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Mini Margherita Pizzas for Kids – Simple, Fresh, and Fun

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Mini pizza bases: About 12 small rounds of pizza dough (2.5–3 inches wide) or 6 English muffins split, or 6 mini pitas
  • Tomato sauce: 1 cup simple marinara or crushed tomatoes (low-sodium if cooking for toddlers)
  • Fresh mozzarella: 8 ounces, cut into small cubes or thin slices (pat dry to reduce moisture)
  • Cherry tomatoes (optional): 1 cup, halved
  • Fresh basil: A small handful of leaves, torn just before serving
  • Olive oil: 1–2 tablespoons
  • Salt and pepper: To taste (go light for kids)
  • Dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional): A pinch
  • Flour or cornmeal: For dusting the baking sheet if using dough

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Heat to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly oil it. If you have a pizza stone, preheat it for extra crispness.
  2. Prep the bases: If using dough, pinch off golf ball–sized pieces and flatten into 2.5–3-inch rounds. Keep them about 1/4 inch thick. If using muffins, pitas, or tortillas, place them directly on the sheet.
  3. Lightly oil and season: Brush each base with a thin layer of olive oil. Add a tiny pinch of salt and pepper. This adds flavor and helps crisp the edges.
  4. Add sauce: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of sauce onto each mini base. Spread to the edges, but don’t flood it. Too much sauce makes soggy pizzas.
  5. Top with cheese: Scatter mozzarella evenly. If using fresh mozzarella, pat it dry to avoid excess moisture. Add a pinch of dried oregano if you like.
  6. Add tomatoes (optional): A couple of cherry tomato halves on each pizza boost sweetness and color.
  7. Bake: Bake for 8–12 minutes, depending on the base. You’re looking for melted, bubbly cheese and lightly golden edges. English muffins and pitas may finish sooner.
  8. Add basil: Remove from the oven and immediately scatter torn basil over the top. The heat will release the aroma without wilting it completely.
  9. Cool and serve: Let the pizzas cool for 3–5 minutes. This helps the cheese set and keeps little mouths safe.