Lunch · american

English Muffin Pizzas

A toaster oven does all the real work here, and kids can assemble their own before it goes in. Thomas' English Muffins are the go-to for their nooks that hold the sauce well; Rao's marinara or any jarred pizza sauce works in place of dedicated pizza sauce. Pre-shredded low-moisture mozzarella from any grocery store melts fast and doesn't release extra water.

English Muffin Pizzas
Make ahead: Assemble without baking, wrap, and freeze up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375F for 10 minutes.

How to make it

  1. Split and lightly toast the English muffins in a toaster to prevent a soggy crust.

  2. Set the toaster oven to 375F and line the tray with foil.

  3. Spread a tablespoon of sauce on each muffin half, add cheese, then toppings.

  4. Bake 5 to 7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.

  5. Cool for 1 to 2 minutes before serving to kids.

Let kids pick their own toppings from whatever is already in the fridge: sliced olives, frozen corn (add straight from the bag), or a small spoonful of pesto instead of red sauce. To make it a heartier lunch, crumble cooked Italian sausage or add diced deli ham over the cheese before baking.

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Times are approximate. Adjust to your stove and your kids.