Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza

This Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza is a delightful dish that brings together creamy asiago alfredo sauce, sautéed shiitake mushrooms, and tender artichoke hearts. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this pizza stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. You will love how easy it is to prepare while still impressing your guests with gourmet tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of asiago cheese and garlic creates a rich, mouthwatering experience.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this pizza can be made quickly, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
• Versatile Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to customize the pizza to your liking.
• Family-Friendly: A great way to get kids involved in cooking by letting them choose their own toppings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game night or a casual dinner, this pizza fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pizza stone or baking pan
• Pizza peel (if using a stone)
• Medium skillet
• Small saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Pizza stone: Provides even heat distribution for a perfectly crispy crust.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth sauces by preventing lumps when mixing ingredients.
• Pizza peel: Helps in easily transferring pizza from prep surface to oven without mess.

Ingredients

This mushroom artichoke pizza features a creamy asiago alfredo sauce, buttery sautéed shiitake mushrooms, and lots of tender artichoke hearts.

For the Crust

• Pizza dough for 1 (12-inch) crust

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 8 oz shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 medium clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup 2% or skim milk
• 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 3/4 cup grated asiago cheese, divided
• 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup jarred quartered artichoke hearts, patted dry
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme

How to Make Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position. If you have a pizza stone, place it on the rack to preheat as well.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Turn the pizza dough onto a floured surface. Shape and stretch it into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a well-floured pizza peel if using a stone or grease a 12-inch pizza pan before placing the dough inside.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they are just tender. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a separate small saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and flour; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Slowly drizzle in milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly until smooth. Bring this mixture to a low simmer and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup grated asiago cheese along with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza

Spread the prepared sauce over the pizza crust, leaving about an inch around the edges. Fold these edges over slightly to create a half-inch border. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and patted dry artichokes.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

If using a stone, carefully slide the assembled pizza onto it using your peel. If using a pan, simply place it in your oven. Bake for about 10 minutes at 450°F. After that time, remove it from the oven; add sautéed shiitake mushrooms, thyme, and remaining asiago cheese on top. Return it to bake for another 5-10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Take out your beautifully baked pizza from the oven. Allow it to stand for about 5 minutes before cutting into wedges and serving warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza

Serving Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza can be a delightful experience for you and your guests. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious pizza.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a simple vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Caesar Salad: This classic salad, made without anchovies, adds a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the pizza.

Add Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Herb Oil: Drizzle some garlic-infused olive oil on the crust for an extra boost of flavor.
• Spicy Marinara: Serve a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance each bite of pizza.

Serve with Beverages

• Sparkling Water: The fizz in sparkling water cleanses the palate between cheesy bites.
• Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing herbal tea offers a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the pizza.

How to Perfect Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza

Creating the perfect Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza involves paying attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your pizza-making game.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shiitake mushrooms and artichokes enhance flavor and texture, making your pizza more enjoyable.
• Preheat your oven properly: Ensure your oven is at 450F before baking. Proper heat creates a crispy crust.
• Don’t overload with toppings: Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy. Keep it balanced for optimal texture.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh thyme or basil can add depth to your pizza. Sprinkle them on top just before serving for added aroma.
• Let it cool slightly before slicing: Allowing the pizza to rest for about 5 minutes helps maintain its structure when cutting.

Best Side Dishes for Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza

Complementing your Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza with sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes a perfect starter or side, adding an extra layer of flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrition to your meal. Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite alongside the pizza.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs provides a crunchy contrast to the soft pizza.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds crunch and balances the richness of the pizza.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad serves as a refreshing end note after enjoying rich flavors from the pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza is a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results.

• Using cold dough: Starting with cold pizza dough can lead to a tough crust. Always let your dough come to room temperature before shaping it.
• Overloading toppings: Adding too many toppings can make the pizza soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Skipping the cheese blend: Using only one type of cheese may affect flavor and texture. A blend of asiago and mozzarella adds depth and creaminess.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the pizza right away can cause the cheese and toppings to slide off. Allowing it to rest for a few minutes helps set everything together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pizza in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 375F and bake slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes per slice, but note this may make the crust softer.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a lid for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps the crust crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza that might help you out.

What is Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza?

Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza is a delicious dish featuring a creamy asiago sauce, sautéed shiitake mushrooms, and artichokes, all on a crispy crust.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! You can substitute asiago with other cheeses like fontina or gouda for varied flavors while keeping mozzarella as your base cheese.

How do I make my pizza crust crispy?

For a crispier pizza crust, bake it on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the pizza inside.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your pizza by adding other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or olives to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Asiago Shiitake Mushroom Artichoke Pizza is not only rich in flavor but also versatile. You can easily customize it with additional veggies or different cheeses based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!