The Ultimate Vegan Pizza with Tempeh Sausage Crumbles

Can a Vegan Pizza Really Satisfy a Meat-Lover’s Craving?

Let’s be honest: for many, the idea of a pizza without real cheese and sausage sounds like a pale imitation of the real thing. But what if I told you that a completely plant-based pizza could be so savory, so “meaty,” and so utterly delicious that it could win over even the most skeptical carnivore? It’s time to challenge your pizza perceptions. This isn’t just another vegan pizza recipe; it’s a culinary game-changer. We’re crafting a pizza with savory, homemade tempeh sausage crumbles and gooey, stretchy vegan mozzarella that delivers all the satisfaction of a classic pie. Get ready to discover how a simple, homemade vegan pizza can become the star of your weekly menu, no compromises necessary.

The Building Blocks of a Perfect Vegan Pizza

The magic of this pizza lies in its thoughtful components, from the chewy homemade crust to the flavor-packed tempeh sausage. Each ingredient is chosen to create a symphony of textures and tastes.

A Baker’s Rewarding Timeline

Creating this stellar vegan pizza from scratch is a satisfying journey. Expect about 20 minutes of active prep time for the dough and toppings. The dough requires a 60-90 minute rise, and baking takes about 15-20 minutes. The total time of roughly 2 hours is a worthy investment for a pizza that blows delivery out of the water.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Pizza Perfection

Step 1: Master the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix with a spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Craft the Savory Tempeh Sausage

While the dough rises, prepare the tempeh. Crumble the tempeh block into small, irregular pieces with your hands. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the crumbled tempeh and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Stir in the fennel seeds, basil, oregano, and red chili pepper flakes. Finally, pour in the soy sauce and cook for another minute until the liquid is absorbed. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well. Gently punch down the risen dough and stretch it out on a lightly floured surface or piece of parchment paper to your desired thickness. Transfer the dough to a pizza pan or the preheated stone.

Step 4: Layer on the Flavor

Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle with your choice of shredded vegan mozzarella. Evenly distribute the delicious tempeh sausage crumbles over the cheese. Finish with your favorite chopped vegetables.

Step 5: Bake to Golden-Brown Bliss

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the vegan cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

this now & bake later ❤️

Nutritional Insights

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for one slice (assuming the pizza is cut into 8 slices). Values are estimates and will vary based on your specific toppings and vegan cheese choice.

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal
• Protein: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Fat: 10-14g
• Fiber: 5g

Healthier Swaps for Your Vegan Pizza

This recipe is already packed with plant-powered goodness, but you can tailor it further:

• Whole-Grain Crust: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for an extra boost of fiber and nutrients.
• Oil-Free Option: The tempeh can be dry-crumbled and baked, and the oil in the dough can be replaced with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version.
• Load Up on Veggies: Don’t be shy with the vegetables! The more you add, the more vitamins, minerals, and fiber you’ll get in every bite.
• Nut-Based Cheese: Opt for a homemade cashew or almond-based mozzarella for a whole-foods approach to the cheesy topping.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Elevate your pizza night with these appealing serving ideas:

• Classic Pizzeria Style: Serve hot from the oven with a side of vegan ranch dressing or extra marinara for dipping the crusts.
• Salad Pairing: Pair a slice with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Gourmet Garnish: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or top with a sprinkle of fresh basil or vegan parmesan cheese after baking.
• Pizza Party: Make personal-sized pizzas and let everyone customize their own toppings for a fun, interactive meal.

Common Pizza Pitfalls to Avoid

Ensure your vegan pizza is a triumph by sidestepping these common mistakes:

• Using Cold Dough: Stretching cold dough is difficult and can lead to a tough crust. Always let refrigerated dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping.
• Overloading Toppings: It’s tempting, but piling on too many toppings can result in a soggy crust that doesn’t cook through properly.
• Not Preheating the Oven Enough: A scorching hot oven is essential for a crispy, well-risen crust. Don’t rush this step!
• Skipping the Tempeh Simmer: Simmering or steaming tempeh for about 10 minutes before crumbling it can help reduce its natural bitterness, resulting in a more savory “sausage.”

Storing and Reheating Tips

Enjoy your delicious vegan pizza for days to come with these practical storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pizza slices in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftover slices for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually for easy single-serving meals.
• The Best Reheating Methods: For a crispy crust, reheat slices in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, in a dry skillet over medium heat, or directly on the rack in a conventional oven. Avoid the microwave if you dislike a soft, chewy crust.

A Truly Satisfying Plant-Based Pie

In conclusion, this vegan pizza recipe proves that you don’t need meat or dairy to create an incredibly satisfying and flavorful pizza. The homemade dough provides the perfect chewy-crisp foundation, while the savory tempeh sausage crumbles offer a wonderfully “meaty” texture and taste. This recipe is a testament to the delicious possibilities of plant-based cooking and is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home.

We invite you to get creative in the kitchen and make this recipe your own! Share your results, questions, or favorite topping combinations in the comments below. For more delicious vegan recipes, be sure to subscribe to our blog!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Using a pre-made vegan pizza dough is a great way to save time. Just skip the dough-making steps and proceed with the toppings.

Is tempeh gluten-free?

Most tempeh is made from soybeans and is naturally gluten-free, but some varieties include grains. Always check the packaging to be sure. Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the sausage crumbles gluten-free.

My vegan cheese doesn’t melt well. What can I do?

The quality of store-bought vegan cheese varies greatly. For the best melt, look for brands specifically formulated for melting, or try our “Easy Stretchy Vegan Mozzarella” recipe. A light spray of oil on top of the cheese can also help it melt more evenly.

Can I make the tempeh sausage ahead of time?

Yes! The tempeh sausage crumbles can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making pizza night even quicker.

What is the best surface to bake my pizza on?

A preheated pizza stone or steel will give you the best, crispiest crust. If you don’t have one, an inverted baking sheet preheated in the oven is a great alternative.