If you’re a pizza lover looking for a healthier, low-carb alternative to the traditional pizza crust, Portobello Mushroom Pizzas are the perfect solution. These mushroom caps serve as a delicious and nutritious base for all your favorite pizza toppings. With a rich, savory flavor and meaty texture, Portobello mushrooms are an excellent vehicle for holding melted cheese, savory sauces, and creative toppings. Whether you’re aiming for a light meal, a fun appetizer, or a creative dinner option, these mini pizzas are easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 large Portobello mushroom caps
- ½ small onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ⅓ cup (80ml) passata (tomato puree)
- ⅓ cup (80ml) chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Pinch of oregano
- Pinch of Italian parsley
- 50g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Cooking oil spray
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- 1 smoked chicken sausage, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons sliced black olives
- Chopped red onion
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking oil spray to prevent the mushrooms from sticking. - Prepare the Portobello mushroom caps:
Wipe the mushroom caps clean with a damp paper towel and gently remove the stems and gills from the underside using a spoon. This will create a nice hollow space for your sauce and toppings. Lightly spray both sides of the mushrooms with cooking oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet, cap side down, and set aside. - Make the pizza sauce:
In a small skillet, heat a splash of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Pour in the passata, stock, and tomato paste, stirring well to combine. Add a pinch of oregano and Italian parsley, then simmer the sauce for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Assemble the mushroom pizzas:
Spoon the pizza sauce generously over the inside of each mushroom cap, spreading it evenly. - Add your toppings:
Now it’s time to get creative! Top each mushroom pizza with your preferred ingredients. For this recipe, add slices of smoked chicken sausage, black olives, and chopped red onion. You can mix and match toppings to suit your taste—whether it’s more veggies, different meats, or a sprinkle of herbs. - Bake the pizzas:
Place the baking sheet with the assembled mushroom pizzas in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. - Serve and enjoy:
Once the mushroom pizzas are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. These bite-sized pizzas are perfect on their own or paired with a fresh salad for a light and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Portobello Mushroom Pizzas offer a fun and healthy alternative to traditional pizza, without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors we love. The rich, earthy taste of the mushroom pairs perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and your choice of toppings. This low-carb, gluten-free option is perfect for those looking to reduce their carb intake or simply enjoy a lighter meal. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, Portobello Mushroom Pizzas are ideal for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or even a creative party snack.