Savory Pumpkin Pizza with Havarti and Caramelized Onions Recipe
This savory pumpkin pizza brings together the creamy richness of pumpkin puree with sweet caramelized onions, mild and meltable Havarti cheese, and fresh, peppery arugula. A perfect fall-inspired pizza, this dish balances sweet, savory, and fresh flavors over a crispy crust, making it a unique and delicious dinner option.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 25 Minutes
- Total Time: 40 Minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings (1 pizza) 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Pizza Base
- 1 ready-to-bake pizza dough
Pumpkin Mixture
- 1.5 cups pumpkin puree
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, diced
- ½ tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Remaining half of the diced sweet onion (from 1 onion)
Caramelized Onions
- Half of the diced sweet onion (from 1 onion)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Extra virgin olive oil (for cooking onions)
Toppings
- 2 cups freshly grated Havarti cheese
- 1 cup arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling if desired)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to warm as it heats up to ensure a crispy crust.
- Caramelize Onions. Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add half of the diced sweet onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. Midway through cooking, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sugar to enhance the sweetness, and continue until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
- Prepare Pumpkin Mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, minced garlic, diced shallot, chopped fresh thyme, the remaining half of the diced onions (uncooked), and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth and well-seasoned pumpkin topping.
- Prepare Dough. Follow the package instructions for the pizza dough preparation, then flatten it into a circular shape that will fit your pizza stone or baking sheet, using your hands or a rolling pin.
- Assemble Pizza. Transfer the flattened dough onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Evenly spread the pumpkin mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Layer the caramelized onions on top, followed by a handful of fresh arugula. Finally, generously sprinkle the grated Havarti cheese evenly over the pizza. Add extra salt and pepper if desired.
- Bake Pizza. Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes according to the dough package instructions. For a crispier crust and more bubbly cheese, bake it for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Serve. Remove the pizza from the oven, slice it, and serve immediately while hot with melted cheese. Optionally drizzle with extra virgin olive oil or balsamic glaze for added richness and flavor.
Notes
- Using a pizza stone is recommended to achieve a crispier crust, but a baking sheet will work if you don’t have one.
- Caramelizing all of the onions instead of half yields a deeper, sweeter onion flavor.
- Adjust baking time depending on how crispy or soft you prefer the crust.
- For a flavor twist, top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for heat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven for best texture or microwave for convenience.
Keywords: Pizza, Pumpkin, Fall Recipes, Dinner, Savory Pumpkin Pizza, Caramelized Onions, Havarti Cheese, Arugula Pizza
