Best Butternut Squash Pizza Recipe
Sweet, savory, and irresistibly delicious butternut squash pizza made from scratch.
There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, caramelized butternut squash and creamy cheeses on a crisp, homemade pizza crust. This recipe, inspired by Food52’s popular Caramelized Butternut Squash Pizza, delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will make it a new favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this pizza is approachable, satisfying, and full of autumnal warmth.
Why This Butternut Squash Pizza Stands Out
What sets this pizza apart is the thoughtful layering of flavors. The butternut squash is roasted until deeply caramelized, bringing out its natural sweetness. Maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that complements the squash, while coriander and cayenne provide a gentle warmth. The blend of ricotta and mozzarella creates a creamy, gooey base, and the final touch of flaky salt elevates every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious pizza. The recipe is designed for four small pizzas, perfect for sharing or meal prepping.
Pizza Dough
- 135 grams (about ⅔ cup) lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 205 grams (about 1¾ cups) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
Toppings
- 1 pound butternut squash, halved lengthwise, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup, plus more for finishing
- Kosher salt
- 1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons coriander seeds
- ½ teaspoon ground cayenne
- 400 grams (about 1¾ cups) ricotta
- 400 grams low-moisture mozzarella, grated (about 3½ cups)
- 1 medium shallot, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- Flaky salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a medium bowl, stir together the lukewarm water, olive oil, maple syrup, and yeast. Let the yeast dissolve for a few minutes, then add the flour and salt. Mix with a fork or spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough for about 2 minutes, until there are no more dry spots. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it proof in a warm spot for 1½ to 2 hours, until doubled in size.
Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash
While the dough is proofing, preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the butternut squash on a parchment-lined rimmed sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, coriander seeds, and cayenne. Toss to coat, then spread into an even layer. Roast for 30 to 40 minutes, flipping the squash halfway through, until it’s deeply browned. Transfer the squash to a plate and discard the parchment.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough for Baking
Divide the proofed dough into 4 pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, grease it with olive oil, and let it rest on your work surface, covered, for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven and Sheet Pans
Increase the oven heat to 450°F. Place two sheet pans on the lower racks to heat for 10 minutes (you can reuse the one from roasting the squash).
Step 5: Shape and Par-Bake the Crusts
Dust each dough ball with flour, then use your hands to pat and stretch it into a circle 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Remove the hot sheet pans from the oven and drizzle each with oil. Evenly divide the four dough circles between the sheet pans. Bake for about 8 minutes—the crust will still be pale at this point, but should be mostly cooked through.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Broil
Take out the sheet pans. Position a rack in the top quarter of the oven and turn on the broiler. To each crust, add a quarter of your toppings: ricotta, mozzarella, shallot, garlic, and squash (and all its crispy seasonings). Brush a little maple syrup on the crusts and sprinkle all over with kosher or flaky salt. One sheet pan at a time, broil the pizzas for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese is gooey and slightly charred. Drizzle with olive oil to finish.
Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Pizza
- Use fresh butternut squash for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the step of roasting the squash—it deepens the flavor and creates a caramelized edge.
- Let the dough rest after shaping to make it easier to stretch.
- Broiling the pizza gives the cheese a nice char and melts it perfectly.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste—add more cayenne for heat or more maple syrup for sweetness.
Why Homemade Dough Makes a Difference
While store-bought dough can work in a pinch, making your own dough from scratch adds a level of flavor and texture that’s hard to beat. The maple syrup in the dough gives it a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the caramelized squash. Plus, the process of proofing and shaping the dough is a rewarding part of the cooking experience.
Flavor Pairings and Variations
This pizza is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Add fresh sage or thyme for an herbal note.
- Swap the mozzarella for fontina or provolone for a different cheese profile.
- Top with arugula or baby spinach after baking for a fresh, peppery bite.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra tang.
Nutritional Highlights
Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. The combination of whole grains in the dough and healthy fats from olive oil makes this pizza a balanced choice for a satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought dough if you’re short on time. Just follow the package instructions for baking.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can roast the squash and make the dough ahead of time. Store the squash in the fridge and let the dough rise in the fridge overnight. Bring both to room temperature before assembling the pizza.
Can I freeze this pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza?
Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. This keeps the crust crisp and the cheese gooey.
Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, acorn squash or honeynut squash can be used as substitutes. Adjust roasting time as needed.
Conclusion
This butternut squash pizza is a celebration of seasonal flavors and homemade goodness. With its sweet, savory, and creamy layers, it’s sure to become a favorite for fall gatherings, cozy nights in, or anytime you want a taste of comfort. Give it a try and enjoy the magic of butternut squash on a crispy, golden crust.
