Pin It 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. This easy method elevates your pizza night in just minutes for a satisfying upgrade.
I started upgrading frozen pizzas during busy weeknights when I wanted something more exciting but didn't have time to make dough from scratch. The combination of mushrooms and extra cheese makes a huge difference in flavor.
Ingredients
- Frozen pizza: 1, any style (e.g., Margherita or cheese)
- Canned mushrooms: 1 cup (150 g), drained and sliced
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g), shredded (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: 1 tablespoon (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh parsley or basil: chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven according to the frozen pizza package instructions (typically 220°C/425°F).
- Prepare Base:
- Remove the frozen pizza from its packaging and place it on a baking tray or pizza stone.
- Add Mushrooms:
- Evenly distribute the drained mushrooms over the pizza.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the extra shredded cheese over the entire pizza, covering mushrooms and existing toppings.
- Season:
- Season with dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a few twists of black pepper.
- Optional Olive Oil:
- Drizzle with olive oil for a richer flavor, if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for the time indicated on the package, usually 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish:
- Remove from the oven, let cool for 2 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve hot.
Pin It This pizza upgrade has quickly become a favorite for movie nights with family. Everyone gathers around the table to choose their favorite garnishes before baking.
Required Tools
Oven, baking tray or pizza stone, knife, and cutting board (optional for garnishes).
Nutritional Information
Each serving (based on a standard cheese pizza with added toppings) contains approximately 380 calories, 17 g fat, 40 g carbohydrates, and 16 g protein.
Notes
Add sliced olives, bell pepper, or chili flakes for extra flavor. Use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, gouda, or vegan cheese. Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of Italian red wine for a complete meal.
Pin It Try this upgrade for your next pizza night and you'll never look at frozen pizza the same way again. Simple steps, big flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Yes, fresh mushrooms can be sliced and lightly sautéed before adding to improve texture and flavor.
- → What herbs work best for this topping?
Dried oregano, basil, and thyme complement the mushrooms and cheese well, adding a classic Italian flavor.
- → Is extra cheese necessary?
Adding extra shredded mozzarella or a cheese blend enhances creaminess and melts beautifully over the toppings.
- → How do I avoid sogginess on the pizza base?
Ensure mushrooms are well drained and apply toppings evenly to maintain a crisp crust.
- → Can I add other toppings to customize?
Absolutely—ingredients like olives, bell peppers, or chili flakes can add additional flavor and texture diversity.