Caramelized Onion Pizza with Mozzarella

Name: Caramelized Onion Pizza with Mozzarella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pizza dough; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes

When I first decided to make caramelized onion pizza, I had no idea how delicious the combination of sweet, soft onions and creamy mozzarella would be. The process of slowly cooking the onions to bring out their natural sweetness added a new depth to the pizza that I absolutely adored. With the perfect balance of flavors, this pizza quickly became a favorite in our house, and I can't wait to share it with you. It's an amazing dinner option that's both easy to prepare and delightful to eat.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-08T10:42:29.501Z

During one of our pizza nights, I decided to elevate our usual toppings with caramelized onions. The sweet aroma that filled the kitchen was irresistible, and it transformed our pie into something special. I let the onions cook slowly, stirring occasionally, which brought out their natural sugars. The creaminess of the mozzarella paired beautifully with the sweet onions, and I was hooked!

I found that using fresh pizza dough was key to achieving the perfect crust. It gave the pizza a great texture and allowed the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it was surprisingly easy to roll out. Trust me, once you try this pizza, you’ll want to make it again and again!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The rich flavor of caramelized onions that adds a sweet twist to your pizza.
Creamy mozzarella that melts beautifully under the oven's heat.
A delightful combination of textures that will please everyone at the table.

      

Understanding Caramelization

Caramelization is a magical transformation that brings out the natural sugars in onions, turning their sharp flavor into a deep, rich sweetness. For this pizza, it's essential to give your onions enough time to soften and brown properly. Cook them over medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring often. If you notice them sticking to the pan, don't hesitate to add a splash more olive oil or a tablespoon of water to prevent burning while still achieving that golden color.

The right onion choice is equally important. While sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are deliciously sweet, yellow onions are more versatile and commonly used for a well-balanced flavor. If you're looking for a bolder taste, consider using red onions—they have a wonderful color and sweetness but cook a little differently and may take longer to caramelize.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Dough

Using a pre-made pizza dough can save time, but if you're up for it, making your own can elevate this dish. Aim for a dough that has rested sufficiently for at least 1 hour—this relaxing time allows gluten to develop, yielding a chewy yet crisp crust. When rolling out your dough, use flour liberally to prevent sticking, and try to keep it an even thickness for uniform cooking. Aim for about ¼ inch thick for a nice balance of chew and crispness.

Once you've rolled out your dough, don't forget to stretch it gently using your fingers to give it that perfect shape. Allow your dough to rest on the pizza stone or baking sheet for a few minutes before adding toppings; this helps it maintain its shape and ensures a more even bake.

Ingredients

For the Pizza

1 pizza dough
2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Preparation Steps

Steps to Make the Pizza

Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and golden brown, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a pizza stone or baking sheet.

Assemble the Pizza

Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the pizza dough. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake the Pizza

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, slice, and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Pizza!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of balsamic glaze over the finished pizza before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This caramelized onion pizza can be a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a delightful dinner experience. Consider adding arugula or spinach with a light vinaigrette on the side to balance the rich flavors of the pizza. For a unique twist, sprinkle some balsamic glaze over the top just before serving; it complements the sweetness of the onions remarkably well.

If you're entertaining, slice the pizza into small squares and serve it as an appetizer alongside a cheese board featuring assorted cheeses, crackers, and fruits. This approach allows guests to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures, creating a perfect party atmosphere.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain a crisp crust, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a skillet over medium heat, covering it loosely with a lid, which will warm the pizza while keeping the bottom crust crispy.

If you want to prepare in advance, the caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week, allowing you to assemble this pizza quickly whenever cravings strike. For longer storage, consider freezing the onions; just make sure they are cooled completely before doing so, and use them within three months for the best flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-made pizza dough?

Absolutely! Pre-made pizza dough is a great time-saver. Just roll it out and follow the remaining steps.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add your favorites like prosciutto, arugula, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a gourmet twist.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy crust.

→ Can I freeze the assembled pizza?

Yes! Assemble the pizza without baking and wrap well for freezing. Bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time as needed.