Pumpkin and Caramelized Onion Pizza with Havarti and Arugula Recipe

Let me introduce you to a delightfully cozy slice of autumn: the Pumpkin and Caramelized Onion Pizza with Havarti and Arugula Recipe. This is not your everyday pizza—it’s a warm hug of creamy pumpkin, sweet caramelized onions, and mellow Havarti cheese, all topped with fresh peppery arugula. Perfect for those crisp evenings when you want comfort food that feels both indulgent and fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be surprised how a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a pizza bursting with flavor and perfect texture. Each element plays a role—from the subtle sweetness of pumpkin to the sharp notes of parmesan and fresh thyme that elevate every bite.

• Ready-to-bake pizza dough: This forms the crispy, chewy base that holds all the wonderful toppings without getting soggy.
• Pumpkin puree: Packed with creamy richness and natural sweetness, it’s the heart of this pizza’s unique flavor.
• Sweet onion and shallot: Caramelized to bring out their deep, sugary notes that complement the pumpkin perfectly.
• Garlic and fresh thyme: Aromatic helpers that add savory depth and herbal brightness.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty punch that contrasts beautifully with the mild pumpkin and Havarti.
• Havarti cheese: Creamy and softly tangy, it melts like a dream and forms that gooey layer we all love.
• Arugula: Fresh and peppery greens that lighten the pizza and add an exciting bite.
• Extra virgin olive oil: For cooking onions and finishing the pizza with a luscious drizzle.
• Sugar, salt, and pepper: Essential seasoning for balancing the sweet and savory.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations

The beauty of the Pumpkin and Caramelized Onion Pizza with Havarti and Arugula Recipe is how effortlessly you can tweak it to suit your taste buds or what’s on hand. Don’t be shy about making this recipe your own!

• Swap the cheese: Try gouda or fontina for a different mellow-yet-flavorful melty cheese experience.
• Add spice: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky heat.
• Use a different green: Instead of arugula, baby spinach or watercress work wonderfully for a varied fresh bite.
• Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese alternatives and skip the parmesan—for a plant-based fall treat.

How to Make Pumpkin and Caramelized Onion Pizza with Havarti and Arugula Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F, and if you have a pizza stone, place it inside to warm up. The stone ensures a crispy crust that’s golden and inviting. It might seem small, but this step makes a noticeable difference in the final texture.

Step 2: Caramelize Half the Onions

Sauté half of your diced sweet onions gently in olive oil over medium-low heat. Midway, sprinkle in the teaspoon of sugar—this helps coax out their natural sweetness and deepens their flavor. You want them soft, fragrant, and translucent, the perfect topping that melds seamlessly with pumpkin.

Step 3: Mix the Pumpkin Base

In a bowl, combine your pumpkin puree with minced garlic, diced shallot, fresh thyme, and the remaining raw onions. Fold in the freshly grated parmesan for an umami boost. Don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper to bring all these lovely ingredients to life.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Following the package instructions, prepare your pizza dough and roll or stretch it into a circular shape just large enough to fit on your pizza stone. This is your canvas, so try to keep it even for a balanced bake.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pizza

Carefully transfer your dough to the hot pizza stone. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly all over, then scatter your caramelized onions and fresh arugula on top. Generously sprinkle the freshly grated Havarti cheese, and add extra salt and pepper if you like a bit more seasoning punch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake according to your dough package instructions—typically 10 to 12 minutes. For a crisper, golden crust, extend the bake time up to 20-25 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. Once bubbly and inviting, it’s ready to come out!

Allow it to cool slightly before slicing to preserve its beautiful toppings and textures.

How to Serve Pumpkin and Caramelized Onion Pizza with Havarti and Arugula Recipe

Garnishes

For a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor, drizzle your pizza with a touch of quality extra virgin olive oil or a few flakes of red pepper for heat. Fresh thyme sprigs or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the experience and make each bite more vibrant.

Side Dishes

This pizza pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal veggies. A warm butternut squash soup also makes a cozy companion that plays off the pumpkin’s sweetness deliciously.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your pizza and arrange it on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra toppings like chopped nuts or chili oil on the side. You can also create mini personal pizzas using this recipe as a base, perfect for gatherings where everyone can customize their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep that lovely pizza texture, avoid piling arugula on before refrigerating—instead, add fresh greens after reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze baked pizza slices by wrapping each tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then placing them in a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge for best reheating results.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, reheat your pizza in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. This restores the crispy crust and melty cheese while keeping the toppings fresh and delicious. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something a little different yet irresistibly comforting, this Pumpkin and Caramelized Onion Pizza with Havarti and Arugula Recipe is a winner. It’s fun to make, beautiful to serve, and absolutely delicious to eat—perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself on a cozy night in. Give it a go and enjoy a slice of autumn bliss any time you like!

Print