Bacon and Caramelized Onion Detroit-Style Pizza

Nut-free option, Soy-free option 

This recipe levels up our Detroit-Style Cheese Pizza by adding Tofu “Bacon”, caramelized onion and a Garlic Aioli drizzle. We can’t choose one over the other, so we recommend you make one of each—along with Garlic Cheese Bread, of course.

Bacon and Caramelized Onion Detroit-Style Pizza is a delectable dish that brings together a combination of flavors and textures to create a truly indulgent experience. This pizza variation takes inspiration from the Detroit-style pizza, known for its rectangular shape, thick crust, and unique cheese placement along the edges. With the addition of savory “bacon” and sweet caramelized onions, this pizza is elevated to a new level of taste and satisfaction.

The process begins with the slow caramelization of white onions, which adds a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor. As the onions cook down in vegan butter, their natural sugars are released and transformed into a rich, golden-brown hue, creating a delicious topping that perfectly balances the pizza’s other elements.

The pizza dough, pressed into a baking dish, serves as the canvas for this culinary masterpiece. A layer of vegan marinara sauce is generously spread over the dough, providing a vibrant and tangy base. Vegan Mozzarella shreds cover the sauce, melting to create a creamy, cheesy layer that complements the toppings.

A plant-based “bacon” alternative adds a smoky and savory component, enhancing the overall umami profile of the pizza. The tofu-based “bacon” slices are prepared and scattered across the surface, ensuring every bite is rich in flavor and texture.

To further enhance the taste, a simple yet effective mixture of melted vegan butter and Garlic Salt is brushed over the baked crust. This step not only adds a hint of buttery richness but also infuses the crust with a subtle garlic essence.

Culminating in a harmonious flavor ensemble, the caramelized onions are generously scattered over the top, contributing a luxurious sweetness that beautifully complements the savory elements. A final drizzle of Garlic Aioli lends a creamy and garlicky finish, elevating the pizza’s overall taste profile.

The result is a visually stunning, irresistibly flavorful, and utterly satisfying pizza creation that boasts a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy components. With its thick, crispy crust and layers of enticing flavors, the Bacon and Caramelized Onion Detroit-Style Pizza is a true delight for those seeking a unique and indulgent plant-based pizza experience.

PREP TIME: 15 minutes, plus prep time for Pizza Dough and Garlic Aioli

COOK TIME: 50 to 55 minutes

YIELD: 8 to 10 slices

INGREDIENTS:

CARAMELIZED ONIONS 

• 2 tbsp (28 g) vegan butter
• 1 medium-sized white onion, sliced

PIZZA

• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 batch Pizza Dough
• 1 cup (240 g) vegan marinara sauce
• 2 cups (226 g) vegan Mozzarella shreds
• 6 slices Tofu “Bacon” or prepared store-bought alternative
• 1 tbsp (14 g) vegan butter, melted
• 1 tsp Garlic Salt
• ¼ cup (60 g) Garlic Aioli

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Make the Carmelized Onions:
   • In a small skillet, melt the vegan butter over medium-low heat.
   • Stir in the sliced onion. Cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, over low heat for 45 minutes.
   • Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring often, for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Make the Pizza:
   • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Brush a 9 x 13–inch baking dish with olive oil.
   • Press the pizza dough into the pan, spreading it at the corners and up the sides for a thinner crust and thicker base.
   • Evenly spread the marinara sauce over the pizza dough and top with the vegan Mozzarella shreds.
   • Sprinkle the chopped “bacon” on top of the cheese.
   • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the crust is crispy and the Mozzarella is melted.
3. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, stir together the melted vegan butter and Garlic Salt.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Once the pizza is out of the oven, brush the butter and Garlic Salt mixture over the crust.
   • Evenly sprinkle the caramelized onion on top of the pizza.
   • Drizzle the Garlic Aioli over the pizza.
   • Let the pizza cool for about 3 minutes, then carefully remove it from the baking dish and place it on a cutting board.
   • Slice the pizza into eight to ten pieces and serve immediately.