Name: Pizza with Mozzarella, Caramelized Onions and a Smoked Gouda Cream Sauce
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ball pizza dough (homemade or store-bought); 2 large yellow or sweet onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional); ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Cornmeal or flour, for rolling out dough

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The smoked Gouda cream sauce is decadently smooth and flavorful
Caramelized onions add deep, natural sweetness
Melty mozzarella offers a perfect pizza cheese pull
Ideal for cheese lovers and fans of gourmet comfort food
A great meatless option that’s still hearty and satisfying
Impressive and elegant, yet simple to prepare
Pairs beautifully with wine or a light salad
Easy to customize with herbs or additional toppings
Unique flavor profile you won’t find in traditional pizzas
Perfect for fall and winter comfort meals

Ingredients

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

Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Yellow or sweet onions, thinly sliced
Butter and olive oil (for caramelizing)
Smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
Heavy cream
Fresh garlic, minced
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
Salt and pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cornmeal or flour (for stretching the dough)

Directions

Make the caramelized onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil. Add sliced onions with a pinch of salt and cook slowly for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and caramelized. Set aside.
Prepare the smoked Gouda cream sauce: In a small saucepan, heat a bit of butter or oil. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and add shredded smoked Gouda, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven as well.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface or parchment paper. Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza peel.
Assemble the pizza: Spread a generous layer of smoked Gouda cream sauce over the crust. Add a layer of shredded mozzarella, then top evenly with caramelized onions. Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary and red pepper flakes if desired.
Bake for 10–14 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Cool slightly before slicing and serving. Garnish with more herbs or a light drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Servings and timing

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

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Add crispy prosciutto or bacon for a salty crunch
Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina alongside Gouda
Top with arugula after baking for a peppery freshness
Swap the onions for shallots for a slightly different flavor
Use a whole wheat crust for added texture and nutrition
Add mushrooms for an earthier twist
Make it spicy with a drizzle of hot honey after baking

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freeze cooled slices wrapped in foil or in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crisp on the bottom. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I make the smoked Gouda sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before using.

What kind of onions should I use for caramelizing?

Yellow or sweet onions work best as they develop a rich, sweet flavor when slowly cooked.

Can I use a pre-baked crust?

Yes, just adjust the baking time to heat through—about 8–10 minutes should be enough.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free pizza crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Is this a good vegetarian option?

Absolutely. It’s full of flavor and completely meatless, making it ideal for vegetarians.

What herbs pair best with this pizza?

Thyme, rosemary, and even sage all complement the flavors beautifully.

How do I keep the crust crispy?

Preheat your baking surface (like a stone or steel), don’t overload the pizza with sauce, and bake at a high temperature.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, try roasted mushrooms, spinach, or even thin-sliced pear for a sweet-savory variation.

Does smoked Gouda melt well?

Yes, it melts smoothly when used in a sauce, adding smoky depth and creamy texture.

Conclusion

Pizza with Mozzarella, Caramelized Onions and a Smoked Gouda Cream Sauce is a decadent and unforgettable twist on classic pizza. With its rich cheese sauce, sweet caramelized onions, and perfectly melted mozzarella, it offers gourmet flavors in a simple homemade form. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this pizza is a crowd-pleasing favorite that delivers warmth and comfort in every bite.

Pizza with Mozzarella, Caramelized Onions and a Smoked Gouda Cream Sauce