Name: Caramelized Butternut, Crispy Kale, & Fontina Pizza
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup kale, stems removed and torn into pieces; 1 ½ cups Fontina cheese, shredded; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A delicious blend of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors
Ideal for fall and winter cooking
Meatless but hearty and filling
Fontina adds a creamy, indulgent richness
The crispy kale provides amazing texture and contrast
A beautiful pizza that feels upscale but is easy to make
Great for entertaining or a cozy night in
Customizable with different toppings or cheeses
A fun way to use seasonal vegetables
Makes veggie-forward eating exciting

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Butternut squash, peeled and cubed
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Kale, stems removed and torn into pieces
Fontina cheese, shredded
Garlic, minced
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling after baking)
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for added flavor)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats.
Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
Meanwhile, massage the kale with a bit of olive oil and a pinch of salt to soften. Set aside.
Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza peel if using a stone.
Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the surface.
Top with shredded Fontina cheese, followed by the roasted butternut squash and kale.
Sprinkle red pepper flakes and herbs, if using.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
Slice and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 large pizza, serving 2 to 4 people.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use goat cheese or mozzarella instead of Fontina for a different flavor profile
Add caramelized onions for extra sweetness
Try arugula in place of kale for a peppery bite
Add toasted walnuts or pine nuts for crunch
Swap in acorn squash or delicata squash as an alternative
Make it spicy with sliced fresh chilies or hot honey drizzle
Use a whole wheat or cauliflower crust for a healthier twist

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pizza by wrapping slices tightly and storing in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat slices in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crisp. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes for a crispy bottom.

FAQs

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can roast the squash and prep the kale ahead of time, then assemble and bake the pizza when ready to serve.

What type of pizza dough works best?

Any good-quality store-bought or homemade dough will work. Thinner crusts will bake faster and get crispier.

Is Fontina the only cheese I can use?

No, you can substitute with mozzarella, Gruyère, or even Brie for a different flavor.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat it dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

Do I have to massage the kale?

Yes, massaging kale with a little oil helps tenderize it and improves its texture when baked.

Can I use a pre-baked crust?

Yes, just adjust the baking time to heat through and melt the cheese, about 8–10 minutes.

Is this pizza vegetarian?

Yes, it’s completely vegetarian. Just make sure your cheese is made without animal rennet if that’s a concern.

What herbs pair well with this pizza?

Thyme, rosemary, and sage all complement the butternut squash and cheese beautifully.

How can I make the kale extra crispy?

Spread it out evenly and avoid overloading the pizza. Brushing it lightly with oil also helps crisp it in the oven.

Can I add a sauce base?

If desired, spread a thin layer of ricotta, white sauce, or garlic-infused olive oil as a base before adding toppings.

Conclusion

Caramelized Butternut, Crispy Kale, & Fontina Pizza is a seasonal showstopper that transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. With layers of flavor and texture—from the creamy cheese to the roasted squash and crispy kale—this pizza is a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re looking for a fall-inspired dinner or a new meatless favorite, this pizza is sure to impress and satisfy.