Caramelized Onion Pizza with Mozzarella

Name: Caramelized Onion Pizza with Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large pizza dough; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Plates

I absolutely love making this Caramelized Onion Pizza with Mozzarella for a cozy night in. The sweet, rich flavor of the caramelized onions combined with the gooey mozzarella cheese creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist. I often prepare this dish when I want to impress guests or simply treat myself to something special. Plus, the aroma wafting through the kitchen while it's baking is simply irresistible. It's an uncomplicated recipe that's always a hit, leaving my friends and family asking for seconds!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:54:41.831Z

As I explored the world of pizza making, I discovered that caramelizing onions intensifies their natural sweetness which adds a fantastic depth of flavor to any dish. This method, paired with richly melted mozzarella, creates a pizza that’s truly unforgettable. While preparing the onions, I found that a splash of balsamic vinegar enhances their sweetness without overwhelming the dish.

It took me a few tries to find the perfect balance of toppings, but I learned that less is sometimes more. A drizzle of olive oil or a hint of thyme before baking elevates the flavor to new heights. Each bite of this pizza is both comforting and gourmet, making it a standout choice at my family gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The sweet aroma of caramelized onions transforms your kitchen.
Each slice is topped with gooey, melted mozzarella that pulls perfectly.
An easy yet impressive dish for gatherings and cozy nights.

      

The Art of Caramelizing Onions

Caramelized onions are the heart and soul of this pizza. To achieve that deep, rich flavor, patience is key. You want to cook the onions over medium heat without rushing them. Sautéing them too quickly on high heat can lead to burnt edges while leaving the inside raw. Instead, aim for a gentle sizzle, stirring occasionally, until they're golden brown and have a lovely, sweet aroma—this typically takes about 20 minutes. If they start to stick, feel free to add a splash of water to deglaze the pan and enhance the caramelization.

The addition of balsamic vinegar towards the end of cooking not only amplifies that sweet profile but also brings a tangy depth that perfectly complements the mozzarella cheese. Be sure to cook the vinegar with the onions for at least 2 minutes to evaporate some of its acidity, allowing for a harmonious balance of flavors in each bite of the pizza. Trust me; this step elevates the taste of your pizza dramatically.

Perfecting the Dough

Rolling out the pizza dough can make a big difference in the final texture of your pizza. For a chewy crust, aim for about ¼ inch thickness. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can roll it thinner. Make sure to flour your work surface generously to prevent sticking, and use a rolling pin for even pressure as you extend the dough. If you encounter resistance while rolling, let the dough rest for a few minutes, which allows the gluten to relax for easier shaping.

Consider using a pizza stone if available, as it can absorb moisture and helps create a crispy bottom. Preheat the stone in the oven at the same time as you preheat your oven; this usually takes about 30 minutes. If you’re using a baking sheet, parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes for an easy cleanup after baking.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Once the pizza is done baking, take a moment to let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the cheese to set slightly, making for cleaner cuts and more appealing slices. If you sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top after removing the pizza from the oven, the aromatic herbs will add brightness to each bite, making the overall dish feel even more special.

If you have leftovers, which is rare but possible, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This will help restore some of the crust's crunchiness. Alternatively, a quick sauté in a skillet can also revive the texture while enhancing the flavor further.

Ingredients

Gather these key ingredients before starting your pizza journey.

Ingredients

1 large pizza dough
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

These ingredients make for a delicious and satisfying pizza.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious pizza masterpiece.

Prepare the Onions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes until they are deep golden brown and caramelized. Add balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, then cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. Place it on a pizza stone or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Assemble the Pizza

Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top.

Bake the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake the pizza for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven, sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves if desired, slice, and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious homemade caramelized onion pizza!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños along with the caramelized onions.

Ingredient Alternatives

Feel free to experiment with the type of cheese used in this pizza. While mozzarella is the classic choice, you can substitute it with provolone or fontina for an interesting twist. These cheeses melt beautifully and offer unique flavors. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan mozzarella, which melts well but may require a slightly longer baking time to achieve the desired gooey consistency.

If you're looking for a more robust flavor, adding a layer of goat cheese or blue cheese can elevate the taste profile. Just be cautious with the amounts, as these cheeses have stronger flavors that can overpower the sweet notes of caramelized onions.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Doubling the ingredients is straightforward, but it’s essential to use a larger baking sheet or multiple pizza stones to ensure even cooking. When making multiple pizzas, preheat your oven for a longer time if you fill it with several dishes; this ensures each pizza bakes evenly and achieves that desired crispy crust.

If short on time, you can prepare the caramelized onions a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and assemble the pizza just before baking. Using pre-prepared toppings not only saves time during busy evenings but also means more time to enjoy with your friends or family around the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough saves time and works perfectly for this recipe.

→ How do I store leftover pizza?

Wrap it in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the pizza?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled pizza before baking or bake and then freeze slices.

→ What other toppings go well with caramelized onions?

Consider adding goat cheese, spinach, or bacon for additional flavor combinations.