Pizza night just got a major upgrade with this 5-Ingredient Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza! Featuring a creamy pumpkin base, melted gouda cheese, and a crispy crust, this recipe brings bold, unexpected flavors to your table. It’s simple, delicious, and ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal effort.

This savory-sweet pizza is an exciting twist on traditional pizza recipes. The creamy pumpkin puree provides a flavorful and slightly sweet base, while gouda cheese adds richness and a smoky depth. A sprinkle of fresh arugula on top adds a peppery bite that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this pizza is guaranteed to stand out. Let’s jump into the recipe and create a pizza that’s as easy as it is impressive!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza

Here’s why this unique pizza recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen:

Quick and Easy:
With just five ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this gourmet pizza ready in under 30 minutes.
Unique Flavors:
The combination of creamy pumpkin, smoky gouda, and crisp arugula is a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and unexpected.
Perfect for Fall or Anytime:
This recipe is especially great in the fall when pumpkin season is in full swing, but it’s so good, you’ll want to make it year-round.
Customizable:
While delicious as is, you can easily add your own toppings like caramelized onions, crispy bacon, or roasted nuts to elevate it further.
Dinner, Lunch, or Appetizer:
This pizza is versatile enough to serve as a main dish, a lunch option, or even sliced into smaller pieces for a party appetizer.

Ingredients for Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza

This recipe is all about keeping it simple with just five ingredients:

1. Pizza Crust

Store-bought or homemade pizza dough works perfectly. You can also use flatbread or naan bread for an even quicker option.

2. Pumpkin Puree

Use canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for the base. Its creamy texture and natural sweetness make it the perfect sauce substitute.

3. Gouda Cheese

Gouda cheese melts beautifully and brings a rich, smoky flavor to the pizza. You can use smoked gouda for an extra flavor boost.

4. Arugula

Fresh arugula adds a peppery bite and a pop of color that balances the rich flavors of the pumpkin and cheese.

5. Olive Oil

A drizzle of olive oil ties everything together and adds a touch of richness to the finished pizza.

Optional Add-ins

While the recipe is delicious as is, feel free to add the following for extra flavor:

Caramelized Onions: For a hint of sweetness.
Crispy Bacon or Pancetta: Adds a salty, savory punch.
Roasted Walnuts or Pecans: For a nutty crunch.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a spicy kick.

How to Make Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza

Follow these simple steps to create this gourmet-inspired pizza:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out your pizza dough or flatbread onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding the toppings.

Step 2: Spread the Pumpkin Puree

Spread an even layer of pumpkin puree over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 3: Add the Gouda Cheese

Sprinkle shredded gouda cheese evenly over the pumpkin puree.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden, and the crust is crispy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Top with fresh arugula and drizzle with olive oil. Slice and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some ideas:

Salad: Serve with a simple arugula or mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Soup: Pair with a warm bowl of butternut squash or tomato soup for a cozy meal.
Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the flavors beautifully.
Appetizer: Slice it into small pieces and serve as an appetizer for a party or gathering.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin and Gouda Pizza

Use High-Quality Pumpkin Puree: The pumpkin is the base of this pizza, so make sure to use pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
Shred Your Own Cheese: Freshly shredded gouda melts better and has a creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese.
Don’t Overload the Toppings: Keep it simple to let the pumpkin and gouda flavors shine.
Crisp the Crust: Pre-bake the crust for a few minutes if you like it extra crispy.
Add the Arugula Last: Always add the fresh arugula after baking to preserve its vibrant color and peppery flavor.