As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s something undeniably magical about the scents that fill our kitchens. This season, I found myself craving a cozy yet unique dish that celebrates the warmth of fall. Enter my 5 Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza—a delightful twirl on traditional pizza that pairs creamy pumpkin puree with melty gouda cheese, all topped with sweet, caramelized onions and aromatic garlic. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; with minimal ingredients and a quick prep time, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you’d rather skip takeout. Plus, it’s vegetarian and so satisfying that even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds! Are you ready to experience a slice of fall on a plate? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why is Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza a Must-Try? Simplicity at Its Best: With just five ingredients, this pizza is perfect for those who want to create homemade dishes without breaking a sweat. Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and gouda cheese offers a unique flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Family and friends will love this savory twist on pizza, making it a great choice for gatherings. Versatile Options: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings, such as fresh spinach or even sauteed mushrooms, to make it your own! Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings when you crave something hearty without the wait—try serving it alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal! Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Ingredients For the Pizza Base • Fresh pizza dough – Forms the foundation of your pizza; gluten-free pizza dough works if preferred. • Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and helps caramelize onions; use any neutral oil in its place. For the Flavor • Yellow onion – Provides sweetness through caramelization; substitute with white onion if necessary. • Garlic cloves – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; garlic powder can be a quick alternative, but fresh is best! • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of heat for those who enjoy a kick; skip if you prefer mild flavors. For the Toppings • Canned pumpkin puree – Acts as the creamy sauce packed with fall flavor; fresh pumpkin or butternut squash puree can be used. • Freshly grated gouda cheese – Melts beautifully, adding indulgent creaminess; cheddar or mozzarella are suitable substitutes. • Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all other flavors; sea salt can also work here. For Garnish (Optional) • Fresh chopped parsley – Brings a splash of color and fresh taste; basil can be a lovely alternative to change up the aroma! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Step 1: Caramelize the Onions In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 sliced yellow onion and sauté for about 7-10 minutes until soft and translucent. Reduce the heat to low and continue caramelizing for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are a beautiful blonde color. For the last 5 minutes, mix in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and, if desired, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up. This step is crucial for achieving a crisp crust in your Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza. Allow the oven to preheat fully while you get the dough ready, ensuring a golden finish when you bake. Step 3: Dough Prep On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out your fresh pizza dough into a 12-14 inch round. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; rustic shapes add charm! Transfer the rolled dough onto a piece of parchment paper and pierce it with a fork. This will help prevent bubbles from forming while baking your delicious pizza. Step 4: Top and Bake Spread a generous layer of canned pumpkin puree over the pizza dough, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Evenly distribute the caramelized onion and garlic mixture on top of the pumpkin layer, followed by a generous handful of freshly grated gouda cheese. Slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. Step 5: Serve Once the Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza is out of the oven, let it cool for a minute. If you like, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for added color and flavor before slicing it into 8 pieces. Serve warm and enjoy this cozy fall treat with family or friends. Make Ahead Options These 5 Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can caramelize the onions and garlic up to 3 days in advance, allowing their flavors to deepen; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the pizza dough 24 hours beforehand, wrapping it tightly in plastic to keep it from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply roll out the dough, spread the pumpkin puree, top with the caramelized mixture and gouda cheese, and bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12-15 minutes. This method ensures you’ll enjoy a warm, comforting pizza on busy nights with minimal last-minute effort! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Fridge: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To maintain freshness, make sure they’re well wrapped to prevent sogginess. Freezer: If you want to store your Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza for longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheating: For the best results, reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat to regain crispiness. Add a few droplets of water to the pan, cover it, and let the steam melt the cheese evenly. Avoiding Sogginess: To keep the crust crispy when reheating, don’t microwave the pizza, as excess moisture can make it soggy. What to Serve with 5 Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza As the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin and gouda fills your kitchen, it’s the perfect moment to consider delightful pairings that will elevate your meal to cozy perfection. Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pizza, brightening each bite. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies, lightly seasoned and crisped, enhances the cozy feel while complementing the pizza’s flavors. Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft within, they make for a satisfying side that pairs well with the richness of the gouda. Apple Cider: A glass of spiced apple cider imparts a seasonal sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory elements of your pizza. Cranberry Sauce: This sweet-tart addition can act as a fun dip that brings a pop of color and flavor alongside each slice. Herbed Olive Oil: Drizzling infused olive oil over the finished pizza provides a rich, aromatic kick that enhances the delicious layers. Pumpkin Spice Latte: For those cool evenings, this warm drink adds a sweet, spicy note that resonates with the fall theme of the dish. Chocolaty Dessert: End the meal with a small slice of dark chocolate brownie, creating a satisfying balance of savory and sweet complexities. Cheese Board: Include a variety of cheeses and nuts that echo the flavors of your pizza, creating a pleasing selection for a cozy gathering. Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Variations Feel free to personalize your pizza experience by exploring these delightful variations that celebrate your taste buds! Meat Lover’s Touch: Add cooked Italian sausage on top to bring a hearty flavor to your Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza. The savory richness of the sausage complements the creamy pumpkin perfectly. Veggie Delight: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a nutritious boost. These additions not only enhance flavor but also create a colorful, appetizing dish. Cheesy Goodness: Swap gouda for ricotta for a creamier texture or opt for tangy feta for a bold twist. Each cheese lends its unique character to the pizza while maintaining that comforting feel. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate dietary restrictions. This way, everyone at your table can enjoy a slice without worry! Herb Garden: Add fresh basil or arugula on top after baking to amplify that aromatic freshness. These herbs elevate the flavor profile and add a beautiful pop of color. Sweet Heat: For those who enjoy a kick, sprinkle some jalapeños or drizzle sriracha on top before serving. The heat will beautifully contrast with the sweet pumpkin. Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for crunch and an earthy undertone. These nuts bring an extra layer of texture that complements the smoothness of the cheese. Italian Twist: Try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the baked pizza for a sweet and tangy finish. It ties all the flavors together in a lovely, savory symphony. For more inspiring pizzas, don’t forget to check out my delicious Air Fryer Pizza and Pepperoni Pizza Roll. Happy cooking! Expert Tips for Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza • Stay Low and Slow: Caramelizing onions over low heat yields maximum sweetness and flavor. High heat can lead to bitterness, so be patient! • Crispy Crust Magic: For the best texture, use a pre-heated pizza stone. It helps achieve that golden, crispy crust everyone loves. • Avoid Dough Bubbles: Don’t forget to pierce your pizza dough with a fork before adding toppings! This little step prevents pesky bubbles from forming while baking. • Substitutions Simplified: If you’re out of gouda cheese, cheddar or mozzarella works well—don’t fret; make it your own without compromising on taste! • Garnish Gets Fancy: Add fresh herbs like basil or arugula on top after baking for a burst of flavor and a gorgeous presentation. • Save Those Leftovers: Any uneaten slices? Store them in an airtight container, and feel free to reheat them in a skillet for that crispiness you crave! Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best pumpkin puree for my pizza? Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, go for canned puree that’s 100% pumpkin without any additives. If using fresh pumpkin, make sure it’s ripe, with a firm texture and deep orange color. Avoid pumpkins with dark spots or blemishes, as they may indicate spoilage. What’s the best way to store leftover slices of Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza? Very easy! Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the slices are well wrapped to stop them from becoming soggy. If you have more pizza than you can eat, don’t worry; it can be frozen! Can I freeze my Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza? How? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air gets in, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This will keep them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. What should I do if my pizza dough is bubbling while baking? If you notice your pizza dough bubbling up, it means that it wasn’t pierced enough with a fork before baking. Don’t worry; it happens! Next time, just ensure to pierce the dough well before adding your toppings, which helps steam escape and prevents bubbles. Is this Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza suitable for vegetarians? Yes! This recipe is indeed vegetarian, but if you’re cooking for someone with allergies, it’s wise to remind them that it contains cheese. If you want to accommodate a vegan diet, consider using vegan cheese and a plant-based dough to make it fully vegetarian-friendly. Can I add other toppings to my Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza? The more the merrier! Feel free to add cooked Italian sausage or seasonal vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overload the pizza so it cooks evenly without becoming soggy. Savory Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza: Fall’s Cozy Delight Experience the warm flavors of fall with this delicious Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza, featuring creamy pumpkin puree and melty gouda cheese. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: Italian, VegetarianCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pizza Base1 package fresh pizza dough gluten-free pizza dough works if preferred.2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil use any neutral oil in its place.For the Flavor1 medium yellow onion substitute with white onion if necessary.2 cloves garlic fresh is best!1 teaspoon kosher salt sea salt can also work here.1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes optional for a hint of heat.For the Toppings1 cup canned pumpkin puree fresh pumpkin or butternut squash puree can be used.1 cup freshly grated gouda cheese cheddar or mozzarella are suitable substitutes.1 tablespoon kosher salt to enhance flavors.For Garnish (Optional)2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley basil can be used as an alternative. Equipment SkilletOvenpizza stoneParchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 sliced yellow onion and sauté for about 7-10 minutes until soft and translucent. Reduce the heat to low and continue caramelizing for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are a beautiful blonde color. For the last 5 minutes, mix in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and, if desired, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out your fresh pizza dough into a 12-14 inch round. Transfer the rolled dough onto a piece of parchment paper and pierce it with a fork.Spread a generous layer of canned pumpkin puree over the pizza dough, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Evenly distribute the caramelized onion and garlic mixture on top, followed by a handful of freshly grated gouda cheese. Bake for 12-15 minutes.Once out of the oven, let it cool for a minute, and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top if desired. Slice into 8 pieces and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesFor the best texture, use a pre-heated pizza stone. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
