Save Transform a basic frozen pizza into a flavorful, gourmet-style meal with the addition of canned mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and a generous layer of extra cheese.
The first time I tried doctoring up a frozen pizza with mushrooms and fresh herbs, my family was surprised at how delicious and different it tasted. It instantly became our go-to trick for busy nights.
Ingredients
- Frozen pizza: Choose any style, such as Margherita or cheese
- Canned mushrooms: 1 cup (150 g), drained and sliced
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g), or pizza cheese blend
- Dried oregano: 1/4 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1/4 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/4 teaspoon
- Black pepper: Freshly ground, to taste
- Olive oil (optional): 1 tablespoon, for drizzling
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional): Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set your oven according to frozen pizza package instructions (typically 220°C/425°F)
- Prepare Pizza Base:
- Remove the pizza from packaging and place on baking tray or pizza stone
- Add Mushrooms:
- Evenly distribute drained mushrooms over the pizza
- Add Extra Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over mushrooms and existing toppings
- Season:
- Sprinkle dried oregano, basil, thyme, and black pepper over pizza
- Optional Drizzle:
- Drizzle with olive oil for enhanced flavor
- Bake:
- Bake as directed on package, usually 10-15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove from oven, let cool 2 minutes, garnish with parsley or basil if desired. Slice and serve hot
Save My kids love helping arrange the toppings before the pizza goes in the oven. It turns dinner into a quick family activity.
Flavor Variations
Add olives, bell peppers, or chili flakes for even more taste and color.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of Italian red wine for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (based on standard cheese pizza and toppings) is about 380 calories, 17 g fat, 40 g carbohydrates, and 16 g protein.
Save This simple upgrade transforms your frozen pizza into a memorable homemade treat. Enjoy right from the oven for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What mushrooms work best for this dish?
Canned sliced mushrooms are ideal as they are already cooked and ready to use. Drain them well to avoid excess moisture on the pizza.
- → Can I substitute dried herbs with fresh ones?
Fresh herbs can be used as a garnish after baking for a bright flavor, but dried herbs are best for seasoning before cooking to ensure their aroma infuses the pizza.
- → What type of cheese enhances the flavor most?
Mozzarella or a pizza cheese blend melts well and adds creaminess. For more richness, a mix of cheddar or gouda can be included as well.
- → Is it necessary to preheat the oven before baking?
Yes, preheating the oven ensures even cooking and helps the cheese melt and brown perfectly in the suggested time frame.
- → How can the pizza be made vegetarian friendly?
Use vegetarian-friendly cheese varieties and verify the frozen pizza base contains no animal-derived ingredients.