Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a great option for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the carbs. The portobello mushrooms act as a hearty base, packed with flavor and a satisfying texture. The combination of melted mozzarella, savory Parmesan, and Italian seasoning takes this dish to the next level. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pizza toppings. Whether you’re following a vegetarian, gluten-free, or low-carb diet, these mushroom pizzas are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 4 large portobello mushroom caps, stems and gills removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Optional toppings: sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, turkey pepperoni, or fresh basil
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush the mushroom caps with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. Place the mushrooms, gill-side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the mushrooms for 8–10 minutes to release any excess moisture. Once baked, pat them dry with paper towels.
- Spread marinara sauce inside each mushroom cap. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning on top.
- Add your desired toppings, then return the mushrooms to the oven. Bake for another 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and omit the Parmesan for a completely vegan alternative.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or turkey pepperoni for a heartier meal.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without worry.
- Extra Veggies: Experiment with toppings like spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover mushroom pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but the texture may not be as crisp.
FAQs
How do I prevent the mushrooms from becoming soggy?
Make sure to bake the mushroom caps for 8–10 minutes to release excess moisture. Afterward, pat them dry with paper towels before adding the sauce and toppings.
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
While portobello mushrooms work best for this recipe due to their large size, you can experiment with other mushrooms like shiitake or cremini. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t use any bread or dough.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the mushroom caps by baking them and storing them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just add the sauce, cheese, and toppings, then bake.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use dairy-free cheese instead of mozzarella and Parmesan to create a delicious vegan version.
What’s the best way to serve these?
These Portobello Mushroom Pizzas are perfect as a main dish paired with a side salad or steamed veggies.
How can I make these pizzas spicier?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes, spicy sausage, or jalapeños to the toppings for a flavorful kick.
Can I freeze these mushroom pizzas?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pizzas! Assemble the mushrooms, bake them, and let them cool. Then wrap each pizza tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
What kind of cheese should I use?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are the classic choices for pizza, but feel free to swap in other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a unique twist.
How do I make this recipe low-carb?
This recipe is already low-carb thanks to the portobello mushrooms, which serve as a nutritious and flavorful substitute for traditional pizza crust.
Conclusion
Portobello Mushroom Pizzas are a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic pizza. With their savory mushroom base, melty cheese, and customizable toppings, they make for a fun and healthy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re following a special diet or just looking for a lighter alternative to traditional pizza, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Portobello Mushroom Pizzas – 4 Easy Ways to Make Them Extra Cheesy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Portobello Mushroom Pizzas are a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza. Using large portobello mushroom caps as the base, these pizzas are topped with marinara sauce, melted cheese, and a variety of flavorful toppings. Perfect for anyone craving a quick, veggie-packed meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients
4 large portobello mushroom caps, stems and gills removed
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Optional toppings: sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, turkey pepperoni, or fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush the mushroom caps with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. Place the mushrooms, gill-side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the mushrooms for 8–10 minutes to release any excess moisture. Once baked, pat them dry with paper towels.
- Spread marinara sauce inside each mushroom cap. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning on top.
- Add your desired toppings, then return the mushrooms to the oven. Bake for another 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
You can swap turkey pepperoni with other protein toppings like sausage or grilled chicken.
For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese and omit Parmesan.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so enjoy it without worry.
For added nutrition, try experimenting with extra veggie toppings like spinach or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pizza
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
