Butternut Squash and Crispy Sage Pizza

Butternut Squash and Crispy Sage Pizza

This fall-inspired pizza combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthy flavor of crispy sage. Creamy ricotta cheese balances the savory notes, making for a truly delicious and satisfying vegetarian pizza.

Here’s a recipe for making Butternut Squash and Crispy Sage Pizza at home:

| Ingredients | |
|—|—|
| Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) | 1 (12-14 inch) round |
| Butternut squash | 1 medium (about 2 cups cubed) |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh sage leaves | 12-15 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Ricotta cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | Pinch |

Cooking Guide:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown. Let cool slightly.
2. While the squash roasts, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add sage leaves and cook for 30-60 seconds, swirling occasionally, until crisp. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
3. Spread the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface or baking sheet. Brush the dough with a thin layer of olive oil. Dollop ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge.
4. Top the pizza with roasted butternut squash, leaving some space between the pieces. Scatter shredded mozzarella cheese over the pizza.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with crispy sage leaves and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick (optional). Slice and serve immediately.

Tips:

• For a smoother texture: Puree the roasted butternut squash with a fork or food processor before adding it to the pizza.
• Don’t overcrowd the pizza: This will prevent the crust from cooking evenly.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh sage leaves make a big difference in the flavor of this pizza.
• Leftovers: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.