This is the recipe we pull out on evenings when the schedule is overflowing and cooking something elaborate is simply not an option. End of term, Wednesday evenings after the kids’ gym, lazy Sundays — these pizza burgers on English muffins are made for those moments. A grandmother’s idea, improved over the years, and something we make without a second thought.
The first thing that strikes you is the cheese spilling over the edges of the muffin, slightly browned where the heat has done its work. The smell coming from the air fryer blends roasted garlic in butter, reduced tomato with the meat, and that warm base of mozzarella that reminds you of a mini pizzeria in your kitchen. The base crisps up nicely under your teeth while the topping remains dense and generous with sauce. This is exactly what you expect from comfort food: contrasting textures and effortlessly complementary flavors.
