Print

Caramelized Onion Pesto Flatbread Pizza Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Caramelized Onion Pesto Flatbread Pizza combines crisp flatbread, vibrant basil pesto, sweet caramelized onions, mozzarella, and Parmesan. It is an easy, flavorful option for dinner, lunch, or a shareable appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium flatbreads or naan, about 8 to 10 inches each
  • 2 medium yellow or sweet onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, optional
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, optional

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the thinly sliced onions and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir to coat the onions and reduce the heat if they begin browning too quickly.
  3. Cook the onions for 25 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until very soft, deeply golden, and caramelized. If they begin sticking, add a small splash of water and scrape the browned bits from the skillet.
  4. While the onions finish cooking, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the flatbreads on top.
  5. Spread approximately 2 1/2 tablespoons basil pesto over each flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.
  6. Divide the mozzarella evenly between the flatbreads, then distribute the caramelized onions over the cheese.
  7. Sprinkle the Parmesan, black pepper, garlic powder if using, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired over the pizzas.
  8. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes, until the mozzarella is melted and bubbling and the flatbread edges are crisp and golden.
  9. Remove the pizzas from the oven and let them rest for about 2 minutes.
  10. Garnish with fresh basil, additional Parmesan, or balsamic glaze if desired. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • Cook the onions slowly over medium-low or low heat for the best caramelized flavor. High heat can burn the onions before they soften properly.
  • Use a thin layer of pesto to prevent the flatbread from becoming soggy.
  • For a goat cheese variation, add about 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese before baking.
  • For a heartier pizza, add about 1 cup chopped cooked chicken before baking.
  • Cooked mushrooms, roasted red peppers, spinach, or halved cherry tomatoes can be added, but moisture-rich toppings should be drained well.
  • For a fresh finish, add arugula immediately after the pizzas come out of the oven.
  • Caramelized onions can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the pizzas.
  • Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
  • Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5 to 8 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crisp texture.

Nutrition