Name: Sweet Potato and Kale Pizza with Balsamic Drizzle
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and thinly sliced or cubed; 1 cup kale, stems removed and torn into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction; Salt and pepper, to taste; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional); Cornmeal or flour, for stretching the dough

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded with nourishing vegetables and rich flavor
Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and heartiness
Kale bakes into crispy, flavorful bites
Balsamic drizzle adds a bright and tangy finish
A great vegetarian pizza that feels indulgent
Perfect way to use seasonal ingredients
Customizable with different cheeses or add-ins
Great for meal prep or weeknight dinners
Pairs beautifully with salads or soups
Visually stunning and full of texture

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Sweet potato, peeled and thinly sliced or cubed
Kale, stems removed and torn into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil
Shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese
Garlic, minced
Balsamic glaze or reduction
Salt and pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
Cornmeal or flour (for stretching the dough)

Directions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
Prepare sweet potatoes: Toss sliced or cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 15–20 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
Massage the kale: Toss kale with a bit of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface or parchment paper. Transfer to a pizza peel or baking sheet.
Assemble the pizza: Lightly brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic evenly across the surface.
Add a layer of shredded cheese, then top with roasted sweet potato and kale. Add herbs or red pepper flakes if desired.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Finish with balsamic drizzle after baking. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 large pizza, serving 2 to 4 people.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use goat cheese or feta instead of mozzarella for a tangy twist
Add red onion or caramelized onions for extra flavor
Try a white sauce base like ricotta or béchamel
Sprinkle with toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch
Use spinach or arugula instead of kale if preferred
Add sliced apple or pear for a sweet-savory combo
Make it spicy with hot honey or fresh chili slices

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freeze individual slices after cooling, wrapped tightly and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen sweet potatoes?

Fresh sweet potatoes are best for texture, but canned can work if well-drained and lightly roasted first.

What kind of kale should I use?

Lacinato (dino) or curly kale both work well—just be sure to remove tough stems and massage with oil.

Do I have to roast the sweet potatoes first?

Yes, roasting enhances their flavor and ensures they cook through during the pizza bake.

Can I make this pizza vegan?

Yes, simply use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast in place of regular cheese.

Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar?

No, balsamic glaze is a reduced, sweeter version. You can make it by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened.

Can I use a pre-baked crust?

Absolutely. Adjust the bake time to warm the toppings and melt the cheese, around 8–10 minutes.

What cheese pairs best with sweet potatoes?

Mozzarella, Fontina, goat cheese, or even ricotta work beautifully with sweet potato.

How do I prevent the kale from burning?

Lightly massage it with oil and avoid overloading it. Place it under cheese or add partway through baking if needed.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can roast the sweet potatoes and prep the kale ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving.

What goes well with this pizza as a side?

A simple arugula salad or a bowl of butternut squash soup pairs perfectly for a full fall-inspired meal.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato and Kale Pizza with Balsamic Drizzle is a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy the season’s best produce. With its combination of earthy veggies, creamy cheese, and a sweet-tangy finish, this pizza is both satisfying and sophisticated. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, a gathering, or simply craving something different, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.