Easy & Flavorful Pizza Egg Muffins: Your Go-To Recipe for Healthy, Make-Ahead Meals

Are you searching for a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-prepare meal that caters to the demands of a busy lifestyle? Look no further than these incredible Pizza Egg Muffins! Perfect for school lunchboxes, a quick weeknight dinner, or a relaxed brunch, these savory bites are packed with flavor and nutrition. They combine fluffy eggs with classic pizza toppings like savory sausage, zesty pepperoni, vibrant red bell pepper, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all finished with a dollop of rich pizza sauce. Baked conveniently in a muffin tin, they can be enjoyed warm straight from the oven or frozen for later, making meal prep an absolute breeze.

The Inspiration Behind Our Favorite Pizza Egg Muffins

As the school year kicks into full gear, and with the flurry of sports and extracurricular activities, finding healthy, protein-packed, and convenient meal options becomes a top priority for many families, including my own. The summer months always fly by, leaving us scrambling to adjust to new routines. This is precisely why I adore recipes like these egg muffins.

Egg muffins are inherently fantastic because they are wonderfully simple to prepare, exceptionally freezer-friendly, and fit perfectly into lunchboxes for school or work. They truly are the ultimate grab-and-go solution for busy mornings or whenever you need a quick, satisfying bite. Today, I’m thrilled to share this recipe for Pizza Egg Muffins in collaboration with the Ohio Poultry Association. This recipe brilliantly combines wholesome eggs, lean turkey sausage, flavorful pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, fresh red bell pepper, aromatic spices, and a touch of pizza sauce to create a breakfast, lunch, or snack that tastes just like a slice of pizza, but in a healthier, more manageable form.

Your children will absolutely adore the familiar and comforting taste of pizza, while you can feel great knowing they’re enjoying a protein-rich and nutritious meal. If you’re a fan of savory muffins and looking for more variety, be sure to explore some of our other popular recipes like Healthy Mac & Cheese Muffins, Classic Breakfast Egg Muffins, Caprese Egg Muffins, or my vibrant Southwestern Taco Egg Muffins. Each offers a unique flavor profile while delivering the same convenience and nutritional benefits.

Why These Healthy Pizza Egg Muffins Will Become Your Family’s Favorite

These Pizza Egg Muffins aren’t just delicious; they’re a smart choice for any busy household. Here’s why they’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation:

• Incredibly Versatile: This recipe is remarkably flexible, allowing you to easily adapt it to your family’s specific tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Feel free to adjust the seasoning levels, incorporate a variety of your favorite vegetables, or experiment with different cheeses to make each batch uniquely yours. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bits and pieces in your fridge!
• Master of Meal Prep: Say goodbye to stressful mornings! Pizza Egg Muffins are the ultimate make-ahead meal. You can easily double or even triple the recipe, enjoy some fresh out of the oven, and then refrigerate or freeze the rest. This ensures you always have a wholesome, ready-to-eat breakfast, lunch, or snack at your fingertips, saving precious time during your busiest days.
• A Powerhouse of Nutrition: Fuel your body and mind with these protein-packed muffins. Featuring eggs and ground sausage, they provide sustained energy to help you power through your day. Eggs, in particular, are a nutritional marvel. They help kids feel fuller for longer, and each large egg delivers an impressive 6 grams of high-quality protein for just 70 calories. Beyond protein, eggs are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, B12, choline, and selenium, which are crucial for growth, brain development, and overall health. Research consistently shows that children who eat a nutritious breakfast tend to achieve higher test scores, maintain improved attendance, and participate more actively in class. Giving them a delicious and healthy start like these pizza egg muffins sets them up for success.

Essential Ingredients and Easy Substitutions for Your Pizza Egg Muffins

Crafting these delicious pizza egg muffins is straightforward, especially with these versatile ingredients:

• Sausage: For a leaner option, I recommend using turkey Italian sausage, which still delivers fantastic flavor. However, feel free to choose any variety of ground sausage you love, such as savory pork sausage, lighter chicken sausage, or even a flavorful vegetable/plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
• Seasoning: We build the classic “pizza” flavor using Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. For even more depth, consider adding a pinch of dried oregano, a hint of crushed red pepper for extra heat, or some paprika for color and warmth.
• Bell Pepper: I’ve chosen a vibrant red bell pepper for its sweetness and color, but any color pepper—yellow, orange, or green—will work beautifully and add essential vitamins and a pleasing crunch.
• Fresh Basil: For the most aromatic and authentic flavor, fresh basil is key. I like to chop some and mix it into the sausage mixture, and then use additional fresh basil leaves as a garnish before serving. It truly brightens the dish.
• Cheese: Classic mozzarella cheese provides that perfect melty, cheesy goodness essential for any pizza-inspired dish. We’ll use 1 cup mixed into the filling and save an extra 1/2 cup to sprinkle generously over the top of the muffins before they bake, creating a golden, bubbly crust.
• Eggs: The base of our muffins! You’ll need 12 large eggs, which yield approximately 18 muffins. This recipe is easy to scale—you can halve it for a smaller batch or double it if you plan to freeze a significant portion for future meals.
• Pepperoni: To boost that unmistakable pizza taste, I include chopped turkey pepperoni. This offers a lighter alternative while maintaining the classic flavor. If you prefer, you can omit it entirely, add more on top, or substitute with other cooked meats like diced ham or crumbled bacon for a different savory profile.
• Pizza or Marinara Sauce: A crucial element for the pizza experience! A small spoon of your favorite pizza or marinara sauce is added to the top of each muffin before baking. You can also serve extra warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping after the muffins are baked, enhancing the overall pizza flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Craft These Easy Pizza Egg Muffins

Creating these savory delights is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked Pizza Egg Muffins:

• 1. Prepare Your Muffin Tins: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Generously grease your muffin tins with cooking spray; you’ll need enough for 18 muffins. Even if you have non-stick tins, a light spray ensures easy removal and a beautifully golden exterior. Set them aside, ready for filling.
• 2. Sauté the Sausage and Seasonings: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your chosen ground sausage (I use turkey Italian sausage), along with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Break up the sausage with a spoon and cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse into the meat.
• 3. Incorporate Bell Pepper and Basil: Next, add the diced red bell pepper and chopped fresh basil to the skillet. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is thoroughly browned and cooked through, which typically takes another 5-6 minutes. Once cooked, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your muffins light and flavorful. Set the cooked mixture aside to cool slightly.
• 4. Combine Pizza Fillings: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, the chopped pepperoni, and the cooled ground sausage mixture. Stir everything together until well distributed.
• 5. Whisk the Eggs: In a separate large bowl, crack the 12 large eggs. Whisk them vigorously until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. This ensures a uniform texture in your egg muffins. Add the whisked egg mixture to the sausage and cheese mixture. Season with a dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper, and stir in any remaining fresh basil. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
• 6. Fill and Top the Muffin Tins: Carefully pour the egg mixture into your prepared muffin tins, filling each cup approximately two-thirds of the way full. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing. Now, for the signature pizza touch: add a small spoon (about 1 teaspoon) of pizza or marinara sauce on top of each filled muffin cup, then sprinkle each with a small amount of the reserved 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
• 7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the muffin tins into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg muffins are set in the middle (a toothpick inserted comes out clean) and their tops are beautifully golden brown and bubbly.
• 8. Cool and Release: Once baked, remove the muffin tins from the oven. Allow the muffins to cool in the tins for a few minutes before carefully removing them. This helps them hold their shape and prevents sticking.
• 9. Garnish and Serve: For an extra burst of freshness and flavor, garnish your Pizza Egg Muffins with more fresh basil or shredded cheese if desired. If you love a little heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes and extra Italian seasoning can add a wonderful spice!
• 10. Store Leftovers for Later: These egg muffins are fantastic for meal prep. Refrigerate any leftover egg bites in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months, making them perfect for those incredibly busy mornings.

Creative Customizations: Making These Pizza Egg Muffins Your Own

The beauty of this Pizza Egg Muffin recipe lies in its adaptability. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Sausage & Protein Power: While turkey Italian sausage is fantastic, feel free to use any flavor of sausage you enjoy, including sweet or spicy pork sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based ground crumbles for a vegetarian option. You can also swap out the sausage entirely for other cooked meats like diced cooked ham or crispy crumbled bacon for a different savory profile.
• Cheese, Please!: Mozzarella is a classic for a reason, but mixing up the cheeses can introduce exciting new flavors. Try adding a tangy goat cheese, sharp cheddar for a bolder taste, spicy pepper jack, or creamy Monterey jack cheese for a different texture and flavor dimension.
• Bring the Heat: If you love a bit of spice, enhance the cayenne pepper, or add a pinch of chili powder or extra red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture. You can also sprinkle a few red pepper flakes on top of the muffins before baking for a visual and spicy kick.
• Veggie Boost: Increase the nutritional value and texture by incorporating other finely chopped vegetables into the egg mixture. Think juicy tomatoes, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, tangy banana peppers, fresh green onions, or earthy mushrooms. Sautéing them briefly with the sausage will bring out their best flavor.
• Leafy Greens Power-Up: For an extra dose of vitamins, stir in some fresh baby spinach or arugula leaves into the egg mixture. They will wilt down beautifully as the muffins bake, adding a subtle, healthy touch.
• Aromatic Fresh Herbs: Basil provides a wonderful freshness, but don’t limit yourself! Other fresh herbs like chopped parsley, oregano, tarragon, or thyme can add different aromatic notes that complement the savory ingredients beautifully.

Essential Tips for Perfect Pizza Egg Muffins & Egg Handling

To ensure your Pizza Egg Muffins are perfect every time and to maximize their convenience, keep these handy tips in mind:

• Smart Leftover Storage: For optimal freshness and safety, store any leftover egg muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This prevents them from drying out and keeps them ready for your next meal.
• Effortless Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy a refrigerated muffin, simply pop it into the microwave and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. For a crispier exterior, you can also reheat them in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes.
• Freezing for Future Convenience: These muffins are incredibly freezer-friendly. To freeze them, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped muffins into a large freezer-safe Ziploc bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply remove one (or more!) from the freezer and microwave for approximately 2 minutes, or until heated through.
• Optimal Egg Storage: Maintaining proper temperature is key for egg safety. Always remember to keep cold egg dishes, like these muffins, at 40°F (4°C) or cooler. If packing for lunch, ensure you use an ice pack and remind your student or coworker to store their lunchbox in a cool place. For raw eggs, always store them in the original carton in the center of your refrigerator, where the temperature remains consistently at 45°F (7°C) or below – never in the door, as temperatures fluctuate too much there.
• Don’t Waste Eggs – Freeze Them!: If you find yourself with extra eggs nearing their expiration date, don’t throw them out! You can easily freeze them. Just crack the eggs into a bowl, whisk them gently until blended (without incorporating too much air), then pour into a sealed, freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to one year! When needed, safely thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold, running water before use.
• Egg Safety & Freshness Dates: Did you know that properly refrigerated eggs are safe to eat four to five weeks past the Julian date printed on the carton? This three-digit code on the short side of the carton indicates the consecutive day of the year the eggs were packed (e.g., 001 for January 1st, 365 for December 31st), providing a clear guideline for freshness.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings for Your Pizza Egg Muffins

These healthy pizza egg muffins are incredibly versatile and can be served at almost any meal, or even as a hearty snack:

• Breakfast on the Go: For a quick and nutritious breakfast, pair them with a fresh fruit salad, a green smoothie, or a simple cup of coffee or tea. They are perfect for grabbing as you head out the door.
• Lunchbox Hero: Pack them into school or work lunchboxes. They hold up well at room temperature, though keeping them cool with an ice pack is ideal. Consider sending a small container of extra marinara sauce for dipping!
• Light & Satisfying Dinner: When serving these as a main lunch or dinner option, I always recommend complementing them with a fresh, crisp side salad. Some excellent choices include my refreshing Mediterranean Bean Salad, the bright Lemon Arugula Salad with Pine Nuts, a classic Easy Lebanese Salad, the unique Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad, my wholesome Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing, or this universally loved Everyday Italian Salad.
• Wholesome Vegetable Sides: If you prefer a cooked vegetable side, these muffins pair wonderfully with various options. Try Green Beans with Bacon for a smoky touch, my flavorful Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables, or a simple yet delicious Roasted Broccoli dish.
• After-School Snack: These are ideal for kids as a hearty after-school snack, providing sustained energy before homework or sports activities.

More Delicious Egg-Based Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed these Pizza Egg Muffins, you’ll surely love our other popular egg-based recipes, perfect for any time of day:

EGG SAUSAGE CASSEROLE

CHEESE & SAUSAGE BAKED EGGS

ZUCCHINI FRITTATA

BREAKFAST PITAS

CAPRESE QUICHE LORRAINE

GREEK BAKED EGGS

MEDITERRANEAN EGG SCRAMBLE

EASY SHAKSHUKA

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Pizza Egg Muffins

By Julia Jolliff

Prep: 15 minutes mins

Cook: 25 minutes mins

Total: 40 minutes mins

Servings: 18

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Pizza Egg Muffins are a great option to put in lunchboxes during the school year, eat at dinner or brunch.

Ingredients 

• ▢ 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• ▢ 1 lb. ground turkey sausage,, cooked
• ▢ 1/2 of a red bell pepper,, seeds removed, diced
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon cayenne red pepper
• ▢ 12 large eggs,, whisked
• ▢ 1 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese,, divided
• ▢ 8-10 pieces of turkey pepperoni,, chopped
• ▢ pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper
• ▢ 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• ▢ 1/2 cup of tomato sauce or pizza sauce
• ▢ fresh basil for garnish

Instructions 

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease your muffin tins {enough for 18 muffins} and set aside. If you have a non-stick muffin tin those work great.
• In a large skillet heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium high heat. Add the ground sausage, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne pepper, and cook for 3 minutes.
• Add the bell pepper and basil and continue to cook until sausage is browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl add 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, chopped pepperoni and the ground sausage.
• In another large bowl crack the eggs and whisk them together. Add the egg mixture to the sausage mixture and season with a dash of salt and pepper and the fresh basil. Stir until fully combined.
• Pour the egg mixture into the muffin tins {about 2/3 of the way full}. Add a small spoon of tomato sauce and sprinkle each muffin with a small amount of the 1/2 cup of leftover cheese.
• Put the egg muffins in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the egg muffins are set in the middle and begin to turn golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and let cool before removing from the muffin tin.
• Garnish with fresh basil and more shredded cheese if you like. You also can add crushed red pepper & Italian seasoning for some spice!
• Refrigerate the egg muffins for up to a week in an airtight container. You also can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Notes

• Here are a few ideas to modify these egg muffins: 
  Add more of less spices depending on your tastes
  Add other types of protein like ham. 
  Add other vegetables like tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, banana peppers or mushrooms. 
  Mix up the cheeses and try something like pepper jack or monterey jack cheese
• Storage: If you want to freeze these wrap them in plastic wrap individually and then put them in a large ziplock bag. Remove from the freezer when you are ready to eat them and heat them in the microwave for two minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 127kcal, Carbohydrates: 1g, Protein: 11g, Fat: 9g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 4g, Trans Fat: 0.1g, Cholesterol: 136mg, Sodium: 290mg, Potassium: 147mg, Fiber: 0.2g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 405IU, Vitamin C: 5mg, Calcium: 72mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Tried this recipe?Mention @acedarspoon or tag #acedarspoon!

Today’s post is sponsored by Ohio Poultry Association. As always, opinions are 100% my own.