Introduction
When fall arrives with its crisp air and colorful leaves, our cravings shift toward comforting, warm flavors. If you’re looking for the perfect autumn dinner that feels both special and comforting, this butternut squash sage pizza will absolutely delight your taste buds. Unlike traditional tomato-based pizzas, this seasonal variation celebrates the earthy, sweet notes that define fall cooking.
Furthermore, this pizza offers a beautiful balance of flavors: the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, the aromatic touch of fresh sage, and the creamy richness of cheese. Additionally, the combination creates a sophisticated yet approachable meal that works beautifully for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Sage Pizza
First of all, this butternut squash sage pizza comes together more easily than you might think. Despite its impressive appearance and complex flavors, even novice cooks can create this showstopper. Moreover, it’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, main course, or the star of your next gathering.
The ingredients harmonize to create the perfect fall bite. The sweetness of the squash balances beautifully against the earthy sage, while the cheese adds a creamy counterpoint. As a result, you’ll experience a pizza that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this butternut squash sage pizza, gather these ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pine nuts (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Butternut Squash
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Next, roast for 25-30 minutes until the squash becomes tender and starts to caramelize. Consequently, the squash will develop a wonderfully sweet flavor that forms the foundation of your butternut squash sage pizza.
2. Caramelize the Onions
Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt and cook slowly for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. As a result, the onions will transform into a sweet, golden-brown topping that adds amazing depth to your pizza.
3. Crisp the Sage
About two minutes before the onions finish cooking, add the sage leaves to the skillet. Let them crisp slightly in the butter mixture, which will release their aromatic oils. Subsequently, remove the onion-sage mixture from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Pizza Dough
On a floured surface, roll or stretch your pizza dough into a 12-14 inch circle (or whatever shape works for your baking sheet or pizza stone). Then, transfer to a cornmeal-dusted pizza peel or parchment-lined baking sheet. Next, brush the surface with the remaining olive oil.
5. Assemble Your Butternut Squash Sage Pizza
Spread the ricotta cheese over the dough, leaving a half-inch border for the crust. Then, evenly distribute the roasted butternut squash and caramelized onion-sage mixture. Finally, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake your butternut squash sage pizza at 425°F for 12-15 minutes until the crust turns golden and the cheese melts completely. If you’re using pine nuts, add them in the last 3 minutes of baking to toast them lightly without burning.
7. Finish with Flair
Remove your pizza from the oven and immediately top with additional fresh sage leaves. Subsequently, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Finally, serve with optional red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a hint of heat.
Serving Suggestions
This butternut squash sage pizza pairs beautifully with several accompaniments:
- A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil
- A glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Pinot Noir
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans for a complete fall meal
Moreover, you can serve this as an appetizer by cutting it into smaller slices, making it perfect for autumn gatherings or game day celebrations.
Make-Ahead Tips
For busy weeknights, prepare components ahead of time:
- Roast the butternut squash up to 3 days in advance
- Caramelize the onions the day before
- Make and freeze pizza dough weeks ahead
As a result, you can assemble and bake your butternut squash sage pizza in minutes when you’re ready to eat.
Variations to Try
While this butternut squash sage pizza is perfect as written, you might enjoy these variations:
- Meat Lover’s Version: Add crispy pancetta or prosciutto after baking for a salty contrast
- Vegan Option: Replace the dairy cheeses with your favorite plant-based alternatives
- Extra Autumn Spice: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes! Thaw it first and pat dry to remove excess moisture. Then, roast as directed, though it might take a little less time than fresh squash.
What if I can’t find fresh sage?
While fresh sage provides the best flavor for butternut squash sage pizza, you can substitute dried sage (use 1 teaspoon instead of 2 tablespoons fresh). However, add it to the oil rather than crisping separately.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pizza crust. The toppings themselves contain no gluten.
How do I know when my pizza is done?
Your butternut squash sage pizza is ready when the crust turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles and develops light brown spots. Additionally, you should be able to lift the edge and see that the bottom is crisp.
Why This Butternut Squash Sage Pizza Works for Fall
This pizza captures fall’s essence in every bite. The butternut squash delivers a natural sweetness that mirrors the season’s harvest bounty. Meanwhile, the sage contributes an earthy aroma that evokes autumn’s woodland notes.
Furthermore, this butternut squash sage pizza uses ingredients at their peak seasonal freshness and availability. As a result, you’ll create a meal that not only tastes better but also connects you to the natural rhythm of the seasons.
Health Benefits
Beyond its incredible flavor, this butternut squash sage pizza offers nutritional benefits:
- Butternut squash provides vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber
- Fresh sage contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties
- When you make pizza at home, you control the ingredients, resulting in a healthier meal than delivery options
Connect With the Season
Making this butternut squash sage pizza offers a wonderful way to celebrate fall’s bounty. Whether you source ingredients from your local farmers’ market or grocery store, this recipe helps you connect with seasonal cooking traditions.
Conclusion
This butternut squash sage pizza delivers the perfect combination of convenience and seasonal sophistication. With its blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic elements, it transforms an ordinary pizza night into a celebration of autumn flavors.
By following this straightforward recipe, you’ll create a memorable meal that feels special without requiring professional culinary skills. Therefore, as the evenings grow cooler and the leaves change color, treat yourself and your loved ones to this cozy, flavorful pizza that captures fall in every bite.
What’s your favorite seasonal pizza topping? Let us know in the comments below!
Description
When the crisp air and golden leaves of fall arrive, cozy up with this Butternut Squash Sage Pizza — a comforting twist on the classic. This autumn-inspired dish highlights the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, perfectly complemented by fragrant sage and creamy cheese. Every bite captures the essence of the season — warm, earthy, and irresistibly satisfying. Ideal for family dinners or relaxed gatherings, it’s a sophisticated yet simple way to celebrate fall’s comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
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Toss squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper
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Roast squash for 25-30 minutes until tender
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Caramelize onions in 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter for 20-25 minutes
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Add sage leaves to onions during the last 2 minutes
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Roll out pizza dough and brush with remaining olive oil
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Spread ricotta over dough, then top with squash and onion-sage mixture
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Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan
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Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden
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Add pine nuts during the last 3 minutes if using
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Garnish with fresh sage leaves before serving
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 520kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Total Carbohydrate 65g22%
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
