Pizza night just got a whole lot healthier and more delicious with this delightful veggie pizza recipe with cream cheese. Combining the creamy richness of cream cheese as a base with a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, this pizza offers a perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition.
Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for new ways to enjoy pizza or just seeking a tasty, veggie-packed meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends.
Unlike traditional tomato sauce pizzas, the cream cheese base lends a smooth and tangy flavor that complements the fresh veggies beautifully. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Let’s dive into making a pizza that’s as visually appealing as it is flavorful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This veggie pizza with cream cheese stands out for several reasons. First, the cream cheese base is a refreshing change from the usual tomato sauce, offering a velvety texture that enhances every bite.
The combination of colorful vegetables not only adds a nutritional boost but also creates a delightful variety of textures and flavors.
Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to swap in your favorite veggies or add herbs and spices to suit your palate. It’s perfect for vegetarians and can easily be adapted for guests with dietary restrictions.
Best of all, it’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, about 12 inches)
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Rolling pin (if using homemade dough)
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula for spreading cream cheese
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- Prepare the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, or a pizza peel if using a stone.
- Mix the cream cheese base: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the rolled-out pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Layer the vegetables: Arrange the spinach leaves first to create a bed, then evenly distribute the zucchini, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and black olives on top.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the vegetables for that gooey, melty goodness.
- Drizzle olive oil lightly over the top to help the veggies roast nicely and add flavor.
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove from oven and let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, slice, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
For a crispier crust, pre-bake the pizza dough for 5 minutes before adding the cream cheese and toppings.
You can easily customize this veggie pizza according to your preference or what’s in season. Try adding mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or roasted eggplant for different layers of flavor.
If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use vegan mozzarella cheese.
For added spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or try the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend on top before baking. To make it more filling, serve alongside a fresh salad or try pairing with one of our other favorites like Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Fat | 14 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sugar | 5 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
Serving Suggestions
This veggie pizza with cream cheese is perfect as a main dish for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and tomato salad to keep the meal fresh and light.
For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted garlic bread or garlic knots. If you want to keep the meal on the lighter side, consider enjoying the pizza with a bowl of soup such as a classic tomato basil or a creamy butternut squash.
To explore more delicious vegetarian options, be sure to check out our comprehensive collection, A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.
Conclusion
This veggie pizza with cream cheese is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier, vegetable-packed take on a classic favorite. The creamy base combined with fresh, vibrant veggies creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion — from quick weeknight dinners to casual weekend gatherings.
By incorporating a variety of fresh ingredients, this pizza not only tastes amazing but also provides essential nutrients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, this recipe is an excellent choice.
Don’t forget to browse more exciting vegetarian recipes like the Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love or try the 15 Minutes Veg Dinner Recipes for Quick Healthy Meals for more inspiration!
📖 Recipe Card: Veggie Pizza with Cream Cheese
Description: A delicious and creamy veggie pizza topped with fresh vegetables and smooth cream cheese. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (12-inch)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup sliced red onions
- 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out pizza dough on a baking sheet.
- Spread cream cheese evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Arrange bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, and olives evenly.
- Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables.
- Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 28 g
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