Name: Comforting Fall Harvest Pizza with Prosciutto
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups organic all-purpose flour; 1 cup warm water; 1 Tbsp organic raw honey; 1 packet rapid-rise yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons); 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Pinch of sea salt; 1 cup pizza sauce; 2 cups roasted butternut squash; 6 garlic cloves, roasted and roughly chopped; 8 oz. fresh mozzarella, sliced or cubed; 2 oz. fresh sliced prosciutto; 1 cup chopped kale, organic; 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional); Raw honey, for drizzle (optional)

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

Cozy evenings filled with the scent of roasted butternut squash and garlic wafting through the kitchen are what fall is all about. Imagine yourself nestled in your favorite sweater, savoring every bite of a slice of warm, cheesy pizza topped with delightful, caramelized veggies and savory prosciutto. The golden crust is soft and chewy yet perfectly crisp on the edges, making it nearly impossible to resist going back for seconds. That’s exactly what you can expect from this Comforting Fall Harvest Pizza with Prosciutto.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Comforting Fall Harvest Pizza with Prosciutto
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Comforting Fall Harvest Pizza with Prosciutto

Comforting Fall Harvest Pizza with Prosciutto

Fall has always held a special place in my heart, full of memories— from picking pumpkins at the local farm to gathering around the dinner table with loved ones, sharing laughter and seasonal dishes. This pizza recipe brings back those warm feelings, blending the fresh flavors of fall into a savory feast. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season. So, let’s get cooking and create this heartwarming dish that’s sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 50 minutes of prep time, this pizza comes together effortlessly, letting you enjoy more time with family.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of roasted butternut squash, sweet garlic, and salty prosciutto offers a mouthwatering experience with each bite.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful toppings make this pizza not only tasty but also a feast for the eyes—perfect for impressing guests.
Flexible Serving: This pizza shines at dinner parties, movie nights, or even as a leftover lunch the next day.
Diet-Friendly Options: With a few tweaks, this recipe can cater to gluten-free and other dietary needs, making it accessible for everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 3/4 cups organic all-purpose flour: This provides the foundation for your dough, giving it the right balance of structure and chewiness. For a gluten-free option, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
1 cup warm water: Ensures proper yeast activation; remember it should feel pleasantly warm, like a cozy hug on a chilly day, not hot!
1 Tbsp organic raw honey: This adds a touch of sweetness and helps the yeast thrive. You can swap it for light brown sugar if you prefer.
1 packet rapid-rise yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): Essential for creating that airy crust. This type works quickly, making pizza night a breeze!
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds flavor and moisture to the dough. Feel free to use another light oil if needed, but olive oil is definitely worth it for its rich taste.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor through the crust. Fresh garlic is great, but be mindful of the amount to prevent overpowering the other tastes.
Pinch of sea salt: Elevates the overall flavor. Don’t skip it; it makes a world of difference!
1 cup pizza sauce: Use your favorite store-bought variety or whip up a homemade recipe for a fresh twist.
2 cups roasted butternut squash: This sweet, earthy vegetable gives the pizza a hearty feel. Roast until soft and caramelized for maximum flavor.
6 garlic cloves, roasted and roughly chopped: These develop a sweet and nutty flavor, balancing perfectly with the savory ingredients.
8 oz. fresh mozzarella, sliced or cubed: This melty cheese is the gooey star of your pizza. Go for fresh for that creamy texture!
2 oz. fresh sliced prosciutto: Adds a salty richness that complements the sweetness of the squash wonderfully. You could also use ham or crispy bacon as substitutions.
1 cup chopped kale, organic: This brings a fresh, vibrant crunch to your pizza; consider using spinach as another option if needed.
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: A light brush on the crust ensures that lovely golden brown color.
1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional): This adds an aromatic layer that complements the toppings beautifully. Feel free to omit if you prefer a more straightforward flavor.
Raw honey, for drizzle (optional): To finish off, a drizzle of honey elevates the savory notes with a touch of sweetness.

How to Make Comforting Fall Harvest Pizza with Prosciutto

Activate the Yeast: Start by mixing the warm water, honey, and yeast in the bowl of an electric mixer. If the yeast doesn’t foam after 5 minutes, it may be too old or inactive. This step is crucial since it’s what makes your crust rise beautifully fluffy. If you’re using a whisk, ensure the honey fully dissolves before proceeding.

Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the flour, garlic powder, and sea salt on low speed until a soft dough forms. Remember to blend fully, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. If your dough feels sticky, sprinkle in more flour, half a cup at a time until the texture is just right.

Knead the Dough: Turn up the mixer speed to medium-high and knead the dough for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s smooth and elastic, which indicates that the gluten has developed properly. If you’re kneading by hand, give it a solid workout on a floured surface.

Shape the Crust: Once kneaded, transfer the dough onto a floured surface and gently roll it out into an 11-inch circle. It should be slightly thicker at the edges for a crust. Place it on a greased pizza pan, ensuring it covers the entire surface well. Pinch the edges to give it that classic pizza shape!

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and position the top rack in the center. A high temperature is key to achieving that crispy crust, so don’t skip this step! While the oven warms up, you can prepare your toppings.

Prepare the Pizza Sauce: If you’re making your own pizza sauce, now’s the perfect time for that! A simple blend of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs can add a delightful homemade touch. But if you’re short on time, using a quality store-bought option works just as well.

Add the Toppings: Spread a few spoonfuls (about 1/2 cup) of sauce evenly across the center of your crust. Next, sprinkle the chopped kale and roasted garlic over the sauce. Layer the fresh mozzarella and then distribute the roasted butternut squash and slices of prosciutto all around the cheese, creating a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Brush and Season: Gently brush the edges of the crust with extra virgin olive oil for that golden glow while baking. If you’re using Italian seasoning, lightly sprinkle it over the top for added flavor. This step may seem small, but it helps build up those delicious flavors!

Bake the Pizza: Carefully place your pizza in the hot oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Watch for that moment when the cheese bubbles and the crust turns a beautiful golden brown. Trust your senses—the aroma will fill your kitchen and entice anyone nearby!

Cool and Serve: Let the pizza sit for a few minutes after taking it out. This allows the cheese to set perfectly, making for easier slicing. Cut generously and serve warm, perhaps with a drizzle of honey if you’re feeling adventurous. Enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftover pizza, let it cool to room temperature and place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last up to 3 months. To reheat, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. While the texture may change slightly, rewarming in the oven helps resurrect some of its original crispiness!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting, especially the water and olive oil. This helps in proper yeast activation.
Avoid over-kneading the dough; keep an eye on the texture instead. If it starts to feel tough then you’ve gone too far.
If you find your dough sticks to the pan, sprinkle some flour on it or use parchment paper underneath for easy transfer.
Experiment with toppings! Throw in seasonal veggies or different cheeses for a unique spin each time.
To avoid soggy crust, avoid overloading the pizza with too many wet ingredients; balance the toppings.
You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Let the gorgeous colors and warm flavors of this Comforting Fall Harvest Pizza with Prosciutto bring your kitchen to life. Each slice is all about celebrating the beauty of the season, blending wholesome ingredients with rich, comforting tastes. As you dig in, I hope this pizza becomes a cherished part of your fall traditions, creating memories just like the ones I hold dear. Enjoy the cheesy goodness, and don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients to suit your taste!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different cheese besides mozzarella?

Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is recommended for its gooey and creamy texture, you could try other options like provolone, gouda, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharper bite. Just remember to adjust the quantity according to your preference!

How do I prevent my pizza crust from getting soggy?

A common issue with homemade pizzas can be soggy crusts. To avoid this, be cautious with the amount of sauce you apply—less is often more. Pre-cooking watery toppings, like mushrooms or spinach, and using a well-heated pizza stone or pan can also help create a crispy base.

What’s the best way to roast butternut squash for this pizza?

For roasted butternut squash, peel, seed, and chop it into uniform cubes. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. Don’t rush this step; the sweetness developed during roasting is key!

Can I make this pizza vegan?

Yes! You can easily adapt this pizza to be vegan by omitting the prosciutto and mozzarella. Substituting with a dairy-free cheese and perhaps adding some caramelized onions or other veggies will still provide a delicious and satisfying flavor profile.