When it comes to pizza, we love exploring new flavors beyond the usual tomato and mozzarella. That’s how our Sweet Potato & Goat Cheese Pizza was born! This recipe layers thinly sliced sweet potatoes, creamy goat cheese, and caramelized onions over a perfectly crisp crust, then finishes with peppery arugula and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. Each bite is an exciting mix of sweet, savory, tangy, and earthy – a gourmet twist that’s as satisfying as it is unique!
We first tried a version of this pizza at a little bistro and were instantly hooked. The combination of ingredients seemed unusual but tasted incredible, so we had to recreate it at home. Now, this pizza has become a favorite, especially for gatherings or when we’re craving something a little fancy. It’s the perfect blend of cozy and gourmet!
🍠 Why Sweet Potatoes on Pizza?
Sweet potatoes add a delicious, slightly sweet flavor that balances perfectly with the tangy goat cheese and savory onions. Plus, they bring a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes each bite extra satisfying!
Caramelized Onions for Depth and Sweetness
Caramelized onions are one of the stars of this pizza. Slowly cooked until golden and sweet, they add depth and a touch of sweetness that complements the creamy goat cheese and hearty sweet potatoes. Caramelizing onions takes a little patience, but the result is absolutely worth it – their rich, sweet flavor ties all the other ingredients together beautifully.
When we make this pizza, we always start by caramelizing the onions first. It takes about 20-30 minutes, but don’t rush it! Letting the onions cook slowly is key to bringing out their natural sweetness.
🧅 Onion Caramelizing Tip
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to the onions as they cook to enhance their natural sweetness and give them a rich, deep flavor.
A Perfect Finish with Arugula & Balsamic Reduction
Once the pizza is baked to perfection, we like to top it with fresh arugula. The arugula adds a peppery bite and a pop of green that brings a fresh contrast to the creamy, sweet toppings. And for the final touch? A drizzle of balsamic reduction! The balsamic adds a tangy sweetness that elevates every bite and makes the flavors pop.
You can easily make balsamic reduction at home by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens, or buy a pre-made one to save time. Just a little drizzle goes a long way, adding that gourmet feel to this delicious pizza.
🌿 Pro Tip: Add Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the pizza before baking for a touch of herbaceous flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet potatoes and goat cheese.
How to Make It Vegan
For a vegan version, swap the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese or cashew cheese, which will add the same creamy texture. This vegan twist is just as flavorful and perfect for sharing with friends and family who prefer a plant-based diet.
We’ve made this pizza vegan several times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The sweet potatoes, caramelized onions, and arugula create such a delicious combination that even cheese lovers don’t miss a thing!
🍕 Vegan Cheese Tip
Look for a vegan cheese that melts well and has a tangy flavor profile, like almond-based goat cheese alternatives, to capture that creamy, savory bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Sweet Potato & Goat Cheese Pizza is a showstopper, ideal for gatherings, date nights, or when you’re in the mood for a homemade gourmet meal. It’s different enough to impress guests but simple enough to make on a casual weeknight. We love pairing it with a glass of red wine or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s one of those recipes that always feels special and makes you savor every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough store-bought or homemade
- 1 large sweet potato peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 large onions thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter or vegan butter
- 4 oz goat cheese or vegan cheese
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup for vegan option
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or agave syrup).
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the mixture is reduced by half and has a syrupy consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Slices: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the sweet potato slices with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the slices on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Assemble the Pizza: Increase the oven temperature to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper for easy handling.
- Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dough.
- Arrange the roasted sweet potato slices on top.
- Crumble the goat cheese (or sprinkle the vegan cheese) over the pizza.
- Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Top with fresh arugula and drizzle with the balsamic reduction.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato & Goat Cheese Pizza
🤔 Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the toppings in advance. Caramelize the onions, slice the sweet potatoes, and have everything ready to assemble when you’re ready to bake.
🍠 Do I need to cook the sweet potatoes before baking?
Nope! Slice the sweet potatoes very thin, and they’ll cook through perfectly in the oven on top of the pizza.
🌱 Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use a vegan cheese or cashew-based cheese instead of goat cheese. All the other ingredients are already vegan-friendly.
🍕 Can I use another type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feta, ricotta, or even a mild blue cheese would be great substitutes if you’re looking to try a variation.
🍷 What goes well with this pizza?
This pizza pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine or a light, crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette. It’s also great with roasted veggies on the side.
🔥 Can I grill this pizza?
Yes! Just pre-cook the sweet potatoes slightly if grilling. Grill the pizza over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the crust is crisp and toppings are warm.
🥬 Is there an alternative to arugula?
Sure! Try spinach or baby kale for a similar peppery flavor, or leave it off if you prefer a milder taste.
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