Mini Pizza Muffin Cups
I just baked these mini pizzas and the kids are already demanding more. The no-cook pizza sauce and refrigerated dough make this meal a snap.
I just baked these mini pizzas and the kids are already demanding more. The no-cook pizza sauce and refrigerated dough make this meal a snap.
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- optional toppings:
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1-1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1 tube (11 ounces) refrigerated thin pizza crust
- pepperoni sausage, canadian bacon, green pepper, pineapple, olives and mu
- Carbohydrate 0.0542853515625 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.0034948046875 g
- Fiber 0.0355042968727648 g
- Protein 0.01269234375 g
- Saturated Fat 0.00021214453125 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (0g)
- Sodium 72.7016328125 mg
- Sugar 0.0187810546897352 g
- Trans Fat 0.0009822890625 g
- Calories 0 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
- In a small bowl, mix the first six ingredients.
- Unroll pizza crust; cut into 16 squares.
- Press squares onto bottom and up sides of 16 ungreased muffin cups, allowing corners to hang over edge.
- Spoon 1 tablespoon sauce mixture into each cup.
- Top with cheese; add toppings as desired.
- Bake 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
- Serve remaining sauce mixture with pizzas.
- Freeze option: Freeze cooled baked pizzas in a resealable plastic freezer bag. To use, reheat pizzas on a baking sheet in a preheated 425 degrees oven until heated through.
Mini Pizza Muffin Cups: A Busy Mom's Delight
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the family fed can feel like a never-ending marathon. That's why I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious recipes that the whole family will enjoy. These mini pizza muffin cups are a perfect example – a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No complicated steps, no hours spent in the kitchen – just a few simple ingredients and a short baking time. Even my picky eaters gobble these up, which is a huge win in my book. The individual portions are perfect for little hands and make portion control a breeze. Plus, the fun, mini-pizza format makes dinner time feel like a special occasion.
The No-Cook Sauce: A Time Saver
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is the no-cook pizza sauce. Forget simmering tomatoes for hours! Simply combine tomato paste, tomato sauce, and a few seasonings, and you’re good to go. It’s a fantastic time-saving trick that doesn't compromise on flavor. The subtle sweetness of the sugar (optional, but recommended) balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
Creative Topping Options: Get the Kids Involved!
The best part about these mini pizzas is the endless topping possibilities! Pepperoni, Canadian bacon, green peppers, pineapple, olives – the list goes on and on. I love involving my kids in the topping selection process. It’s a fun way to get them excited about dinner, and it teaches them about different flavors and textures.
Meal Prep Made Easy: Freeze for Future Meals
Another great advantage of this recipe is its freezer-friendliness. Once cooled, the mini pizzas can be easily frozen in a freezer bag for a quick and easy meal on a busy day. Simply pop them in the oven to reheat, and dinner is served in minutes. This feature has been a lifesaver during those weeks when I’m running short on time.
Beyond Weeknight Dinners: Perfect for Parties and Gatherings
These mini pizza muffin cups are not just for weeknight dinners. They're also a fantastic option for parties, potlucks, or kids' birthday celebrations. Their bite-sized portions make them easy to grab and enjoy, and their fun shape always seems to impress guests. I've served them at countless gatherings, and they always disappear in a flash.
Tips and Variations:
- Experiment with different cheeses: Try using provolone, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Add some veggies: Mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers are all great additions.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
- Use different crusts: Try using pre-made crescent roll dough or even pita bread for a variation.
In short, these mini pizza muffin cups are a versatile, delicious, and convenient meal that fits seamlessly into my busy life. They're a surefire way to please even the pickiest eaters, and their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion. So, next time you're looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, give these mini pizza muffin cups a try. You won't be disappointed!
