Go Back

Mini Pizzas from Leftover Bread Ends

This recipe transforms bread ends and scraps into fun, customizable mini pizzas using simple toppings and quick baking. The process involves layering sauce, cheese, and toppings on bread slices, then baking until bubbly and golden, resulting in crispy, cheesy snacks with a rustic charm. Perfect for using up kitchen leftovers and making a satisfying, creative treat.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices bread ends crusty and chewy, about 1/2 inch thick
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce seasoned with salt and garlic powder
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella store-bought for convenience
  • 1/2 cup assorted toppings sliced pepperoni, chopped veggies, or whatever you have
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing the bread slices
  • to taste fresh herbs basil or oregano, optional for garnish

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Small spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Pastry brush (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Use a sharp knife to slice the bread ends into small, thin rounds about 1/2 inch thick, creating mini bases for your pizzas.
  3. Lightly brush each bread slice with olive oil using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, focusing on the edges to help them crisp up nicely.
    4 slices bread ends
  4. Spread about 1 teaspoon of tomato sauce evenly on each bread slice, covering the surface but avoiding overload to prevent sogginess.
    4 slices bread ends
  5. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over the sauce, ensuring an even, light coating for gooey cheesiness.
    4 slices bread ends
  6. Top each mini pizza with your choice of sliced pepperoni, chopped vegetables, or other toppings, placing them evenly for balanced cooking.
    4 slices bread ends
  7. Arrange the mini pizzas on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for crisping.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and edges are golden brown.
  9. Check the pizzas: they should have crispy edges, melted cheese, and toppings cooked through. If needed, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for extra crispness.
  10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to set.
  11. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, then serve hot and enjoy your resourceful, cheesy mini pizzas.
    4 slices bread ends

Notes

Feel free to customize toppings based on what you have on hand. For extra flavor, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.