Name: Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces English muffins (split in half); 1 cup pizza sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 ounces mini pepperoni

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Who doesn’t love a delicious pizza? It’s one of those comfort foods that brings smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. But what if I told you that you could whip up a pizza in just minutes using your air fryer? Yes, you heard that right! With Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas, you can indulge in a quick, easy, and satisfying meal or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!

Why This Recipe Works

Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas are the epitome of convenience and flavor. The air fryer circulates hot air around the muffins, resulting in a crispy crust while keeping the cheese beautifully melted. This method eliminates the need for a traditional oven, making it a speedy option for busy weeknights or spontaneous cravings. Plus, using English muffins as the base allows for individual pizzas, perfect for personal customization. Whether you prefer classic cheese or a loaded pepperoni, the air fryer does the hard work for you with less mess and fuss.

What You’ll Need

6 English muffins, split in half
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
4 ounces mini pepperoni

These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful pizza experience. Feel free to swap out the toppings or sauce based on your preferences!

Equipment & Tools

Air fryer: The star of the show that cooks everything to crispy perfection.
Kitchen scissors: Ideal for cutting the mini pepperoni into smaller pieces if desired.
Spatula: Helpful for removing the pizzas from the air fryer without sticking.
Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Having the right tools on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step: Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas

Step 1: Prepare the English Muffins

Start by splitting the English muffins in half. You can use a knife or simply pull them apart with your hands. Place the halves cut side up on a clean surface.

Step 2: Add the Pizza Sauce

Spoon about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce onto each English muffin half, spreading it evenly. This is where you can let your creativity shine—add more sauce if you like a saucier pizza!

Step 3: Sprinkle on the Cheese

Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each muffin half. The more cheese, the merrier, right? You can also mix in other cheeses for extra flavor.

Step 4: Top with Pepperoni

Evenly distribute the mini pepperoni over the cheese. If you prefer, you can cut them into quarters for a more spread-out topping.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures that your pizzas cook evenly and get that perfect crunchy texture.

Step 6: Air Fry the Pizzas

Carefully place the prepared English muffin pizzas in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them—work in batches if necessary. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, use a spatula to carefully remove the pizzas from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for a minute, then serve hot and enjoy your delicious Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

In the spring, top with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a Caprese twist.
In summer, add fresh veggies like bell peppers, olives, and cherry tomatoes for a garden pizza.
As the leaves turn in fall, try a pumpkin sauce base with mozzarella and sage for a seasonal treat.
In winter, load up on hearty toppings like cooked sausage, mushrooms, and spinach for a cozy dinner.

With these seasonal ideas, you can enjoy Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas all year round, each time with a unique flavor profile.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

Don’t overfill the muffins with sauce or toppings, as this can lead to sogginess.
Make sure the air fryer is fully preheated to achieve that crispy finish.
Keep an eye on them while cooking; air fryers can vary in temperature and cooking time.
Allow the pizzas to cool slightly before eating to avoid burning your mouth.

Being mindful of these tips will ensure your Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas turn out perfectly every time!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

These pizzas are best enjoyed fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to handle them:

Cooling: Allow the pizzas to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
Storing: Place any leftover pizzas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Rewarming: To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

These simple steps help maintain the quality and flavor of your pizzas for future enjoyment!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat English muffins?

Absolutely! Whole wheat English muffins will work just as well and add a nutty flavor to your pizzas.

What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! You can use vegetables like bell peppers, onions, olives, or even cooked chicken or bacon for a protein boost.

Can I make these pizzas vegetarian?

Yes, simply skip the pepperoni and load up on your favorite veggies and perhaps some sliced olives for extra flavor.

How do I know when the pizzas are done?

The pizzas are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the muffins are golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking!

Explore More

These resources are filled with inspiration and delicious recipes, perfect for any cooking enthusiast!

Wrap-Up

In conclusion, Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas are a fantastic option for a quick lunch, dinner, or snack. With their crispy texture and customizable toppings, they are sure to please everyone in the family. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make, and the air fryer does all the hard work for you! So gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and enjoy this delightful dish today. Your taste buds will thank you!