Short description
Soft, pillowy buns topped with savory minced beef, melted mozzarella, and fresh tomato slices—baked to perfection for a delightful, bite-size comfort treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mini pizza buns are the ultimate snack or party treat—easy to assemble, packed with hearty flavor, and perfectly portioned. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tangy pizza sauce, and bubbling mozzarella on soft buns is sure to satisfy any craving. Plus, they bake up quickly and look inviting on any table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 small burger buns or mini bread rolls, halved
• 300 g ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned (about 5–6 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in the pizza sauce and oregano. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Place the bun halves cut-side up on the prepared tray. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over each bun.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously atop the beef, then place a tomato slice on each bun.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Based on similar mini-bun recipes:

• Servings: approximately 6 mini buns (one per bun half)
• Prep time: around 10 minutes
• Cook/Bake time: approximately 10–12 minutes
• Total time: roughly 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Use different meats like crumbled sausage, diced pepperoni, or shredded chicken.
• Try alternative cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or parmesan.
• Add vegetables—bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or fresh basil—for extra flavor.
• Use a garlic-herb butter glaze on the buns before baking for added richness.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350 °F (175 °C) oven for about 5–8 minutes until the cheese is melted and the buns are warmed through.

FAQs

What if I don’t have pizza sauce?

You can use marinara or even passata. For a twist, mix tomato paste with a pinch of Italian seasoning and a little water.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes—assemble the buns, then refrigerate (covered) for a few hours before baking. Add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time if chilled.

Can I freeze the assembled buns before baking?

You can freeze them on the prepared baking tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

How do I prevent soggy buns?

Don’t overload the sauce, and consider lightly toasting the buns before topping to create a moisture barrier.

Can I bake without parchment paper?

Yes—just grease the baking tray lightly to prevent sticking.

Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?

Absolutely. You can customize toppings to suit preferences—cheese only, vegetables, or specific meats.

Can I make them spicy?

Yes—add chili flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture or over the cheese.

What bun types work best?

Soft dinner rolls or small burger buns work well. You can also use slider buns or mini ciabatta.

Can I halve or double the recipe?

Yes—the recipe scales easily. Adjust cooking time slightly if you’re baking larger batches.

What drinks pair well with these?

Serve alongside a crisp salad, iced tea, or a sparkling beverage for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

These Mini Meat Lover’s Pizza Buns are a quick, flavorful, and customizable treat—perfect for snacks, gatherings, or casual dinners. Soft buns, savory filling, melted cheese, and vibrant tomato slices make for a crowd-pleasing combination. Enjoy making this recipe your own with fun variations and easy prep.

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