Name: Spinach Mushroom Red Onion Goat Cheese Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces fresh pizza dough; 1/2 cup red onion (chopped); 1/2 cup baby portabello mushrooms (sliced); 3 cups baby spinach (fresh); 4 ounces goat cheese (crumbled); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (grated); Kosher salt (to taste); Black pepper (freshly cracked, to taste); Olive oil (for drizzling)

There’s something undeniably comforting about pizza, especially when it’s topped with vibrant vegetables and creamy cheese. Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe for Spinach Mushroom Red Onion Goat Cheese Pizza that is not only easy to make but also bursts with flavor. This pizza is perfect for a cozy night in or entertaining friends, and it’s a fantastic way to incorporate some greens into your meal. With a crispy crust and the perfect balance of savory toppings, this pizza is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Spinach Mushroom Red Onion Goat Cheese Pizza is a marvel of textures and flavors. The earthy mushrooms and sweet red onions complement the creamy goat cheese beautifully, while the fresh spinach adds a delightful pop of color and nutrition. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. The best part? You can customize it to your liking, adding your favorite toppings or switching up the cheeses. It’s versatile, satisfying, and full of wholesome ingredients that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this delicious pizza, you will need the following ingredients:

16 ounces fresh pizza dough – This serves as the base and can be homemade or store-bought. Look for a quality dough for the best results.
1/2 cup red onion – chopped, providing a sweet yet tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste.
1/2 cup baby portabello mushrooms – sliced, adding an earthy richness that pairs perfectly with the other toppings.
3 cups baby spinach – fresh and vibrant, it adds a nutritional boost and a beautiful green color.
4 ounces goat cheese – crumbled, giving a creamy texture and tangy flavor that elevates the pizza.
1 cup mozzarella cheese – grated, for that classic melty cheese experience.
Kosher salt – to taste, enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
Black pepper – freshly cracked, adding a bit of heat and complexity.
Olive oil – for drizzling, adding richness and helping the toppings cook evenly.

Gear Checklist

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following gear:

Pizza stone or baking sheet – A pizza stone helps create a crispy crust, while a baking sheet works just as well.
Rolling pin – For rolling out your pizza dough to the desired thickness.
Cutting board and knife – For chopping your veggies and slicing the pizza.
Mixing bowl – For preparing any toppings or tossing the spinach with olive oil.
Oven mitts – To protect your hands when handling hot equipment.

Step-by-Step: Spinach Mushroom Red Onion Goat Cheese Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.

Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your 16 ounces of fresh pizza dough to your desired thickness. Aim for about 12 inches in diameter. If the dough is resistant, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing to roll.

Step 3: Prepare Your Toppings

In a mixing bowl, combine your chopped red onions and sliced baby portabello mushrooms. You can drizzle them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their flavor. Toss the ingredients until well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

Transfer the rolled-out dough to your preheated pizza stone or a lightly greased baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the grated mozzarella cheese over the crust. Next, layer on the sautéed mushrooms and onions, followed by the fresh baby spinach.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Crumble the goat cheese over the pizza, distributing it evenly. Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven using oven mitts. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle with a little more olive oil if desired, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and enjoy every bite of your Spinach Mushroom Red Onion Goat Cheese Pizza!

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you have dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions:

Dairy-Free Cheese – Use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative and a vegan cream cheese for the goat cheese for similar flavors and textures.
Gluten-Free Pizza Dough – Substitute the fresh pizza dough with a gluten-free variety, which is widely available in stores or can be made at home.
Olive Oil – Ensure your olive oil is pure and gluten-free certified if opting for packaged versions.

Chef’s Notes

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Bell peppers, artichokes, or even sun-dried tomatoes can add unique flavors.
For a little kick, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.
For an even richer flavor, sauté the spinach for a minute or two before adding it to the pizza.
Always taste your toppings before adding them to the pizza; adjusting seasoning can make a big difference.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Leftover Spinach Mushroom Red Onion Goat Cheese Pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy crust, you can reheat it in an air fryer for a few minutes.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my pizza crust soggy?

A soggy crust can result from too many wet toppings or not pre-baking the dough. Make sure to pat dry any wet ingredients and consider pre-baking your crust for a few minutes before adding toppings.

How can I make my pizza crust crispier?

For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone and preheat it in the oven. Also, avoid overloading your pizza with toppings and ensure your oven is at the right temperature.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feta cheese offers a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, cream cheese or ricotta can provide creaminess without the strong flavor of goat cheese.

Can I freeze leftover pizza?

Yes, you can freeze leftover pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and create this Spinach Mushroom Red Onion Goat Cheese Pizza. With each slice, you’ll enjoy a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that perfectly complement one another. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this pizza will surely impress. Let’s get cooking!