Italian Herb Muffin Melts

Turn on your broiler to preheat. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add your finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them uncovered until they become translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle in the oregano, basil, and thyme. Let this mixture simmer gently for 2 minutes, stirring a few times to blend the flavors. While the sauce develops, slice your English muffins in half and toast them.

Arrange all 8 toasted muffin halves on a baking sheet. Distribute half of your shredded mozzarella evenly across the muffin halves. Place the sheet under the broiler, keeping it 3-4 inches from the heat source. Broil briefly for 1-2 minutes, just until you see the cheese begin to melt and bubble.

Remove the muffins from the broiler. Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of your prepared tomato mixture onto each muffin half. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, dividing it equally, then sprinkle each with Parmesan cheese.

Return the muffins to the broiler for another 1-2 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese melts completely and begins to show light golden spots. Remove from heat and pair up the halves to create 4 complete sandwiches.

Allow the sandwiches to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. These sandwiches will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.  To use from frozen, thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.  Each serving is one complete sandwich (2 muffin halves).

For best results, microwave for 2-3 minutes on low power (30%) or until heated through. This preserves the texture of the English muffin while warming the filling.

Pack a small side salad for a complete meal.  Customize with your favorite pizza toppings like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives - just add them before the final broiling.  For a protein boost, add a thin slice of turkey or plant-based protein between the halves.

Cheese Variations

Any melty cheese works beautifully in this recipe. Try:

• Sliced havarti for a buttery, creamy texture
• Swiss cheese for a nutty flavor
• Provolone for an authentic Italian deli taste
• Or stick with the original mozzarella and Parmesan combination

Bread Options

• Brioche English muffins add a delightful sweetness that complements the savory sauce
• Sourdough English muffins provide more tang
• Regular English muffins work perfectly too

Streamlined Toaster Oven Method

For an even quicker preparation perfect for busy mornings:

1. Make the sauce as directed (can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days)
2. Split English muffins and place sliced cheese on each half
3. Broil in toaster oven until cheese just begins to melt (about 2 minutes)
4. Remove, spread each half with prepared sauce
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan and any additional toppings
6. Return to toaster oven for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden
7. Allow to cool slightly before wrapping for lunch

Topping Ideas

Make it your own with these optional additions (add before final broiling):

• Sliced black or green olives
• Mini pepperoni
• Crumbled cooked Italian sausage
• Canadian bacon bits
• Bell pepper strips
• Fresh basil (add after cooking)
• Red pepper flakes for heat

Make-Ahead Sauce

Double or triple the sauce recipe and freeze in ice cube trays or small containers. Thaw individual portions as needed for quick assembly.