Let me tell you, in our house, weeknights can be a whirlwind. Between after-school activities, homework battles, and trying to maintain some semblance of sanity, dinner often feels like a race against the clock. That’s why recipes that are both quick and crowd-pleasing are absolute gold. And let me tell you, these English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas? They are pure gold. The first time I made these, the kids were skeptical – “Pizza for dinner again?” – but one bite in, and the skepticism melted away faster than the cheese on these little beauties. The crispy English muffin base, the savory ham, the perfectly cooked egg, all topped with melty cheese… it’s a flavor combination that just works. Plus, they are incredibly customizable, so even the pickiest eaters can find something to love. Honestly, these have become a staple in our dinner rotation, and I have a feeling they’re about to become one in yours too. Get ready for a meal that’s fast, fun, and utterly delicious – these English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas are about to become your new weeknight hero!
Ingredients for English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas
- English Muffins: 6 whole English muffins, split in half. These form the perfect crispy and slightly chewy base for our mini pizzas. Look for whole wheat options for added fiber.
- Cooked Ham: 6 slices of cooked ham, diced or thinly sliced. Use your favorite type of ham – deli ham, leftover baked ham, or even prosciutto for a more sophisticated flavor.
- Eggs: 6 large eggs. These are the star protein of our pizza, adding richness and flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend – choose your favorite melting cheese or a combination for a more complex flavor profile.
- Tomato Sauce or Pizza Sauce: ½ cup of tomato sauce or pizza sauce. Provides the classic pizza flavor base. You can use store-bought or homemade.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Used for brushing the English muffins to help them crisp up and for cooking the eggs.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients.
- Optional Toppings: Get creative! Consider sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, spinach, or a sprinkle of dried oregano or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Instructions: Making Your English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas
- Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the English Muffins: Split each English muffin in half. Place the muffin halves, cut-side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the cut side of each English muffin half with olive oil. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven and prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Add Tomato Sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce or pizza sauce evenly over each English muffin half. Don’t overdo it with the sauce, as too much can make the pizzas soggy.
- Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the tomato sauce on each muffin half. Make sure to cover the sauce completely and even go slightly to the edges.
- Add Ham: Distribute the diced or sliced ham evenly over the cheese on each pizza. Arrange it so that each bite will have a good amount of ham.
- Create Egg Wells (Optional but Recommended): Using the back of a spoon, gently make a small indentation or “well” in the center of the cheese and ham on each pizza. This will help keep the egg from sliding off during baking. This step is especially helpful if you want a slightly runny yolk.
- Crack the Eggs: Carefully crack one egg into each of the prepared wells (or directly onto the cheese if you skipped the well). Try to keep the yolk centered if you want a visually appealing pizza.
- Season with Salt and Pepper: Lightly sprinkle salt and black pepper over the eggs and the entire pizza to taste.
- Bake in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the English muffins are golden brown and crispy, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the egg whites are set but the yolks are still slightly soft (for a runny yolk) or cooked to your desired doneness. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and desired egg doneness.
- Check for Doneness: To check if the eggs are cooked to your liking, gently poke the egg white with a toothpick or knife. If it comes out clean, the whites are set. For a runnier yolk, bake for a shorter time; for a firmer yolk, bake for a bit longer.
- Remove from Oven and Cool Slightly: Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the pizzas cool for a minute or two before serving. This will make them easier to handle and prevent burning your mouth.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas immediately while they are warm and the cheese is melty. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts for English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas (per serving – 2 pizza halves)
- Serving Size: 2 English Muffin Pizza Halves
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal (This can vary based on cheese, ham, and sauce quantity and type)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Sodium: 700-900mg (Varies depending on ham and cheese)
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For accurate nutritional information, refer to the nutrition labels of the specific ingredients used.
Preparation Time for English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- This includes splitting the English muffins, dicing ham (if needed), shredding cheese (if using block cheese), and gathering all ingredients. The recipe is designed for speed, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- The baking time is relatively short, allowing for a quick turnaround from prep to plate. The exact time depends on your oven and desired egg doneness.
- Total Time: Approximately 27-30 minutes
- From start to finish, you can have these delicious English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas ready in under 30 minutes, making them a fantastic option for a speedy weeknight meal or a quick weekend brunch.
How to Serve English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas
These versatile mini pizzas can be served in a variety of ways, making them suitable for different occasions and meal times. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Breakfast or Brunch:
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit like berries, melon, or a fruit salad for a balanced and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
- Pair with a glass of orange juice, grapefruit juice, or a smoothie for a complete morning meal.
- Offer alongside yogurt and granola for a more substantial brunch spread.
- Lunch:
- Serve with a light side salad, such as a simple green salad or a Caesar salad, for a nutritious and fulfilling lunch.
- Accompany with a cup of soup, like tomato soup or vegetable soup, especially on a cooler day.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a fun and easy-to-eat lunch option for kids and adults alike (allow to cool completely before packing).
- Dinner:
- Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers for a more complete and balanced dinner.
- Pair with a larger salad, such as a chopped salad or a Greek salad, for a lighter yet satisfying dinner.
- Offer as part of a “pizza night” spread with other types of pizzas or appetizers.
- Snack or Appetizer:
- Cut each pizza half into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks or appetizers.
- Serve at parties or gatherings as a crowd-pleasing and easy-to-handle finger food.
- Offer with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or pesto for extra flavor.
- Garnishes and Toppings:
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle with fresh basil, parsley, or chives after baking for added freshness and visual appeal.
- Red pepper flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Parmesan cheese: Grate a little Parmesan cheese over the top for extra cheesy flavor.
- Hot sauce: Offer hot sauce on the side for those who like a spicy kick.
Additional Tips for Perfect English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas
- Toast the English Muffins First for Extra Crispness: For an even crispier base, lightly toast the English muffin halves in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a minute or two before adding the toppings. This will prevent them from becoming soggy during baking.
- Customize Your Cheese Blend: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese combinations. Try using a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a classic pizza flavor, or add some pepper jack for a spicy kick. For a richer flavor, a little bit of Gruyere or Fontina can be delicious.
- Pre-Cook Vegetables for Softer Texture: If you are adding vegetables like onions or bell peppers, consider sautéing them lightly in a pan with a little olive oil before adding them to the pizza. This will soften them and enhance their flavor, ensuring they cook through in the oven.
- Use Quality Ham for Best Flavor: The flavor of the ham significantly impacts the overall taste of the pizza. Opt for good quality deli ham or leftover baked ham. Smoked ham or Black Forest ham can add a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Adjust Egg Doneness to Your Preference: Bake the pizzas for a shorter time if you prefer a runny yolk, or for a longer time if you like your eggs more well-done. Keep an eye on them in the oven and adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Make-Ahead Prep for Busy Mornings: You can prep the English muffins with sauce, cheese, and ham ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply crack the eggs on top and bake. This can save you precious time during busy weekdays.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Make sure to space the English muffin pizzas out on the baking sheet so they bake evenly and the air can circulate properly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy bottoms.
- Experiment with Sauces: While tomato sauce is classic, feel free to experiment with other sauces. Pesto, Alfredo sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo can create unique and flavorful variations. Consider a white garlic sauce for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas
Q1: Can I make these pizzas ahead of time and reheat them?
A: While best served fresh, you can assemble the pizzas (without the egg) ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the egg and bake as directed. Reheating fully cooked pizzas is possible, but the egg yolk may become overcooked. Reheat in a low oven or toaster oven to prevent drying out.
Q2: Can I freeze English Muffin Ham and Egg Pizzas?
A: Freezing is not recommended once the egg is cooked, as the texture of the egg can change upon thawing and reheating. However, you can freeze the assembled pizzas without the egg. Thaw completely in the refrigerator, then crack the egg on top and bake as directed.
Q3: Can I use turkey ham or another type of meat instead of ham?
A: Absolutely! Turkey ham, Canadian bacon, cooked sausage crumbles, bacon bits, or even shredded chicken or leftover cooked steak would all be delicious substitutes for ham. Feel free to customize the protein to your liking or what you have on hand.
Q4: What if I don’t have English muffins? Can I use something else as a base?
A: While English muffins are ideal for their texture, you can use other bases like bagels (split in half), pita bread, tortillas, or even slices of toast. Cooking times may need to be adjusted depending on the thickness of the base.
Q5: Can I make these vegetarian?
A: Yes, easily! Simply omit the ham to make them vegetarian. You can add extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts to add more flavor and substance.
Q6: How do I prevent the bottom of the English muffins from getting soggy?
A: Brushing the English muffins with olive oil before adding toppings and toasting them lightly beforehand are key steps to prevent sogginess. Also, avoid using too much sauce and make sure your oven is properly preheated. Using parchment paper on the baking sheet can also help.
Q7: Can I cook these in an air fryer?
A: Yes, air fryers work wonderfully for these pizzas! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Assemble the pizzas and air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the eggs are cooked to your liking. Keep an eye on them as air fryers can cook quickly.
Q8: My kids are picky eaters. How can I make these more appealing to them?
A: Get them involved in the process! Let them choose their own toppings and assemble their own pizzas. Cut the pizzas into fun shapes using cookie cutters after baking. You can also use kid-friendly cheese like mild cheddar or mozzarella and keep the sauce and toppings simple to start. Sometimes, just calling them “mini pizzas” is enough to pique their interest!
