Butternut Squash Pizza from True Food Kitchen features a thin, crispy crust topped with roasted butternut squash, caramelized onions, feta cheese, and fresh sage, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors in every bite.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or spatula
- Rolling pin (if making dough)
- Skillet (for caramelizing onions)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry brush (optional, for oiling crust)
Ingredients
- 1 ball pizza dough
- 1 small butternut squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves
- Salt
- Black pepper
Selecting a small butternut squash ensures tender, evenly roasted pieces that complement the pizza's thin crust. Use fresh sage leaves to bring a bright, herbal note that balances the sweetness of the caramelized onions and roasted squash. Measuring the olive oil precisely helps achieve a crispy crust without greasiness. Caramelize the yellow onion slowly in a skillet with balsamic vinegar to develop rich, deep flavors. Your copycat Butternut Squash Pizza from True Food Kitchen should perfectly replicate the sweet, savory, and earthy flavor profile of the original dish.
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Peel, seed, and dice butternut squash.
- Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Roast butternut squash on baking sheet until tender; set aside.
- Thinly slice onion.
- Caramelize onions in skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil and pinch of salt.
- Add balsamic vinegar to onions and cook until absorbed; set aside.
- Roll out pizza dough on floured surface to desired thickness.
- Place dough on parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Lightly brush crust with olive oil (optional).
- Evenly spread roasted butternut squash over crust.
- Distribute caramelized onions over squash.
- Sprinkle feta cheese across the pizza.
- Add fresh sage leaves (whole or chopped).
- Season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
- Bake pizza until crust is golden and cheese is slightly browned.
- Remove from oven, slice, and serve immediately.
Substitution
The Butternut Squash Pizza from True Food Kitchen copycat recipe uses fresh butternut squash for a sweet and earthy topping, but you can substitute with roasted pumpkin or sweet potato if butternut squash is unavailable. If you don't have fresh sage, dried sage or fresh thyme will also complement the flavors well. Using pre-made pizza dough can save preparation time, but homemade dough offers a better texture and flavor. When caramelizing onions, low heat and patience ensure sweetness without burning, enhancing the overall depth of the pizza. Your choice of baking surface--pizza stone or baking sheet--will affect the crust's crispiness, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Tips
To ensure your butternut squash roasts evenly, cut the pieces into uniform sizes around 1/2 inch. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to promote proper caramelization and tenderness. When caramelizing onions, maintain medium heat and stir occasionally to prevent burning, allowing the balsamic vinegar to fully absorb for deeper flavor. For a crispier crust, preheat your baking stone or sheet thoroughly before placing the dough, and consider brushing the edges with olive oil to enhance browning and texture.
Nutritions
Butternut Squash Pizza provides a nutrient-rich meal packed with vitamins A and C from the roasted squash, supporting immune health and vision. Feta cheese adds a good source of protein and calcium, essential for muscle function and bone strength. Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while caramelized onions and fresh sage offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Your body benefits from a balanced combination of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein in this flavorful dish.
Storage
To store your Butternut Squash Pizza, allow it to cool completely before placing slices in an airtight container or wrapping tightly with aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat the pizza in a preheated oven at 350degF for 8-10 minutes to restore its crispy crust and melt the cheese evenly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture and milder flavor. Roast the butternut squash with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cumin to add a smoky or warm spice profile. Try using caramelized shallots or red onions instead of yellow onions for a sweeter, more delicate taste. For a gluten-free option, prepare the pizza with a cauliflower crust or a pre-made gluten-free dough.
Allergies
This Butternut Squash Pizza contains feta cheese, which is a common allergen due to its dairy content and can cause reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The presence of pizza dough also introduces gluten, potentially triggering symptoms for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. You should always check ingredient labels and inform the kitchen of any allergies to ensure your meal is safe to enjoy.
Why this recipe?
Butternut Squash Pizza at True Food Kitchen delights customers with its unique blend of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors, featuring roasted butternut squash, mozzarella, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze. This dish appeals to health-conscious diners because it uses nutrient-dense ingredients rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, making it both delicious and wholesome. Recreating this copycat recipe allows you to enjoy a gourmet, nutrient-packed meal at home that balances taste and nutrition with fresh, seasonal produce. Your kitchen experience will be elevated by mastering a sought-after menu item that offers a refreshing alternative to traditional pizzas.