Mini Pizzas Lunch
These delicious mini pizzas offer a creative lunch alternative to everyday sandwiches that kids will actually eat! Made with English muffins and customizable toppings, they provide a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and hidden vegetables - perfect for lunchboxes.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 12 minutes mins
Total Time 22 minutes mins
Course Lunch
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 12 mini pizzas
Calories 245 kcal
Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper
Wire Rack
Pizza Base
- 6 whole wheat English muffins split in half (can substitute with mini pita breads or bagels)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce & Seasonings
- 3/4 cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce (low-sodium options work well)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded (part-skim for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup bell peppers finely diced (any color)
- 1/2 cup mushrooms finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cooked chicken or turkey diced
- 2 tablespoons spinach finely chopped
- 12 slices pepperoni quartered (can use turkey pepperoni)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Split the English muffins in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush each half with olive oil to create a moisture barrier.
Mix the garlic powder and half of the Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the oiled English muffin halves.
Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce on each English muffin half. Leave a tiny border around the edge to create a "crust" effect.
Sprinkle a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of parmesan cheese directly onto the sauce to create a protective barrier against moisture.
Distribute your chosen toppings evenly across the mini pizzas. For best results with children, finely dice vegetables into pieces no larger than 1/4 inch.
Cover the toppings with mozzarella cheese, using about 2 tablespoons per mini pizza. Sprinkle the remaining Italian seasoning over the cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beginning to turn golden at the edges.
Allow the mini pizzas to cool completely on a wire rack before packing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
These mini pizzas excel as make-ahead options. After baking and cooling completely, store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag where they'll maintain quality for up to 2 months.
For lunch boxes, pack these mini pizzas alongside colorful companions like cucumber "coins" and cherry tomatoes. Include an ice pack to maintain food safety, but separate it from the pizzas with a cloth napkin to prevent soggy crusts.
Calories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 12gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 390mgFiber: 3gCalcium: 220mgIron: 1.8mg
Keyword Mini Pizzas, Kids Lunch, Lunchbox Ideas, English Muffin Pizza