Name: Cast Iron Pizza with Plant-Based Sausage and Roasted Vegetables Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 14 ounces Homemade Pizza Dough (from 1 recipe); 1 plant-based Italian sausage link (3 to 4 ounces), cut into small pieces; Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing and drizzling; Scoops of cashew cream or ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped red onion; ½ 14-ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered; ⅓ cup roasted red peppers and/or roasted tomatoes; Dollops of pesto; Basil leaves; Red pepper flakes

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 82 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a pizza experience that feels cozy, fresh, and totally bursting with flavor, this Cast Iron Pizza with Plant-Based Sausage and Roasted Vegetables Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s the perfect harmony of a crispy, golden crust cooked right in a cast iron skillet, topped with savory plant-based Italian sausage, colorful roasted vegetables, and luscious dollops of pesto and cashew cream. You’ll love how simple ingredients combine to create a pizza that’s not only mouthwatering but also has that irresistible homemade charm that keeps you coming back for more.

A cast iron pan holds a thick, round dough layer being pressed flat by two woman's hands, showing a beige, slightly textured surface with small holes poked evenly across the center. Nearby, a black skillet contains small browned food pieces with a wooden spatula resting inside. To the left, a light wooden board displays three pale yellow artichoke hearts and several bright red slices of red pepper. All items are placed on a white marbled surface with a crumpled white cloth and a light blue cloth adding soft textures in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You'll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to nailing this pizza every time. Each item plays an important role, from building the crispy crust to layering the vibrant, tasty toppings that create wonderful texture and color on your plate.

Plant-based Italian sausage (3 to 4 ounces): Adds rich, savory flavor with a delightful meaty texture without the meat.
Homemade pizza dough (14 ounces): The foundation of your pizza, this dough gives you a crisp crust with just the right chewiness.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Used for brushing and drizzling, it enhances the crust’s golden color and provides a subtle fruity richness.
Cashew cream or mozzarella cheese (½ cup): Acts as the creamy base, binding the toppings together and adding luscious notes of flavor.
Chopped red onion (2 tablespoons): Offers a mildly sweet sharpness and beautiful pops of color.
Artichoke hearts (½ 14-ounce can, drained and quartered): Brings tender, earthy complexity and a slight tang.
Roasted red peppers and/or roasted tomatoes (⅓ cup): Infuse smoky sweetness and a vibrant burst of warmth.
Pesto dollops: Adds herby brightness and a fresh pop of green that livens every bite.
Basil leaves: Fresh aromatic leaves that provide cooling herbal notes and garnish beauty.
Red pepper flakes: Sprinkle a bit for a touch of heat and extra flavor depth.

How to Make Cast Iron Pizza with Plant-Based Sausage and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Plant-Based Sausage

Start by slicing your plant-based Italian sausage into small, bite-sized pieces. Heat a small cast iron skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned, about 1 to 2 minutes. This quick searing heightens the sausage’s flavor and creates a beautiful caramelized texture that will give your pizza a satisfying bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough in the Skillet

Press your homemade pizza dough into a dry 10-inch cast iron skillet, making sure to shape a thicker rim around the edges for that classic crust uplift. Use a fork to prick the dough all over—this step prevents air bubbles and keeps the crust even while baking. Then, place the skillet over medium heat on your stove for 2 minutes to help crisp the bottom crust before baking.

Step 3: Assemble Your Pizza

Remove the skillet from heat and brush the entire crust with a generous coating of olive oil to lock in moisture and add richness. Spread a thin layer of cashew cream or sprinkle grated mozzarella for a creamy base. Add the browned sausage pieces, followed by chopped red onion, quartered artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers or tomatoes. Layering your toppings with intention here ensures every slice is loaded and flavorful.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your skillet to a preheated 450°F oven, baking for 10 to 12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are bubbly and cooked through. Keep an eye on the pizza so the edges get perfectly crispy without burning.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Toppings

Once your pizza is out of the oven, add dollops of vibrant pesto, a drizzle of olive oil, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. These final touches give your pizza a burst of freshness, spice, and visual appeal that will have you excited for each bite.

How to Serve Cast Iron Pizza with Plant-Based Sausage and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

A black cast iron pan holds small, round, golden-brown fried pieces spread evenly inside. A light wooden spatula rests on the pan, touching some of the pieces. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, with a blue cloth napkin folded and placed right behind the pan's handle. Below the pan, part of a round dough ball is visible on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like basil and red pepper flakes are game changers. Not only do they brighten the dish’s flavors, but they also elevate the look of your pizza for a restaurant-worthy presentation at home. Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra zest and cheese-like aroma.

Side Dishes

Pair this pizza with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a bowl of garlic-roasted mushrooms for complementary flavors and textures. If you want something heartier, a simple bowl of soup, like tomato basil or roasted red pepper, can round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your cast iron pizza into wedges and serve on rustic wooden boards or large ceramic plates to highlight the artisanal, homemade feel. For casual gatherings, offer bowls of additional freshly chopped basil, chili flakes, and olive oil so everyone can customize their slices to their liking. You might even experiment with layering the toppings differently, adding caramelized onions or switching up the roasted vegetables depending on the season.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any pizza left (which is rare), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen when chilled, making your next meal just as delightful.

Freezing

You can freeze the pizza after it's baked by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. Frozen pizza slices will maintain quality for up to one month, making this recipe perfect for meal prepping or quick snacks.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pizza slices in a cast iron skillet or oven at 375°F until warmed through and the crust crisps back up, about 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave as it tends to make the crust soggy and take away from that perfect cast iron crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made store-bought dough instead of homemade?

Absolutely! While homemade dough adds a personal touch and amazing texture, many good quality store-bought doughs perform beautifully for this recipe. Just be sure to press it thin and evenly.

What if I can't find plant-based Italian sausage?

If you don’t have access to plant-based sausage, feel free to substitute with other plant-based proteins, like seasoned tempeh or crumbled tofu, flavored with Italian herbs. You can also use regular sausage if you’re not following a plant-based diet.

Is cashew cream necessary, or can I use cheese only?

Cashew cream offers a wonderful dairy-free, creamy base that also gives richness without overwhelming the vegetables’ flavors. However, grated mozzarella or your favorite cheese works perfectly if you prefer a more traditional pizza taste.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Heating the cast iron skillet before baking and pricking the dough helps create a barrier against sogginess. Also, avoid overloading the pizza with wet toppings like very juicy tomatoes or too much sauce.

Can I customize the toppings?

This Cast Iron Pizza with Plant-Based Sausage and Roasted Vegetables Recipe is super flexible! Swap in your favorite vegetables or plant-based proteins to match your personal cravings or whatever’s fresh at the market.

Final Thoughts

This Cast Iron Pizza with Plant-Based Sausage and Roasted Vegetables Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy homemade pizza that feels both comforting and fresh. The combination of crispy crust, savory sausage, and vibrant roasted veggies creates a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. I can’t encourage you enough to try this recipe and make it your own—it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Cast Iron Pizza with Plant-Based Sausage and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need