from the toaster oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy your mini pizza creations, perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
How to Know It's Ready
The cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the muffins are golden brown.
Troubleshooting
- If the cheese isn't melting evenly, try using the convection setting if your toaster oven has one.
- For extra crispy edges, broil the pizzas for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.
- If the muffins are browning too quickly, lower the rack position.
- Ensure the muffins are split evenly to avoid uneven cooking.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster oven at 350°F for 5 minutes until warmed through.
Variations
- Use whole wheat English muffins for a healthier base.
- Try different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for variety.
- Add cooked sausage or bacon for a meatier pizza.
- Include fresh basil or spinach for a fresh twist.
- Swap pizza sauce for pesto for a different flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use bagels instead of English muffins?
Yes, bagels can be used, but they are thicker and may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What other toppings work well?
Try mushrooms, onions, or jalapeños for added flavor.
Can these be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the English muffins with sauce and toppings, then refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper?
Parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
How do I prevent the muffins from getting too soggy?
Toast the muffin halves slightly before adding toppings to prevent sogginess.