Description
Veggie Lover’s Cups
Ingredients:
1 can pizza dough
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup diced green and yellow bell peppers
¼ cup diced red onions
¼ cup sliced black olives
Instructions:
Preheat oven and grease a muffin tin.
Cut and press dough into muffin cups.
Spread marinara sauce on the dough.
Add cheese, peppers, onions, and olives.
Bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes.
Team Veggie? Let us know your favorite veggie combo for pizza toppings!
#VeggiePizzaDelight
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Veggie Lover’s Cups every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, thoroughly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil. Open the can of pizza dough and unroll it on a lightly floured surface. Using a knife or pizza cutter, divide the dough into 12 equal squares. Gently press each square of dough into the prepared muffin cups, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly to form a cup. Next, spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce into the bottom of each dough cup. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Then, evenly distribute the diced bell peppers, red onions, and sliced black olives among the cups. Top with the remaining cheese. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
These portable pizza cups are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm from the oven as a fun appetizer at parties or game day gatherings. They also make a fantastic quick lunch or after-school snack paired with a simple green salad or a cup of soup. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside garlic breadsticks and a side of extra marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.
How-to Summary
In short: grease a muffin tin, press dough squares into cups, layer with sauce, cheese, and veggies, then bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Absolutely! One pound of homemade dough will work perfectly. Just ensure it is rolled to a similar thickness as canned dough.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cups (cover tightly) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled pizza cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best texture.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Diced mushrooms, spinach, artichoke hearts, or jalapeños are excellent additions. Just ensure any watery veggies are patted dry first.
Can I freeze these pizza cups?
Yes, after baking and cooling, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overfilling the cups, as this can cause the toppings to spill over and burn. Do not skip greasing the muffin tin, or the dough will stick. Using too much sauce can make the dough soggy; a tablespoon per cup is sufficient. Finally, ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking.
Conclusion
Veggie Lover’s Cups are a simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing way to enjoy pizza flavors in a fun, individual format. They are endlessly customizable with your favorite vegetables and perfect for any occasion. Give this easy recipe a try and don’t forget to share your own favorite veggie combinations!
