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Best Easy Make-Ahead Mini Pizza Lunchables

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These easy make-ahead mini pizza Lunchables are a budget-friendly, time-saving alternative to store-bought kits. Made with English muffins, pizza sauce, and mozzarella, they are perfect for lunch prep and taste great cold or reheated.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 English muffins (split in half)
  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Pepperoni slices (about 24 slices, optional)
  • Cooked Italian sausage or ground beef (optional)
  • Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)
  • Olive oil or cooking spray
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Split the English muffins in half using a fork or your fingers. Arrange the muffin halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Par-bake the muffins for 5 minutes until they are just starting to turn golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute or two.
  4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce onto each muffin half, leaving a small border around the edge.
  5. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella onto each saucy muffin. If using Parmesan, add a pinch on top.
  6. Add your desired toppings (e.g., 2-3 pepperoni slices per pizza, or a spoonful of cooked sausage, or a few small veggie pieces).
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the muffins are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Cool completely on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes.
  9. Once cooled, place each mini pizza in a compartment lunch container or a zip-top bag. If packing for the week, separate layers with parchment paper.
  10. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Notes

Par-baking the English muffins is the secret to keeping them crispy. Let the pizzas cool completely before packing to avoid sogginess. For faster prep, assemble the pizzas on the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking (add 2-3 minutes to bake time).

Nutrition

Keywords: mini pizza, lunchables, make-ahead, meal prep, English muffin pizza, kid-friendly lunch

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/best-easy-make-ahead-mini-pizza-lunchables/