Portobello pizzas are a fun and simple way to enjoy pizza flavors without using regular bread or dough. In this dish, big and round portobello mushrooms are used as the pizza base instead of bread. The mushrooms are soft, juicy, and perfect for holding your favorite pizza toppings.
These pizzas are not only tasty but also healthy because they are low in carbs and full of nutrients. You can make these small pizzas for lunch, dinner, or even as a party snack. They cook fast, and kids also enjoy eating them. This is a great choice if you want to eat light but still enjoy the taste of a cheesy pizza.
Ingredients You Will Need
-
4 large portobello mushroom caps
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup pizza sauce (any brand or homemade)
-
½ cup chopped onions
-
½ cup chopped capsicum (bell peppers)
-
8–10 slices of pepperoni or cooked sausage (optional)
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-
½ teaspoon garlic powder
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
-
Fresh basil or parsley (for topping – optional)
How to Make Portobello Pizzas – Step by Step
Step 1: Get the Mushrooms Ready
First, clean the portobello mushroom caps with a damp paper towel. Do not wash them under water, as they soak water quickly. Remove the stems and gently scrape out the dark brown gills using a spoon. This makes more room for the fillings and helps the mushroom bake better.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and prepare
Turn on your oven and preheat it to 190°C (375°F). Take a baking tray and place a baking sheet on it. Put the mushroom caps upside down on the tray. Brush a little olive oil on the top and bottom of each cap. Sprinkle a little salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on them.
Step 3: Add the Pizza Sauce and Toppings
Now, spoon a small amount of pizza sauce into each mushroom cap. Spread it well. After that, add chopped onions and capsicum. If you like meat, you can also add slices of cooked sausage or pepperoni. Finally, cover everything with shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Pizzas
Put the tray in the oven and bake the mushrooms for about 12 to 15 minutes. You will see the cheese melt and become slightly golden. The mushrooms will also become soft, but should still hold their shape. Keep an eye on them while baking so they don’t burn.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Take the tray out of the oven. Let the portobello pizzas cool for 1–2 minutes. You can now add fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a nice flavor. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or just eat them plain. They taste great both ways.
Also Read: Pizza Meatloaf Cups Recipe – Easy & Tasty Meat Muffins at Home
Tips and Variations
If you want to try different styles, you can use many other toppings. You can add olives, jalapeños, sweet corn, mushrooms, or paneer for a vegetarian option. For a spicy twist, add red chili flakes or a few drops of hot sauce. If you are watching your diet, you can use low-fat cheese or skip the meat. You can even make a mini pizza bar at home, where everyone adds their own toppings. These mushroom pizzas are easy to customize and make to your liking.
Why Everyone Loves Portobello Pizzas
People like this dish because it tastes like pizza but doesn’t feel heavy. Portobello mushrooms are rich in fiber and other good things your body needs. They are perfect for people who want to avoid too much bread or are trying a low-carb diet. Even kids who don’t usually eat vegetables enjoy them because of the cheesy and saucy pizza flavor. These mini pizzas are filling, fun to make, and perfect for quick meals or small gatherings. You can make 4–6 in one go and store the extras in the fridge for later. They still taste great when warmed in a pan or microwave.
Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftover portobello pizzas, you can store them in an airtight box in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave for about 1 minute or heat them in a pan for a better texture. Avoid freezing them, as mushrooms can become too watery after freezing. It’s best to eat them fresh or within a day.