Imagine a pizza that transforms the humble butternut squash into a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with delight! This Pizza Calabaza isn't just another pizza recipe - it's a seasonal sensation that bridges the gap between rustic Italian cuisine and autumn's most beloved vegetable. Perfect for those looking to elevate their pizza game, this recipe promises a creamy, savory experience that will have your dinner guests wondering how you became such a kitchen genius.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough
- 2 cups butternut squash, roasted and mashed
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces. Toss the squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the squash cubes evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the edges are golden and the squash is tender.
- While the squash is roasting, slice the onions thinly and set aside.
- Remove the roasted squash from the oven and mash it with a fork or potato masher until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Increase the oven temperature to 475°F (246°C) for baking the pizza.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, typically about 12 inches in diameter.
- Brush the remaining olive oil over the pizza dough, ensuring even coverage.
- Spread the mashed roasted butternut squash evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the squash, then distribute the sliced onions on top.
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for 2-3 minutes, slice, and serve hot.
Tips
- Roasting is Key: Take your time roasting the butternut squash. The caramelization adds depth of flavor and creates a rich, creamy base for your pizza.
- Moisture Management: After roasting, let the squash cool slightly before mashing to prevent excess water from making your pizza base soggy.
- Cheese Selection: While mozzarella works great, consider mixing in some parmesan or fontina for additional flavor complexity.
- Crust Matters: For extra crispiness, pre-bake your pizza dough for 2-3 minutes before adding toppings.
- Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh thyme or sage leaves after baking to add a fresh, aromatic touch that complements the squash perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 283kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 18mg
