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🍕 BBQ “Meatball” Pizza [Vegetarian] – Smoky, Saucy & Seriously Satisfying! 🌱🔥

Get ready for a flavor-packed, plant-based twist on a classic favorite. This BBQ Meatball Pizza uses vegetarian “meatballs” (store-bought or homemade), tangy BBQ sauce, and melty cheese to deliver a comfort-food experience that’s 100% meat-free and 100% delicious.

Ingredients

(Serves 2–3)

For the pizza:

  • 1 prepared pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety – sweet, smoky, or spicy)

  • 6–8 vegetarian meatballs, halved or crumbled (store-bought like Gardein, Beyond, or homemade lentil/mushroom balls)

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or plant-based cheese if vegan)

  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional – adds a sweet crunch)

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

  • Olive oil, for brushing


Optional Toppings:

    • Jalapeño slices (for heat)

    • Pineapple chunks (for sweet + smoky combo)

    • Crumbled feta or goat cheese (if not vegan)

    • Red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Preheat oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

  • If using a pizza stone or steel, place it in the oven while preheating.

2. Prepare the dough:

  • Roll or stretch the pizza dough into a 10–12 inch circle.

  • Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a floured pizza peel.

3. Build your pizza:

  • Brush the crust lightly with olive oil.

  • Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the base.

  • Sprinkle half of the cheese over the sauce.

  • Distribute the vegetarian meatballs, onions, and corn across the pizza.

  • Top with the remaining cheese.

4. Bake:

  • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

  • If using a pizza stone/steel, bake directly on it for a crispier crust.

5. Garnish & serve:

  • Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley.

  • Slice and serve hot!

Notes

✔️ Want a smoky twist? Mix BBQ sauce + a dash of liquid smoke.
✔️ For a gluten-free version, use GF dough and check the meatballs’ labels.
✔️ If using frozen meatballs, thaw slightly before adding to pizza for better texture.