Mini pizzas are my family's absolute favorite lunchtime solution. After countless kitchen experiments and four picky eaters, I discovered this gem of a recipe that transformed our meal prep routine. It's amazing how two simple ingredients can create such perfect little pizzas golden and crispy on the outside, yet wonderfully soft inside.
I started making these when my youngest refused to eat cafeteria food. Now they've become such a hit that even my teenagers request them for their weekend sleepovers.
Essential Ingredients
Self-raising flour (it creates that perfect fluffy texture I spent years trying to achieve). Full-fat Greek yogurt (trust me, don't go low-fat it makes all the difference). Quality tomato paste (I prefer the Italian brands for their rich flavor). Fresh mozzarella (pre-shredded works, but freshly grated melts like a dream). Pepperoni (my kids prefer the mini ones, they cover more surface area).
Detailed Instructions
- Dough Magic:
- Mix flour and yogurt until the mixture looks shaggy.
- Work the dough:
- with your hands until it becomes smooth.
- Roll it out:
- on your floured counter.
- Shape And Form:
- Use a mug to cut out perfect circles. Reform leftover dough pieces. Transfer carefully to your baking sheet.
- Add Your Toppings:
- Spread a thin layer of tomato paste. Sprinkle generous amounts of cheese. Arrange pepperoni pieces.
- Into The Oven:
- Bake until edges turn golden. Watch the cheese bubble up. Let them cool slightly.
Last week, my daughter's friend stayed for dinner and couldn't believe we made these ourselves. Her mom called the next day asking for the recipe!
Perfect Pairings
We love serving these with crunchy carrot sticks and cucumber slices. For movie nights, I'll put out a big bowl of cherry tomatoes and some ranch dip. Sometimes I'll whip up a quick green salad if we're feeling fancy.
Make It Your Own
My oldest loves his with extra cheese and mushrooms, while my husband adds fresh basil and red pepper flakes. For my vegetarian niece, I top them with colorful bell peppers and corn they're always a hit at family gatherings.
Fresh For Days
Store these little beauties in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper. They'll stay fresh in the fridge for three days though they rarely last that long in our house! For reheating, a quick 20 seconds in the microwave works perfectly.
These mini pizzas have saved countless busy mornings and afternoon snack emergencies in our house. There's something magical about opening a lunchbox to find your very own personal pizza waiting inside. Every time I make them, I'm reminded why simple food made with love tastes better than anything fancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular flour instead of self-raising?
- Yes, add 4 teaspoons of baking powder to plain flour (2 teaspoons per cup).
- → Can these be frozen?
- Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- → How long do they keep?
- Store in fridge for 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- → Can I make one large pizza instead?
- Yes, you can make one large pizza with the same dough.
- → Why is my dough sticky?
- Add extra flour to your hands and the dough if it becomes too sticky while kneading.