Hey there, pizza lovers! If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to satisfy those pizza cravings, you’ve hit the jackpot with these air fryer English muffin pizzas. Seriously, they’re a game-changer! Using the air fryer means you get that deliciously crispy crust without the fuss of heating up your whole oven. It’s all about speed and convenience here—perfect for a snack, a fun lunch, or even a cozy movie night. Plus, you can throw on your favorite toppings and make each one just the way you like it. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them! Let’s dive in and whip up some pizza magic!
Ingredients List
- 2 English muffins, split in half – I love using these because they create the perfect base for our mini pizzas!
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce – You can use your favorite jarred sauce or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – This is where the magic happens! The gooey, melty goodness is a must.
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices – Feel free to load them on or swap them out for veggies for a healthier twist!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Trust me, this adds a lovely depth of flavor that takes it to the next level.
How to Prepare Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas
Now, let’s get into the fun part—putting these delicious air fryer English muffin pizzas together! It’s super easy, and I promise you’ll be snacking in no time.
Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is really important because it helps to ensure your pizzas cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture. Just like how you’d preheat an oven, this little step makes a big difference!
Assemble the Pizzas
Next, grab those English muffin halves and spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on each one. I like to use the back of a spoon to really make sure it’s evenly spread—nobody wants a dry bite! Then, sprinkle on that luscious shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover all the edges for maximum melty goodness. And now, it’s time for the pepperoni! Arrange those slices on top, or get creative with your toppings if you’re in the mood for something different. A little sprinkle of Italian seasoning over everything adds a fantastic flavor boost!
Cooking Instructions
Once your pizzas are assembled, carefully place them in the air fryer basket. Try to leave a little space between each one so they can cook evenly—this isn’t a pizza stack! Cook them for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is all melted and bubbly, and the edges of the muffins are just starting to get that beautiful golden color. Wow, the aroma will be irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: These air fryer English muffin pizzas come together in just 15 minutes—perfect for when you’re short on time!
- Easy clean-up: With just a few ingredients and one tool, you won’t spend ages washing dishes.
- Customizable toppings: Go wild with your favorite toppings! Whether you’re a pepperoni lover or a veggie enthusiast, the choice is yours!
- Delicious snack option: These mini pizzas are a fantastic snack for any time of day—great for kids or a cozy night in.
- Healthier than delivery: You can control the ingredients and make a guilt-free version of your favorite snack.
Tips for Success
- Toast the Muffins First: For an extra crispy base, consider toasting the English muffins briefly before adding your toppings. It really makes a difference in texture!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure to space out the muffin halves in the air fryer basket. This helps them cook evenly and ensures that every bite is deliciously crispy.
- Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is classic, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try a blend of cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a fun flavor twist.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your pizzas during the last few minutes of cooking. Once the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden, you’re ready to dig in!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh toppings can elevate your pizzas! Whether it’s fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, or even a drizzle of olive oil, don’t shy away from adding a little flair.
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delightful air fryer English muffin pizzas! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a typical breakdown per muffin half:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 12g
So, whether you’re enjoying these as a mid-afternoon snack or alongside a salad for lunch, you can feel good about indulging in these tasty bites. Happy munching!
FAQ Section
Can I use other toppings?
Absolutely! One of the best things about these air fryer English muffin pizzas is how customizable they are. Whether you want to load them up with veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions or go for something like ham or bacon, the sky’s the limit! Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you’re using any raw toppings to ensure everything is heated through.
How do I store leftovers?
If you find yourself with any leftovers—though I can’t imagine that happening—they’re easy to store! Just place them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melty again. Yum!
Can I make these gluten-free?
You sure can! There are plenty of gluten-free English muffins available at most grocery stores, and they work just as well for these pizzas. Just check the packaging to ensure they’re certified gluten-free, and you’ll be good to go. Enjoy your delicious pizzas without any worries!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up these delicious air fryer English muffin pizzas, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal experience! Here are a few delightful side dishes and beverages that pair perfectly with your tasty creations:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is a fantastic complement! Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a burst of freshness.
- Garlic Breadsticks: If you’re in the mood for something extra, serve your pizzas with some homemade or store-bought garlic breadsticks. They’re perfect for dipping into any leftover pizza sauce!
- Veggie Platter: Keep it light and healthy by offering a colorful platter of sliced veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots, paired with a delicious dip like hummus or ranch.
- Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink, try some sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime. It’s a great way to cleanse your palate between bites!
- Classic Soda: If you’re feeling nostalgic, a classic soda pairs perfectly with these mini pizzas, making for a fun, casual meal that’ll take you back to childhood!
Mix and match these suggestions to create your ideal pizza night spread. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—if you’re willing, that is!
For more information on healthy eating, check out this resource from MyPlate.
For tips on food safety, visit the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.
For more on the benefits of air frying, see this Healthline article.
Print
Air fryer English muffin pizzas: 5 Minute Crispy Delight
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quick and easy air fryer English muffin pizzas.
Ingredients
- 2 English muffins, split
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread pizza sauce on each English muffin half.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top.
- Place the muffin halves in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Adjust toppings as per your preference.
- For extra crispiness, toast the muffins before adding toppings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin half
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: air fryer english muffin pizzas
