Save Transform your next frozen pizza night into something gourmet with just a few simple additions. By using canned mushrooms, fragrant herbs, and an extra layer of cheese, you can quickly create a meal that feels homemade without much fuss.
I often make this pizza upgrade when I want something more satisfying than a plain store-bought pie. Adding a handful of mushrooms and herbs really does make all the difference and it's always a hit for casual dinners with friends.
Ingredients
- Frozen pizza: 1, any style (Margherita or cheese recommended)
- Canned mushrooms: 1 cup (150 g), drained and sliced
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (or pizza blend): 1 cup (100 g)
- Dried oregano: 1/4 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1/4 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/4 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Olive oil (optional): 1 tablespoon, for drizzling
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional): chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set your oven to the temperature indicated on the frozen pizza package (typically 220°C/425°F).
- Prepare pizza:
- Remove pizza from packaging and place it on a baking tray or pizza stone.
- Add mushrooms:
- Evenly distribute drained mushrooms over the pizza base.
- Add cheese:
- Sprinkle extra shredded cheese to cover mushrooms and existing toppings.
- Season:
- Sprinkle dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a few grinds of black pepper over the pizza.
- Olive oil (optional):
- Drizzle olive oil for enhanced flavor.
- Bake:
- Bake in preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish:
- Remove from oven, cool for 2 minutes, then top with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve:
- Slice and enjoy while hot.
Save This pizza is always a family favorite on movie nights. Everyone gets involved with choosing the toppings, and there are never any leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this upgraded pizza with a crisp green salad and a glass of Italian red wine for a simple and delicious meal.
Variations
Try adding sliced olives, bell peppers, or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor. Any cheese variety like cheddar, gouda, or vegan cheese will also work well.
Nutrition
This pizza has about 380 calories per serving, with 17 g fat, 40 g carbohydrates, and 16 g protein based on a standard cheese pizza with added toppings.
Save A little creativity can make a frozen pizza night feel truly special. Enjoy each slice hot and fresh from the oven.
Recipe Guide
- → What herbs work best on frozen pizza?
Dried oregano, basil, and thyme create a balanced herbal flavor that complements mushrooms and cheese perfectly.
- → Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried?
Fresh parsley or basil make excellent garnishes after baking, adding fresh aroma and color without overpowering.
- → Is it better to use canned or fresh mushrooms?
Canned mushrooms are convenient, pre-cooked, and slice easily for even coverage, but fresh can work if pre-sautéed.
- → How do I prevent the pizza from becoming soggy with toppings?
Drain canned mushrooms well and avoid excessive olive oil to maintain a crisp crust during baking.
- → Can I use different cheeses than mozzarella?
Yes, cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or vegan alternatives melt well and add unique flavors to the pizza.