Best Vegan Deep Dish Recipe for Delicious Plant-Based Pizza

There’s nothing quite as comforting and indulgent as a deep dish pizza, especially when it’s packed with vibrant, fresh ingredients and a golden, crispy crust. But what if you’re following a vegan lifestyle or simply want to enjoy a plant-based treat?

Enter the best vegan deep dish recipe that combines hearty vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and a perfectly flaky crust—all without any animal products. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this recipe offers the perfect balance of flavor and texture that will satisfy pizza lovers of all kinds.

This vegan deep dish is designed to be both filling and wholesome, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy weekend cooking. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies and vegan cheeses, ensuring every bite is bursting with deliciousness.

Ready to dive into a slice of plant-based heaven? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan deep dish pizza is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, the crust is light yet sturdy enough to hold a generous amount of toppings without becoming soggy.

It’s made with simple pantry staples, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. The tomato sauce is rich and well-spiced, simmered to perfection to bring out the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and herbs.

Moreover, the layered vegetables add wonderful texture and color, from sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers to fresh spinach and olives. The vegan cheese topping melts beautifully, offering that indulgent gooeyness we all crave from a classic deep dish.

This recipe is also great for meal prep, as leftovers reheat wonderfully. For a pizza night that’s both comforting and compassionate, this recipe shines!

Ingredients

• For the crust: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons cornmeal (for dusting)
• For the sauce: 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the toppings: 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• ½ cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• ½ cup vegan parmesan cheese (optional)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
• 9-inch deep dish pizza pan or cast iron skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Medium saucepan
• Knife and cutting board
• Oven

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or mix by hand.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
4. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Make the tomato sauce: While the dough is rising, heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Prepare the toppings: Sauté mushrooms and bell peppers in a splash of olive oil over medium heat until slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
7. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease the deep dish pan and sprinkle the bottom with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
8. Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Press the dough evenly across the bottom and up the sides to create a thick crust base.
9. Assemble the pizza: Spread half of the tomato sauce evenly over the crust. Layer the sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, fresh spinach leaves, and sliced olives. Pour the remaining sauce over the veggies. Top generously with shredded vegan mozzarella and sprinkle vegan parmesan if using.
10. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the vegan cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Cool and serve: Let the pizza rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.

Tips & Variations

For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the dough for 7-8 minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.

Feel free to customize your deep dish pizza with your favorite vegetables such as artichoke hearts, zucchini, or caramelized onions. For a smoky flavor, add a splash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to your tomato sauce.

If you prefer a nut-based vegan cheese, homemade cashew mozzarella is a fantastic alternative.

To make the crust gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though the texture will be slightly different. You can also add fresh herbs like basil or rosemary into the dough for an aromatic twist.

And if you love experimenting with dough, check out the Magic Dough Recipe for more delicious variations!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan deep dish pizza pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables to keep the meal light and fresh. A simple kale salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly.

For drinks, try a sparkling water with a splash of fresh lemon or your favorite vegan-friendly red wine.

For a fun twist, serve alongside a bowl of vegan chili, such as the spicy and hearty Lil Smokies Chili Recipe, to create a comforting and filling meal experience.

Conclusion

This best vegan deep dish recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy all the indulgence of a traditional deep dish pizza without any animal products. With its crispy crust, savory tomato sauce, and vibrant vegetable toppings, it’s perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike.

The recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests.

By making your own dough and sauce, you control the flavors and ingredients, ensuring a wholesome and satisfying dish every time. Plus, the recipe is highly adaptable, letting you tailor it to your tastes and dietary needs.

For more delicious vegan recipes, be sure to check out the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes and the delightful Leche De Pantera Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

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