Delicious Mushroom And Onion Pizza: Easy Homemade Recipe Guide

how to make a mushroom and onion pizza

Making a mushroom and onion pizza is a delightful way to elevate your homemade pizza game with earthy and savory flavors. Start by preparing a simple pizza dough, either from scratch or using store-bought, and let it rise until it’s ready to be rolled out. For the toppings, sauté sliced mushrooms and onions in olive oil until they’re caramelized and tender, enhancing their natural sweetness. Spread a layer of tomato sauce or a white garlic sauce over the dough, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella or a mix of cheeses for a creamy base. Add the sautéed mushrooms and onions, along with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra burst of flavor. Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at a high temperature until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. The result is a comforting, flavorful pizza that’s perfect for any meal.

Characteristics Values
Dough Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade), rolled to desired thickness
Sauce Tomato sauce (canned or homemade), seasoned with oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Cheese Mozzarella cheese (shredded), Parmesan cheese (grated)
Toppings Sliced mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), thinly sliced onions, minced garlic
Seasonings Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (optional), dried or fresh herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
Cooking Oil Olive oil or another high-smoke point oil for drizzling
Cooking Time 12-15 minutes at 475°F (245°C) or until crust is golden and cheese is melted
Oven Temperature Preheat to 475°F (245°C) or highest setting
Pan/Surface Pizza stone, baking sheet, or preheated skillet
Assembly Order 1. Dough, 2. Sauce, 3. Cheese, 4. Mushrooms and onions, 5. Additional cheese/seasonings
Optional Additions Sliced bell peppers, spinach, olives, or cooked Italian sausage
Serving Suggestions Fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top after baking
Preparation Time 20-30 minutes (excluding dough rising time if homemade)
Yield 1 large pizza (serves 4-6)
Storage Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days; reheat in oven or skillet
Special Tools Pizza cutter, rolling pin, pastry brush (for oiling)

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Prepare dough: Mix flour, yeast, water, salt, knead until smooth, let rise until doubled

To begin preparing the dough for your mushroom and onion pizza, start by gathering your ingredients: all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, lukewarm water, and salt. Measure out 3 cups of flour and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the flour and whisk the two together until well combined. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dough. In a separate small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast with 1 cup of lukewarm water (around 110°F or 45°C). Let the yeast mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Once the yeast is activated, pour the yeast and water mixture into the flour and salt mixture. Use a wooden spoon or a spatula to stir the ingredients together until a rough dough forms. The dough will be sticky at this stage, but resist the urge to add more flour just yet. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and begin kneading. Kneading is essential to develop the gluten in the dough, which gives the pizza its characteristic chewy texture. Fold the dough over onto itself, push it down and away from you with the heels of your hands, then rotate it slightly and repeat the process.

Continue kneading the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is still very sticky after a few minutes, you can add a little more flour, but do so sparingly—too much flour can make the dough tough. As you knead, you should feel the dough becoming more cohesive and less sticky. To test if the dough is ready, press it gently with your finger—if it springs back slowly, it’s ready. If not, continue kneading for a few more minutes.

Once the dough is smooth and elastic, shape it into a ball. Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil and place the dough ball inside, turning it to coat all sides with oil. This prevents the dough from sticking to the bowl and forming a dry crust. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place. The ideal rising temperature is around 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C). Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size, which typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

After the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles that formed during rising. This step helps to redistribute the gases and ensures an even texture in the final pizza crust. At this point, your dough is ready to be shaped and topped with mushrooms, onions, and your favorite pizza sauce and cheese. Properly prepared dough is the foundation of a great pizza, so take your time with each step to ensure the best results.

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Sauté mushrooms and onions: Cook until golden, season with salt, pepper, and garlic

To begin the process of making a mushroom and onion pizza, you'll want to focus on preparing the key ingredients: mushrooms and onions. Start by selecting fresh, firm mushrooms and onions. Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms work well for this recipe, as they have a mild, earthy flavor that pairs nicely with onions. Peel and slice the onions into thin, even pieces, and clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth or brushing off any dirt. Slice the mushrooms to a similar thickness as the onions to ensure even cooking.

Next, heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a generous amount of olive oil or butter to the pan, allowing it to coat the surface evenly. The fat will help the vegetables cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden color. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions to the pan. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. This process should take around 5-7 minutes. As the onions cook, their natural sugars will begin to caramelize, creating a sweet and savory base for your pizza.

After the onions have softened, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown. This should take approximately 8-10 minutes. As the mushrooms cook, their flavor will intensify, and they'll develop a rich, umami taste that complements the sweetness of the onions. Keep a close eye on the mixture to prevent burning, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a steady sizzle.

As the mushrooms and onions cook, season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. The salt will enhance the flavors, while the pepper adds a subtle heat. The garlic, added towards the end of cooking, will infuse the mixture with its aromatic flavor without burning. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind that the flavors will continue to develop as the pizza bakes. The goal is to create a well-seasoned, golden-brown mixture that will serve as the star topping for your mushroom and onion pizza.

Once the mushrooms and onions are cooked to perfection, remove the pan from heat and set the mixture aside to cool slightly. This will allow the flavors to meld together and prevent the pizza dough from becoming soggy. The sautéed mushrooms and onions should be tender, fragrant, and evenly coated with the seasoned oil. This mixture will add a burst of flavor and texture to your pizza, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. With the mushrooms and onions prepared, you're now ready to assemble and bake your homemade mushroom and onion pizza.

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Make sauce: Blend tomatoes, herbs, olive oil, simmer for rich, flavorful pizza base

To begin crafting the perfect sauce for your mushroom and onion pizza, start by selecting high-quality, ripe tomatoes as the foundation. Fresh tomatoes are ideal, but canned whole tomatoes can also work well if fresh ones are unavailable. Roughly chop the tomatoes into large pieces to prepare them for blending. Add a generous amount of fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, and a touch of thyme to the mix. These herbs will infuse the sauce with aromatic flavors that complement the earthy mushrooms and sweet onions. Drizzle in a few tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to enhance the richness and ensure a smooth consistency. Blend the mixture until it reaches a slightly chunky yet cohesive texture, allowing the herbs and tomatoes to meld together without becoming overly puréed.

Once blended, transfer the sauce to a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. Simmering is crucial as it reduces the sauce, concentrating its flavors and creating a deeper, more robust taste. This process also helps to soften any remaining tomato chunks and meld the flavors of the herbs and olive oil seamlessly. Aim for a simmer time of about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and develops a vibrant, rich color. This step transforms the raw ingredients into a flavorful base that will elevate your pizza.

While the sauce simmers, take the opportunity to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add a pinch of salt and a touch of black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes and herbs. If you prefer a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity, a small teaspoon of sugar or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can be added. Taste the sauce as it cooks and tweak the seasonings as needed, ensuring it strikes the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. This attention to detail will make your pizza sauce stand out.

As the sauce nears the end of its simmering time, consider adding a final touch of freshness by stirring in a handful of chopped basil leaves or a splash of olive oil. This step adds a bright, herbal finish that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the simmered sauce. Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before spreading it onto your pizza dough. This rich, flavorful base will serve as the perfect foundation for your mushroom and onion toppings, creating a harmonious and delicious pizza.

Finally, remember that the sauce is a key component of your pizza, so take the time to prepare it with care. The blending and simmering process not only enhances the flavors but also ensures a texture that adheres well to the dough and toppings. By focusing on these steps, you’ll create a pizza sauce that is both simple and sophisticated, setting the stage for the earthy mushrooms and caramelized onions to shine. With this rich, flavorful base, your mushroom and onion pizza is sure to impress.

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Assemble pizza: Spread sauce, add cheese, top with mushrooms, onions, drizzle olive oil

To assemble your mushroom and onion pizza, start by preparing your pizza dough and preheating your oven to the recommended temperature, typically around 475°F (245°C). Once your dough is rolled out and placed on a baking sheet or pizza stone, it’s time to focus on the toppings. Begin by spreading a generous layer of pizza sauce evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Use the back of a spoon to ensure the sauce is distributed smoothly, creating a flavorful base for your pizza.

Next, sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. The cheese will melt and bind all the ingredients together, so be sure to cover the entire surface evenly. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can mix in some grated Parmesan or provolone cheese for added depth. The cheese acts as a foundation for the mushrooms and onions, ensuring they adhere well during baking.

Now, it’s time to add the star ingredients: the mushrooms and onions. Slice fresh mushrooms thinly and scatter them evenly over the cheese layer. Follow this by distributing thinly sliced onions across the pizza. Aim for a balanced arrangement to ensure every slice has a mix of both toppings. If you’re using pre-cooked or sautéed mushrooms and onions, let them cool slightly before adding to avoid releasing excess moisture onto the pizza.

To enhance the flavors and add a touch of richness, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the toppings. This not only adds a subtle fruity note but also helps the vegetables caramelize slightly in the oven. Use a light hand with the olive oil to avoid making the pizza greasy. A thin, even drizzle will suffice to bring all the elements together.

Finally, give your pizza a quick check to ensure the toppings are evenly distributed. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of dried oregano, red pepper flakes, or fresh basil leaves for an extra layer of flavor. Once assembled, slide the pizza into the preheated oven and bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. This step-by-step assembly ensures a delicious mushroom and onion pizza that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.

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Bake and serve: Cook at 475°F for 12-15 minutes, slice, garnish with basil

Once your mushroom and onion pizza is assembled, it’s time to focus on the final steps: baking and serving. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the pizza evenly and give it a crispy crust. While the oven heats up, let the pizza sit at room temperature for a few minutes to prevent the dough from shocking when it goes into the hot oven. Place the pizza on a preheated baking stone, pizza steel, or a perforated pizza pan for optimal heat distribution and crispiness. If you’re using a regular baking sheet, ensure it’s preheated as well to help the crust cook through.

Once the oven is fully preheated, carefully transfer the pizza inside. Bake it for 12 to 15 minutes, keeping a close eye on it after the 10-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t burn. The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly charred. If you’re using a thicker crust or more toppings, you may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time. Avoid overcooking, as the mushrooms and onions can dry out if left in the oven too long.

As soon as the pizza is out of the oven, let it rest for 1-2 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes slicing easier. Use a sharp pizza cutter or knife to divide the pizza into even slices. Be careful, as the pizza will be very hot. If the cheese is sticking to the cutter, wipe it clean between slices for neat cuts. The resting time also helps the flavors meld together, ensuring each bite is as delicious as possible.

Finally, garnish the pizza with fresh basil leaves to add a burst of freshness and color. Tear the basil leaves by hand instead of chopping them to preserve their aroma and texture. Sprinkle the basil over the pizza just before serving to prevent it from wilting under the heat. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms and onions pair beautifully with the herbal notes of the basil, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.

Serve the pizza immediately while it’s still hot and the crust is at its crispiest. Pair it with a side salad or a simple garlic knot for a complete meal. Enjoy the combination of the savory mushrooms, sweet caramelized onions, melted cheese, and fragrant basil in every bite. This mushroom and onion pizza is perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.

Frequently asked questions

You’ll need pizza dough, olive oil, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, fresh mushrooms (sliced), onions (thinly sliced), garlic (minced), salt, pepper, and optional herbs like oregano or basil.

Sauté the sliced onions and mushrooms in olive oil over medium heat until they’re softened and slightly caramelized. Add minced garlic toward the end for extra flavor.

It’s not necessary, but par-baking the dough for 5–7 minutes can help ensure a crispy crust. If you skip this step, just ensure the dough is fully cooked after adding toppings.

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake the pizza for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.

Absolutely! Popular additions include spinach, bell peppers, olives, or even a drizzle of truffle oil after baking for extra richness.

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