Portobello Mushroom Pizza Bake with Mozzarella and Fresh Toppings (Print version)

Meaty portobello mushroom caps baked with mozzarella, marinara, and fresh toppings. A gluten-free, low-carb pizza dinner ready in 30 minutes.

# Ingredients:

For the mushroom base

01 - 4 large portobello mushroom caps, stems removed and gills scraped
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

For the toppings

05 - 1/2 cup thick marinara or pizza sauce
06 - 1 1/2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella
07 - 1/2 cup sliced cherry tomatoes or diced bell peppers
08 - 1/4 cup sliced black olives or red onion
09 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
10 - Fresh basil leaves

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the stems and gently scrape out the dark gills with a spoon. Brush both sides of the caps with olive oil.
02 - Place the mushrooms gill side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes until they soften and release liquid. Carefully drain any water from the pan.
03 - Sprinkle the inside of each cap with garlic powder and salt. Spread 2 tablespoons of marinara into each cap, leaving a small border to prevent overflow.
04 - Divide the shredded mozzarella among the caps, then add your fresh toppings. Keep the layer balanced so nothing falls off.
05 - Return to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden and the mushroom is tender when pierced with a fork.
06 - Let rest for 2-3 minutes, then scatter torn basil and grated Parmesan over the top before serving.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served right after baking while the cheese is still stretchy.
02 - For firmer mushrooms, pre-roast for a full 10 minutes and drain well.