Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the leaves start to turn and the air gains that crisp bite, there’s a special comfort in bringing fall flavors to the table. That’s where my 5 Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza comes in, transforming simple, seasonal ingredients into a cozy masterpiece. With its creamy pumpkin base paired with the rich, nutty allure of gouda and the sweet aroma of caramelized onions, this pizza offers an effortless alternative to ordinary takeout that will make your weeknight dinners feel extraordinary. Not only is it a quick prep, but it also satisfies both vegetarians and pizza lovers alike, making it a versatile dish for gatherings or solo indulgence. Are you ready to embrace the flavors of fall in every delightful slice? Why is This Pizza a Fall Favorite? Simplicity: With just five ingredients, this pizza showcases how easy it is to embrace fall flavors—perfect for busy nights. Rich Texture: The creamy pumpkin puree combined with gooey gouda creates a decadent mouthfeel that elevates your typical pizza experience. Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, even your non-vegetarian friends will rave about this unique twist on comfort food. Versatile: Feel free to add toppings like roasted vegetables or crumbled Italian sausage for a custom creation that suits any palate. Quick Prep: Made in under 30 minutes, this pizza is a time-saving option that keeps you out of the fast food lane. Seasonal Delight: Each bite transports you to a cozy autumn day, making it the ultimate flavor fix as the temperatures drop. Enjoy it alongside a refreshing salad or with a slice of Lemon Pizza Refreshing for the perfect fall meal! Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Ingredients For the Pizza Base Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and helps caramelize onions; substitute with vegetable oil if needed. Fresh pizza dough (16 oz) – Forms the crust’s foundation; gluten-free pizza dough works for gluten-free options. Canned pumpkin puree (3/4 cup) – Acts as a creamy sauce base; do not use pumpkin pie filling as a substitute. For the Toppings Yellow onion – Provides savory sweetness when caramelized; shallots can be used for a milder flavor. Garlic cloves – Enhances aroma and flavor; adjust quantity based on preference or omit for a lighter touch. Freshly grated gouda cheese (5 oz) – Gives a nutty and creamy texture; mozzarella or fontina can substitute well. For Seasoning Kosher salt – Balances the flavors beautifully; sea salt can be a suitable alternative. Crushed red pepper flakes – Adds an optional kick of spice; simply omit if you prefer a milder pizza. For Garnish Fresh parsley (optional) – Sprinkles freshness and color on your pizza; basil or other herbs can also be delightful. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Step 1: Caramelize the Onions In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced yellow onions and sauté for about 7-8 minutes until soft. Lower the heat and continue cooking for an additional 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn a beautiful blond color. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add minced garlic, a pinch of kosher salt, and optionally, some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Pizza Base While the onions are caramelizing, preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up. On a floured surface, stretch or roll out 16 oz of fresh pizza dough into a 12-14 inch round. Carefully transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper, then poke holes all over with a fork to prevent bubbling while baking. Step 3: Spread the Pumpkin Base Once the dough is ready, spread 3/4 cup of canned pumpkin puree evenly over the surface, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges. This creamy pumpkin layer will serve as the lush base for your Pizza and provide that seasonal comfort you’ve been craving. Step 4: Add Toppings Distribute the caramelized onion mixture evenly across the pumpkin-covered dough, ensuring each bite is filled with sweet and savory flavors. Next, sprinkle 5 oz of freshly grated gouda cheese liberally over the top, allowing it to melt beautifully as it bakes and adds rich flavor to your delicious Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza. Step 5: Bake the Pizza Carefully slide the pizza (with parchment) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp, and the gouda cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep an eye on it as it approaches the end of the cooking time to prevent over-browning. Step 6: Garnish and Serve Once done baking, remove the Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Slice into 8 pieces and serve warm, enjoying the cozy flavors of fall in every delightful bite. What to Serve with 5 Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza As you savor each slice of this seasonal delight, consider pairing it with dishes that enhance the cozy flavors of fall. Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the pizza, adding a light, crisp texture. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty, caramelized flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts complement the savory gouda and pumpkin beautifully, enhancing your meal’s warmth. Warm Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread dipped in marinara not only provides a crunchy contrast but also adds a comforting Italian twist to your dining experience. Apple Cider Mimosa: For a delightful drink pairing, try a sparkling apple cider mimosa. The sweetness plays well with the savory elements of the pizza, making it festive. Pumpkin Soup: Embrace the pumpkin theme with a creamy pumpkin soup. This harmonious addition not only highlights seasonal flavors but also warms the soul. Chocolaty Dessert: Finish your meal with a slice of chocolate pecan pie. The sweet richness of the pie pairs with the savory pumpkin and gouda, crafting a perfect end to your meal. These pairings truly capture the essence of fall, allowing your 5 Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza to shine at the center of a delightful dining experience. How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Fridge: Store leftover pumpkin and gouda pizza in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. This preserves flavor and texture. Reheating: Reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen slices in the fridge overnight before reheating or use the defrost function on your microwave for a quicker option. Helpful Tricks for Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Onion Caramelization: Patience is key! Cook onions low and slow to achieve the best flavor without burning. Rushed cooking leads to uneven caramelization. Dough Temperature: Always allow the pizza dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out. Cold dough can be challenging to stretch properly and may result in a tough crust. Pumpkin Purity: Always use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for a savory base that’s creamy and rich. It ensures the flavors remain balanced in your Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza. Baking Watch: Keep a close eye on your pizza towards the end of baking. The difference between a perfectly golden crust and a burnt one can be just a minute or two! Garnishing Alert: Don’t skip fresh herbs! They not only add a splash of color but also bring a fresh brightness to your pizza, enhancing the overall flavor profile beautifully. Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Variations Feel free to make this delightful dish your own with simple tweaks and personal touches! Each variation can enhance flavors or accommodate dietary preferences. Meat Lover’s Twist: Add crumbled Italian sausage before baking for a savory, heartier version. The richness of the sausage pairs perfectly with the creamy pumpkin. Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. The added greens will create a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Herb Infusion: Swap out parsley for fresh basil or thyme to elevate the aromatic profile. Fresh herbs add a layer of delicious brightness that complements the richness. Cheesy Delight: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a stringy texture or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings a unique character to your pizza. Spicy Kick: Infuse some excitement with jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This will bring a delightful heat that balances well with the sweet pumpkin. Pesto Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of pesto for a burst of flavor right before serving. The herby, garlicky notes create a fresh contrast to the creamy pumpkin base. Sweet and Savory: Add a light drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet-tart finish. This elevates the entire experience, making every bite a delight. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza crust instead of traditional dough to make this dish accessible. It’s just as satisfying and ensures everyone can enjoy this fall favorite! Pair your Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza with a refreshing side salad or indulge in a slice of Cheesy Ranch Potatoes for a complete meal that celebrates autumn flavors! Make Ahead Options These 5 Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza preparations are fantastic for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can caramelize the onions and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, ensuring you keep that sweet flavor intact. Additionally, the pizza dough can be made and frozen for up to 3 months; just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before using. To keep the pumpkin puree fresh, store it in the fridge and use it within 24 hours. When it’s time to enjoy your pizza, simply spread the pumpkin puree on the dough, top with your onions and gouda, and bake as instructed for a delicious weeknight meal that feels gourmet with minimal effort! 5 Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree? Absolutely! For the best results, choose canned pumpkin puree that contains 100% pumpkin without any additives or sweeteners. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains spices and sugars that will alter the flavor of your pizza. You want that fresh, natural pumpkin flavor to shine through in your 5 Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza! How do I store leftover Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza? For sure! Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let your pizza cool completely before sealing it—this helps maintain its delicious crispy texture while keeping the flavors fresh. Can I freeze my Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will allow you to enjoy your pizza at a later date while keeping flavors intact. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. What’s the best way to reheat frozen pizza? I often recommend reheating frozen slices in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm and the cheese is melted. Alternatively, you can use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes. Both methods bring back that delightful freshness! How can I accommodate dietary restrictions when making this pizza? Very easy! For gluten-free options, simply choose a gluten-free pizza dough. If you need a dairy-free alternative, consider using vegan cheese that melts well. Also, remember to check labels for any allergies, like the garlic or spices, and adjust according to your needs. What’s the key to caramelizing onions properly? Very importantly, always cook your onions low and slow! Start with medium heat, then reduce to low, stirring occasionally. This can take about 30 minutes to achieve that golden-brown color and sweet flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin and gouda in your pizza. Rushing this step leads to burnt or unevenly caramelized onions, which we definitely want to avoid! Savory Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza: Your Fall Flavor Fix Experience the delightful fall flavors of Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza with this cozy masterpiece ready in under 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pizza Base2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Adds richness and helps caramelize onions; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.16 ounces fresh pizza dough Forms the crust's foundation; gluten-free pizza dough works for gluten-free options.3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree Acts as a creamy sauce base; do not use pumpkin pie filling as a substitute.For the Toppings1 yellow onion Provides savory sweetness when caramelized; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.2 cloves garlic Enhances aroma and flavor; adjust quantity based on preference or omit for a lighter touch.5 ounces freshly grated gouda cheese Gives a nutty and creamy texture; mozzarella or fontina can substitute well.For Seasoning1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Balances the flavors beautifully; sea salt can be a suitable alternative.1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Adds an optional kick of spice; simply omit if you prefer a milder pizza.For Garnish1 tablespoon fresh parsley Optional; sprinkles freshness and color on your pizza. Equipment SkilletPizza stoneRolling PinBaking sheet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin and Gouda PizzaIn a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced yellow onions and sauté for about 7-8 minutes until soft. Lower the heat and continue cooking for an additional 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn a beautiful blond color. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add minced garlic, a pinch of kosher salt, and optionally, some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.While the onions are caramelizing, preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up. On a floured surface, stretch or roll out 16 oz of fresh pizza dough into a 12-14 inch round. Carefully transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper, then poke holes all over with a fork to prevent bubbling while baking.Once the dough is ready, spread 3/4 cup of canned pumpkin puree evenly over the surface, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.Distribute the caramelized onion mixture evenly across the pumpkin-covered dough, ensuring each bite is filled with sweet and savory flavors. Next, sprinkle 5 oz of freshly grated gouda cheese liberally over the top.Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp, and the gouda cheese is bubbly and melted.Once done baking, remove the Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Slice into 8 pieces and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 8gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 60IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 6mg NotesStore leftover pumpkin and gouda pizza in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
