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: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I can't get enough of this Caramelized Onion Pizza with Mozzarella! The balance of sweet, caramelized onions and gooey, melty mozzarella is truly irresistible. I love how simple ingredients can transform into something so gourmet. Each bite feels like a celebration, and it’s perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. I always serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top to elevate the flavors even more. This pizza has certainly become a favorite in my household, and I'm excited for you to try it!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:46:33.334Z

Creating this Caramelized Onion Pizza was a delightful experience! I remember the first time I attempted it; I was amazed at how the onions transformed from sharp to sweet as they caramelized slowly. I used a combination of yellow and red onions for depth and flavor. The key here is patience—allowing the onions to cook gently brings out their natural sugars, giving them that rich, deep flavor.

When I pulled the pizza from the oven, the aroma was incredible! The mozzarella melted beautifully, bubbling up in places, while the caramelized onions created a sweet and savory topping. I like to finish it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor. Every slice is a perfect balance of taste and texture that I can't resist!

        Why You'll Love This Pizza
        Savory sweetness of caramelized onions that enhances every bite
Creamy mozzarella cheese that stretches deliciously with each slice
Simple ingredients come together for a gourmet pizza experience

      

Mastering the Dough

The pizza dough is the foundation of this Caramelized Onion Pizza, and getting it right is crucial. Start by ensuring your water is warm (not hot) when activating the yeast; it should feel like a cozy bath. This helps the yeast bloom properly, resulting in a light and airy crust. Kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes builds gluten, which gives your pizza a chewy texture. Be patient, and allow it to rise until doubled in size, usually around 30 minutes in a warm environment.

If you’re short on time or looking to make things easier, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, let it rise for 30 minutes, then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out. This process enhances flavor and saves you time on busy days.

Caramelizing Onions to Perfection

Caramelizing onions is an art that transforms their sharp flavor into a sweet and rich experience. Start your onions in a dry skillet with a touch of olive oil over medium heat, making sure the pan is not too hot to start. Stir them occasionally, and if they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to avoid burning. Aim for a golden-brown hue, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes. The balsamic vinegar adds acidity and depth, enhancing the sweetness, so don’t skip this step.

If you find your onions sticking to the skillet, don’t worry! Adding a splash of water can help deglaze the pan, lifting up the tasty brown bits. This technique not only enhances flavor but also ensures your onions don’t overcook or burn. If you have extra caramelized onions, they store well in the fridge for a few days and can be added to sandwiches, salads, or even soups.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful pizza:

For the Pizza Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar

For the Topping

2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to prep everything before cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious pizza:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture.

Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Caramelize the Onions

While the dough is rising, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, salt, and pepper. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and caramelized. Stir in balsamic vinegar.

Shape the Pizza

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

Assemble and Bake

Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dough. Place mozzarella slices on top. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and drizzle with additional balsamic glaze if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy the delicious pizza with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an even deeper flavor, try adding a pinch of sugar to the onions while they're caramelizing. It helps enhance their sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Caramelized Onion Pizza even further, consider adding toppings like arugula or goat cheese right after baking. The peppery notes of arugula contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the onions, while goat cheese adds a creamy tang. For a bit of heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes before serving, which complements the savory flavor profile perfectly.

This pizza is a fantastic centerpiece for any gathering, but it also pairs excellently with a simple side salad or a glass of crisp white wine. Consider a light vinaigrette for the salad, which will balance the richness of the pizza nicely. Serving it with a selection of dips or spreads can also create a fun appetizer spread for your guests.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the crust crispy when reheating, I recommend using an oven or a toaster oven rather than a microwave. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pizza for about 5-7 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and the crust is warm again; this method maintains its delicious texture.

If you want to freeze leftover pizza, allow it to cool completely before wrapping slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat it directly from the freezer in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This way, the crust will regain its delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough can save time and still yield great results.

→ What other toppings work well with this pizza?

Feel free to add toppings like arugula, prosciutto, or even goat cheese for extra flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best taste!

→ Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes! Just use a gluten-free pizza dough mix or find a reliable gluten-free pizza crust.