Wide Eyed Pizzas
Wide Eyed Pizzas are fun, mini personal pizzas with rich tomato flavor and savory ground beef, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining kids.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure 1/2 cup of tomato sauce.
- Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, salt, and oregano in a bowl.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts.
- Form each part into a 1/2-inch thick circle about 4 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Pinch the edges of each circle to create a stand-up rim. Pour 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce in the center of each.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top of each pizza.
- Put back in the oven just long enough for the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use whole wheat bread crumbs for added fiber. If you prefer a sharper flavor, add some minced garlic or chopped onions to the meat mixture. These wide-eyed pizzas are also great for using up leftover ingredients, so feel free to experiment with different toppings or sauces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the wide-eyed pizzas with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for extra flavor. For a fun twist, consider serving these alongside a light soup like tomato bisque, which complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover wide-eyed pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain their crispy texture while warming them evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wide Eyed Pizzas contains roughly 256 calories, with 12g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (125% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (92% of the Daily Value), and calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 26g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these pizzas for later?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked pizzas! Assemble them up to the baking point, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to bake, cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use pizza sauce, marinara sauce, or even pesto for a unique flavor. For a creamy option, try using Alfredo sauce instead. Just ensure your substitute complements the other ingredients.
Can I make these pizzas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and form the pizzas, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining, allowing flavors to meld and saving time on busy days.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).