This Mushroom Pizza is a perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness and earthy mushrooms, all topped with fresh basil and garlic. The crust is crispy, the cheese is melted to perfection, and every bite bursts with flavor. It’s a simple yet decadent dish that can easily become a weeknight favorite or a hit at any gathering.
What makes this pizza even better is how customizable it is. You can mix and match different types of mushrooms or even switch up the sauce for a creamy Alfredo variation. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or just in the mood for a comforting meal, this mushroom pizza is sure to satisfy all your cravings.
Full Recipe:
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1/2 tablespoon crushed garlic
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2 tablespoons thinly sliced basil
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
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Semolina flour (optional, for the pizza peel)
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1/2 cup marinara sauce or pizza sauce
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1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese or gruyere
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1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
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8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 500°F. If using a pizza stone, let it heat for 30 minutes.
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In a small bowl, mix crushed garlic, basil, and olive oil together, and set aside.
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Roll or stretch pizza dough into a large circle. If using a pizza stone, sprinkle semolina flour on the pizza peel and place the dough on it. If using a baking sheet, place the dough on parchment paper.
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Spread marinara sauce evenly on the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges.
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Sprinkle grated Parmesan or gruyere cheese on top, followed by shredded mozzarella.
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Place the sliced mushrooms on top, then drizzle the garlic and basil olive oil mixture.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 6-9 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
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Optional: Serve with extra garlic oil drizzle.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 9 minutes | Total Time: 19 minutes
The Beauty of Mushrooms on Pizza
Mushrooms are one of those ingredients that can truly elevate a dish. Their natural umami flavor pairs beautifully with the rich taste of cheese, especially when combined with a drizzle of garlic and fresh basil oil. This pizza allows the mushrooms to shine as the main topping, but you can easily experiment with different types to suit your personal taste. Whether you use button mushrooms, cremini, portobello, or even more exotic varieties like truffles or chanterelles, each offers a unique flavor profile that enhances the overall pizza experience.
For those who love a more earthy flavor, opt for mushrooms like shiitake or maitake. These varieties can add a deep, rich taste to the pizza. For a milder experience, cremini or white mushrooms are ideal. What’s great about this recipe is its flexibility—you can mix and match different mushrooms to create a truly personalized pizza.
A Quick and Easy Dinner Idea
When you’re craving a hearty pizza without the need for meat, mushroom pizza is the perfect choice. This recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it an excellent go-to for busy evenings. The base of the pizza starts with your favorite store-bought or homemade dough, a choice of sauce, and a delightful blend of cheeses. The key ingredient, however, is the mushrooms. These provide a meaty texture and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the garlic and fresh basil. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, and you can have a piping hot pizza ready in under half an hour.
The Perfect Pizza for Any Occasion
Mushroom pizza is versatile enough to be served at various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a pizza night with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Pair it with garlic knots or a fresh Caesar salad to create a full meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your stomach. The crispy crust, melted cheese, and savory mushrooms create a flavor profile that is hard to resist.
Another fun twist on this recipe is transforming it into a white pizza by swapping the marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce. The Alfredo sauce complements the mushrooms perfectly, adding richness to the dish. This variation is especially great for those who prefer a creamy pizza rather than the traditional tomato-based one.
Tips for Success
To ensure that your mushroom pizza turns out perfectly every time, a few key tips will make all the difference. Firstly, there’s no need to pre-cook the mushrooms before adding them to the pizza. Fresh mushrooms will release their moisture as they bake, and this will enhance the flavor. However, if you prefer cooked mushrooms, consider using an air fryer to give them a crisp, caramelized texture before adding them to the pizza.
When preparing the pizza, make sure to slice the mushrooms thinly and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture. This prevents the pizza from becoming soggy, which is a common issue when using mushrooms as a topping. Additionally, don’t overload your pizza with too much sauce. A thin layer of marinara sauce is all you need to bring the right amount of flavor without overwhelming the dough.
Storing and Reheating Mushroom Pizza
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Mushroom pizza stores quite well. You can keep leftover slices in an airtight container or resealable bag in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, place the slices in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until they’re warmed through and the cheese is once again gooey and melted.
If you prefer to freeze the pizza, it’s best to freeze the slices in a single layer on a lined baking sheet until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the slices to an airtight container or resealable bag, and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the pizza again, simply let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Conclusion: Why Mushroom Pizza is a Must-Try
Mushroom pizza is a delightful and satisfying dish that can be made quickly and easily. With its savory mushrooms, rich cheese, and the fragrant garlic-basil oil, this pizza is full of flavor and a perfect meal for any night of the week. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity, allowing you to enjoy a comforting pizza without the need for meat. Plus, the versatility of the recipe means you can switch up the toppings or sauces to suit your taste preferences.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, craving a homemade pizza night, or simply looking for a comforting meal, mushroom pizza should be at the top of your list. It’s a timeless favorite that everyone will love, and it’s simple enough to make any time the mood strikes.