Imagine pulling a warm tray of pizza muffins from the oven, the aroma wafting through your kitchen like a hug on a chilly day. These muffins boast a soft, pillowy texture with crisp edges, creating a delightful balance in every bite. Each mouthful bursts with the savory flavors of pepperoni, cheese, and a hint of Italian herbs. You’ll find yourself reaching for these little treats again and again, as they make for a perfect snack, lunchbox addition, or cozy dinner accompaniment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza muffins are not only easy to whip up, but they also bring the joy of pizza in a fun, portable form. They are perfect for kids and adults alike and can be customized to fit your taste. You can enjoy them fresh from the oven or pack them for a snack on the go. Plus, baking a batch fills the house with an inviting aroma that draws everyone to the kitchen!

Ingredients Needed For Pizza Muffins

• 2 cups flour: This is the base for your muffins. All-purpose flour works perfectly here to give your muffins structure.
• 2 tsp garlic salt: A must-have for that delightful savory kick; it brings out the flavors in each bite.
• 2 tsp onion powder: This adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the mix.
• 1 tsp oregano: Nothing says “pizza” like oregano! This herb provides that authentic Italian flavor you love.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Essential for that perfect rise, helping your muffins to be light and fluffy.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan: Adds a delightful nuttiness and richness that pairs well with the other flavors.
• 2 cups whole milk: Ensures moisture and a tender crumb; don’t skip the whole milk for the best results!
• 2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and contribute to the muffins’ fluffiness.
• 2 tbsp salted butter, melted: This enriches the flavor; you can use unsalted if preferred, just adjust the salt.
• 1 (5-ounce) package mini pepperoni, divided: The star ingredient! Adds that beloved pepperoni taste throughout every muffin.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar: For cheesy goodness! You can switch this up with your favorite cheese, like mozzarella.
• 4 tbsp pizza sauce: A tasty surprise inside and on top; feel free to use homemade or your favorite store-bought variety.

How to Make Pizza Muffins

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
2. Chop 3/4 of the mini pepperoni into 1/4 inch pieces and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic salt, onion powder, oregano, baking powder, and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Add the milk, eggs, melted butter, and half the package of chopped pepperoni to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Note: the batter will be runny.
5. Spray a regular-sized 6-serving muffin tin with cooking spray. Fill each muffin cup 1/4 of the way full with the batter.
6. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese in the middle of each filled muffin cup.
7. Add more batter on top until each cup is about 3/4 full.
8. Add a dollop of pizza sauce on each muffin and sprinkle with more cheddar. Top it off with mini pepperoni, pressing them down slightly into the batter to keep them in place.
9. Bake at 375 degrees for 20-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Let the muffins rest in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before removing them to cool on a wire rack.

How to Serve Pizza Muffins

Serve these pizza muffins warm, perhaps with extra pizza sauce for dipping on the side. They are great on their own or with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. These muffins also make an enjoyable snack for after-school or during game night with friends.

How to Store Pizza Muffins

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until warm.

Tips to Make Pizza Muffins

• To prevent the muffins from overflowing, fill them only to about 3/4 full.
• Experiment with different toppings! Try adding olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms for variety.
• For extra flavor, consider seasoning your pizza sauce with Italian herbs before adding it to the muffins.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella for a more traditional pizza flavor.
• Pepperoni: Use turkey pepperoni or any plant-based alternatives for a healthier option.
• Vegetarian: Skip the pepperoni altogether and throw in some spinach or other veggies to keep it vibrant and fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze pizza muffins?

Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely and then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

How can I make these muffins spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni to give your pizza muffins an extra kick.

Can I use self-rising flour instead?

Yes, you can! If you use self-rising flour, you can omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe.

What dipping sauces pair well with pizza muffins?

You can’t go wrong with classic marinara sauce or ranch dressing! A zesty garlic aioli would also be a fantastic choice.

Can I add more fillings to the muffins?

Yes! Feel free to get creative. Adding veggies, different types of meats, or cheeses can all enhance your pizza muffins in unique ways. Enjoy experimenting!

Pizza Muffins

These pizza muffins are a delicious portable snack packed with pepperoni, cheese, and Italian herbs, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 22 minutes mins

Total Time 37 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 muffins

Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups flour All-purpose flour works perfectly.
• 2 tsp garlic salt For a delightful savory kick.
• 2 tsp onion powder Adds depth and subtle sweetness.
• 1 tsp oregano Provides authentic Italian flavor.
• 2 tsp baking powder Essential for the muffins to rise.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan Adds nuttiness and richness.

Wet Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk Ensures moisture and a tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs Bind the ingredients and help fluffiness.
• 2 tbsp salted butter, melted Enriches the muffins’ flavor.

Toppings

• 1 (5-ounce) package mini pepperoni, divided Adds the classic pepperoni flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar You can substitute with mozzarella.
• 4 tbsp pizza sauce Used for adding flavor inside and on top.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
• Chop 3/4 of the mini pepperoni into 1/4 inch pieces and set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic salt, onion powder, oregano, baking powder, and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Add the milk, eggs, melted butter, and half the package of chopped pepperoni to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
• Spray a regular-sized muffin tin with cooking spray. Fill each muffin cup 1/4 of the way full with the batter.
• Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese in the middle of each filled muffin cup.
• Add more batter on top until each cup is about 3/4 full.
• Add a dollop of pizza sauce on each muffin and sprinkle with more cheddar. Top with mini pepperoni, pressing them down slightly.

Baking

• Bake at 375 degrees for 20-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let the muffins rest in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before removing them to cool on a wire rack.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

Keyword Comfort Food, Finger Food, Pizza Muffins, Savory Muffins, Snack Ideas