Name: Mushroom Pizza with Ricotta and Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough (16 ounces); 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1 tablespoon butter (or another tablespoon of olive oil); 1 clove garlic (minced); 2 cups white button mushrooms (sliced, 8 ounces); 2 cups shiitake mushrooms (halved, 4 ounces); 1 portobello mushroom (gills removed, sliced into strips); 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella (8 ounces); 3/4 cup ricotta cheese (7 ounces); 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (for topping); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for topping)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 152 reviews

If you adore the comfort of pizza but crave a gourmet twist, this Mushroom Pizza with Ricotta and Herbs Recipe is about to become your go-to. Imagine a golden, crisp crust layered with a luscious blend of sautéed mushrooms, melty mozzarella, and dollops of creamy ricotta cheese, all seasoned with fragrant herbs that elevate every bite. It is a perfect marriage of rustic earthiness and fresh, creamy texture that feels just as special for a cozy weeknight dinner as it does for impressing friends at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the top, there is a white bowl with light beige dough inside, smooth in texture. To the right, a white bowl holds whole white mushrooms, round and fresh. Below the mushrooms, a light brown wooden bowl has a heap of shredded pale yellow cheese, soft and fluffy. Next to it, a small square wooden dish contains a scoop of creamy white cheese, thick and smooth. On the left side, a white and blue patterned bowl is filled with light brown mushrooms that have darker spots. There are also three small white bowls with different seasonings: one with red chili flakes, one with dried herbs, and one with salt and pepper. A bulb of garlic with some cloves peeled is placed near the center. At the bottom, a large dark mushroom with a detailed, dark brown gill pattern is visible. A bottle of oil stands in the top right corner. The setup is simple and clean, showing fresh ingredients with different colors and textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are refreshingly simple, yet each plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal you’ll love about this pizza. From the silky ricotta to the melty mozzarella, and the medley of mushrooms bringing depth, every component shines here.

1 pound pizza dough (16 ounces): Your crisp and chewy base, essential for that perfect crust texture.
3 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Adds richness and helps create a golden crust and flavorful sautéed mushrooms.
1 tablespoon butter (or another tablespoon of olive oil): Introduces a subtle creaminess to the mushroom sauté.
1 clove garlic (minced): Offers a bright punch of flavor to the mushrooms without overpowering their earthiness.
2 cups white button mushrooms (sliced, 8 ounces): Mild-flavored, tender slices that form a solid mushroom base.
2 cups shiitake mushrooms (halved, 4 ounces): Brings a deeper, woodsy taste and meaty texture.
1 portobello mushroom (gills removed, sliced into strips): Adds robust flavor and satisfying chew.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Provides a subtle herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with mushrooms.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a warm, slightly peppery Mediterranean touch.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat.
2 cups shredded mozzarella (8 ounces): Melts into a bubbly, stretchy blanket over the crust.
3/4 cup ricotta cheese (7 ounces): Creamy and mild, it balances the mushrooms with its luscious texture.

How to Make Mushroom Pizza with Ricotta and Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Once shimmering, add the variety of mushrooms along with thyme, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Sauté gently, stirring every now and then, for about 10 minutes until the mushrooms soften and brown beautifully on a couple of sides. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute to bring a fresh, aromatic finish. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Step 2: Get the Dough Ready

If you’re working with refrigerated pizza dough, it’s key to let it relax at room temperature while you finish prepping. This makes stretching much easier and prevents shrinkage in the oven. When ready, preheat your oven to a toasty 450°F (205°C). Lightly oil your baking sheet or prepare your pizza stone, and then stretch the dough into a roughly 14-inch circle—don’t worry about being perfect; the rustic charm is real.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

Sprinkle your shredded mozzarella evenly across the dough surface, laying down a melty, cheesy foundation. Spoon those heavenly sautéed mushrooms over the mozzarella, ensuring every bite will have that savory, umami punch. Dot generous spoonfuls of creamy ricotta cheese on top, creating pockets of dreamy softness. Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to elevate the flavor balance.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pizza into the hot oven and bake for about 15 minutes, watching closely around the 10-minute mark. You want bubbly, slightly golden cheese and a crust that’s crisp on the edges and bottom. Remove from the oven once done and consider a final drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes and fresh herbs for flair and an extra flavor boost.

How to Serve Mushroom Pizza with Ricotta and Herbs Recipe

A round flat pizza dough base sits on a shiny baking sheet, topped with a first layer of shredded white cheese spread near the edges and center. On top of the cheese is a thick layer of browned, cooked mushroom slices that are rich dark brown with some lighter edges. Dollops of soft white ricotta cheese are scattered evenly over the mushrooms, with some light black pepper sprinkled on top. In the top right corner, a woman's hand holds a wooden pepper grinder above the pizza, adding fresh pepper. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A thoughtful garnish can transform this pizza into an even more inviting dish. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or a little sprinkle of thyme add a lively pop of green and fragrance that complements the earthy mushrooms. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving gives a silky finish, and some crushed red pepper flakes excite the palate with subtle heat.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, pair this mushroom pizza with crisp, refreshing sides. A vibrant green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness, or roasted seasonal vegetables add wholesome heartiness. If you want something lighter, pickled veggies or a simple arugula salad tossed with Parmesan and a squeeze of fresh lemon creates a lively accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by slicing the pizza into neat wedges and arranging them on a rustic wooden board or striking serving plate. Consider serving with a small bowl of chili oil or herbed olive oil for dipping crusts—this adds a fun interactive element. For gatherings, present alongside a variety of fresh herb sprigs for guests to garnish according to their taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Mushroom Pizza with Ricotta and Herbs Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the crust from getting soggy, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze any extra pizza slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly again and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, to keep that perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms in this recipe?

Absolutely! The beauty of the Mushroom Pizza with Ricotta and Herbs Recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap in cremini, oyster, or even wild mushrooms depending on what’s fresh or available. Just keep the balance of textures and flavors in mind for the best results.

Is it necessary to remove the gills from the portobello mushrooms?

Removing the gills is recommended because they can sometimes release too much moisture and darken the pizza’s appearance. Plus, getting rid of them prevents a slightly bitter taste, ensuring the pizza stays flavorful and visually appealing.

Can I make this recipe using store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, using store-bought dough works perfectly and saves time. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before stretching it out, which makes it easier to handle and helps you achieve that ideal crispy crust.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese on hand?

You can substitute ricotta with soft goat cheese or a dollop of cream cheese for a similar creamy texture and mild flavor. However, ricotta truly brings a lightness and freshness to this dish that’s worth trying when you can.

Can I add other toppings to this pizza?

Of course! While this Mushroom Pizza with Ricotta and Herbs Recipe shines on its own, adding caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or even some arugula after baking can elevate the flavors. Just keep toppings balanced so the mushrooms and ricotta remain the stars.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably comforting and elegant about the Mushroom Pizza with Ricotta and Herbs Recipe that makes it a cherished favorite in my kitchen. It strikes the perfect chord between rustic simplicity and gourmet flair. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings, whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Mushroom Pizza with Ricotta and Herbs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need