Tanya Rivers
If there’s one dish that embodies springtime flavors in the most delicious way, it’s this Crispy Morel & Asparagus Pizza. Imagine the rich, earthy aroma of freshly foraged morel mushrooms paired with the vibrant, crisp bite of tender asparagus spears, all resting on a bubbly, golden crust. Melted cheese ties everything together, creating an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
This pizza isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Perfect for a cozy weekend dinner or as a centerpiece for a casual gathering, it celebrates the season’s best produce while offering a gourmet twist to your regular pizza night. Whether you’re a mushroom enthusiast or simply craving a fresh, spring-inspired slice, this pizza will have you coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Morel & Asparagus Pizza
You’ll love this pizza for its harmony of earthy and fresh flavors. The crispy crust, combined with creamy cheese and the delicate nuttiness of morels, offers a perfect balance. Asparagus adds a bright green crunch, making each bite a little celebration of spring. Plus, this recipe is approachable enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for entertaining.
What Kind of Pizza Dough Should I Use?
While store-bought dough works perfectly for convenience, nothing beats homemade dough for that airy, chewy texture. If you opt for store-bought, look for fresh dough in the refrigerated section. For a crispier crust, par-bake your dough for a few minutes before adding toppings. A wood-fired oven or pizza stone can also elevate the texture and flavor of your pizza dramatically.
Ingredients for the Crispy Morel & Asparagus Pizza
Every ingredient in this pizza brings a special note to the symphony of flavors:
- Fresh morel mushrooms – These earthy gems are the star, providing deep, nutty richness.
- Asparagus spears – Crisp and bright, they add color and a tender crunch.
- Mozzarella cheese – Creamy and melty, the perfect base for all toppings.
- Olive oil – Enhances the flavor and ensures a golden crust.
- Garlic cloves – Adds aromatic depth to the overall taste.
- Pizza dough – The foundation for everything; choose a high-quality or homemade dough.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors to life.
How To Make the Crispy Morel & Asparagus Pizza
Step 1: Prep Your Dough and Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside to heat up. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Step 2: Sauté the Morels
Clean the morels thoroughly to remove any grit. Slice them and sauté in a skillet with olive oil and minced garlic for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
Brush the dough lightly with olive oil. Spread mozzarella evenly over the dough, followed by sautéed morels and fresh asparagus spears.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, season lightly with salt and black pepper, and allow to cool for 2 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy every earthy, cheesy bite.
Serving and Storing Your Crispy Morel & Asparagus Pizza
This pizza serves 4 people, making it perfect for a small family dinner or a weekend lunch. Serve it hot straight from the oven to enjoy the crispy crust and gooey cheese.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat slices in a hot skillet or oven to maintain the crust’s crunch.
What to Serve With Crispy Morel & Asparagus Pizza?
1. Mixed Green Salad
A refreshing salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the pizza.
2. Roasted Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
A side of roasted veggies complements the earthy mushroom tones.
3. Tomato Basil Soup
A warm, comforting soup adds a classic Italian touch.
4. Charcuterie Board
Serve some cured meats, cheeses, and olives for a rustic, Mediterranean vibe.
5. Sparkling Lemon Water
Bright and bubbly, it helps cleanse the palate between bites.
6. White Wine or Rosé
A light wine pairs beautifully with the mushrooms and asparagus.
7. Garlic Knots
Extra garlicky bread is always a hit alongside any pizza.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dried morel mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes! Rehydrate dried morels in warm water for 20 minutes, then sauté as directed.
2. What cheese works best besides mozzarella?
Fontina or Gruyère adds extra creaminess and a nutty flavor.
3. Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can pre-bake the crust and sauté the mushrooms in advance. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
4. Do I need to peel the asparagus?
No, just trim the woody ends. Thin spears work best for a crisp, tender bite.
5. How do I get a crispier crust?
Use a preheated pizza stone or steel and bake in a very hot oven for the best results.
Save This Pin For Later
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use extra cheese or try a drizzle of truffle oil?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter!
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Crispy Morel & Asparagus Pizza
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Oven
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (about 12 inches)
- 1 cup fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 6 asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to heat.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to desired thickness.
- In a skillet, sauté morel mushrooms with olive oil and minced garlic for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
- Brush the dough lightly with olive oil. Spread mozzarella cheese evenly, then top with sautéed morels and asparagus spears.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from oven, season with salt and black pepper, cool for 2 minutes, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
2. Thin asparagus spears cook more evenly and give the pizza a tender crunch.