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Make-Ahead Lunchbox Pizza Muffins

make-ahead lunchbox pizza muffins - featured image
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These cozy make-ahead lunchbox pizza muffins are portable, freezer-friendly, and packed with mozzarella, pepperoni, and herbs, making them a perfect warm and comforting meal prep option.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 150g)
  • ½ cup chopped pepperoni slices or mini pepperoni
  • ½ cup pizza sauce
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • A handful of fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil or butter, or line with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, Italian seasoning, and sugar.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and olive oil until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.
  5. Fold in the shredded mozzarella, chopped pepperoni, and pizza sauce gently to distribute evenly.
  6. Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
  7. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of each muffin.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with melted cheese strands.
  9. Let the muffins rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before freezing or serving.
  10. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender. Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Freeze muffins in a single layer before storing to prevent sticking. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven or microwave. Variations include vegetarian toppings, gluten-free flour, and different cheeses.

Nutrition

Keywords: pizza muffins, make-ahead, freezer-friendly, meal prep, kid-friendly, easy lunch, portable snack

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/make-ahead-lunchbox-pizza-muffins-recipe-easy-freezer-friendly-meal-prep/