Pin It This Cajun Roasted Veggie Pizza is my favorite way to spice up pizza night without a fuss. There is something magical about smoky charred peppers and zucchini tossed with bold Cajun spices and melty cheese. The crisp crust is the perfect canvas for those vibrant veggies. Whether you are feeding a crowd or just want something fun and flavorful on a busy weeknight this pie always delivers.
Every time I make this the aroma gets my entire household excited. Roasting the vegetables separately really coaxes out their sweetness and smoky edges. It is one of those dinners that vanishes almost as fast as it comes out of the oven.
Ingredients
- Red bell pepper: Sweetness and color Pick peppers that feel heavy and have shiny smooth skin
- Zucchini: Juicy rounds soak up the seasoning Look for firm squash without dents or soft spots
- Red onion: Adds a subtle tang and a bit of bite Choose onions with tight skin and no blemishes
- Cremini mushrooms: Bring an earthy depth Pick mushrooms with dry smooth caps and avoid any that are slimy
- Cherry tomatoes: A burst of juicy sweetness Go for brightly colored tomatoes that have no wrinkles
- Olive oil: Brings everything together and helps veggies roast evenly Use a robust extra-virgin variety for flavor
- Cajun seasoning: Packs all the punch Seek out blends labeled salt-free if you like to control sodium and check the ingredients for freshness
- Salt and black pepper: Let the veggies and cheese pop I like fine sea salt and freshly ground pepper for even seasoning
- Prepared pizza dough: The backbone of the pizza Try to grab fresh dough from a bakery or refrigerated section for the best chew and crispness
- Pizza sauce: Tomato base ties it all together A simple garlicky sauce or even marinara works great
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to creamy perfection Use whole-milk mozzarella for extra richness
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a tangy nutty finish Freshly grated always melts and browns better
- Chopped fresh parsley: Optional but brightens up the final pizza Flat-leaf parsley has the best flavor
- Red pepper flakes: For some tingly heat Totally up to your spice level grab the freshest flakes you have
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Get your oven blazing at 220C or 425F Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup and even roasting
- Roast the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl toss sliced bell pepper zucchini onion mushrooms and cherry tomatoes with olive oil Cajun seasoning salt and pepper Mix them gently until every piece is nicely coated
- Char and Soften the Veggies:
- Spread the tossed veggies evenly over the prepared baking sheet Pop them in the oven and roast 15 to 18 minutes Watch for the edges to caramelize and the tomatoes to collapse just a bit
- Prepare the Pizza Dough:
- While the veggies roast take your pizza dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 12 inches Be gentle for a chewy crisp result Place it on a greased pizza pan or another lined baking sheet
- Sauce and Cheese Layer:
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough leaving a small border near the edge for a golden crust Sprinkle half the mozzarella next This anchors the veggies and adds extra moisture
- Add Roasted Veggies and More Cheese:
- Once the veggies come out of the oven arrange them all across the sauce and cheese layer Scatter the remaining mozzarella and finish with Parmesan for gooeyness and sharpness
- Bake the Pizza:
- Slide the loaded pizza into your hot oven Bake for 12 to 15 minutes The crust should puff up and turn deep golden while the cheese bubbles and browns in spots
- Finish and Garnish:
- Take the pizza out and give it a few minutes to cool This lets the cheese set a bit Shower with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if you want extra zip Slice it up and serve warm so every piece has a little bit of everything
Pin It My favorite touch is doubling the mushrooms for that earthy bite The first time I made this everyone piled into the kitchen just from the smell We have made this for everything from movie nights to birthday parties and always get recipe requests
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers store slices in an airtight container in the fridge They hold up for two to three days and reheat best in a hot oven or skillet I avoid the microwave as it softens the crust
Ingredient Substitutions
Try subbing in yellow squash or eggplant for the zucchini Any melty cheese works if mozzarella is not on hand If you want it vegan use your favorite plant-based cheese blend and check the pizza dough ingredients
Serving Suggestions
A simple arugula salad on the side is perfect for cutting through the cheese If you like a little more heat drizzle a bit of hot honey over the finished pie The pizza pairs well with a crisp lager or sparkling lemonade
Pin It This pizza is sure to become a favorite whether for a weeknight or for sharing with friends. Enjoy its bold flavors and crisp crust in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables work best for Cajun roasted topping?
Bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes roast well and take on Cajun seasoning beautifully. Feel free to add your favorites.
- → How do I achieve a crispy crust?
Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 220°C (425°F) and use a pizza stone or hot baking sheet. Rolling the dough evenly also helps.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute traditional pizza dough with a gluten-free version. All other components remain the same.
- → What cheese alternatives can be used for dairy-free?
Opt for plant-based mozzarella or Parmesan alternatives; they melt and taste great atop the pizza.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of Cajun seasoning or add sliced jalapeños and red pepper flakes for additional heat.