Caramelized Onion Kale Goat Cheese Pizza with Balsamic Drizzle Recipe
Introduction
This caramelized onion kale goat cheese pizza combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite. Topped with tender kale and a rich balsamic drizzle, it’s a delicious twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients
- 2 lbs part skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 prepared whole wheat pizza dough, or store bought
- 3 large onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz fresh baby kale
- 11 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- Balsamic cream:
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp unrefined sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium to high heat, add the sliced onions and olive oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 3: To make the balsamic cream, combine balsamic vinegar and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid reduces by half. Set aside to cool and thicken.
- Step 4: Lightly flour a flat surface and roll out each pizza dough with a rolling pin. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone, baking sheet, or cookie sheet, shaping to reach the edges.
- Step 5: Sprinkle 1 lb of shredded mozzarella evenly over each pizza. Top with caramelized onions and crumbled goat cheese.
- Step 6: Bake the pizzas in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh baby kale. Drizzle with the balsamic cream and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve right away.
Tips & Variations
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
- Substitute baby spinach for kale if you prefer a milder green.
- Add caramelized garlic with onions for extra depth of flavor.
- Use store-bought balsamic glaze as a shortcut instead of making balsamic cream.
Storage
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in a skillet or oven to keep the crust crisp. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the balsamic cream ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the balsamic cream a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before drizzling on the pizza.
What if I don’t have whole wheat pizza dough?
Regular pizza dough or store-bought pre-made crusts work just as well. Adjust baking times slightly if using a thinner or thicker crust.
Print
Caramelized Onion Kale Goat Cheese Pizza with Balsamic Drizzle Recipe
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 2 pizzas (serves 6-8 people) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Caramelized Onion Kale Goat Cheese Pizza with Balsamic Drizzle combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, fresh kale, and tangy goat cheese on a wholesome whole wheat crust, finished with a sweet and tangy balsamic cream drizzle. Perfect for a gourmet homemade pizza experience with a nutritious twist.
Ingredients
For the Pizza
- 2 lbs part skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 prepared whole wheat pizza doughs (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 large onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz fresh baby kale
- 11 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- Red pepper flakes, optional
For the Balsamic Cream
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp unrefined sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it is hot enough to bake the pizza evenly and produce a crisp crust.
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat a cast iron skillet or any preferred skillet over medium to high heat. Add the sliced onions and olive oil, stirring occasionally. Cook the onions until they turn golden brown and caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Balsamic Cream: In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and unrefined sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the flame to low and simmer. Let the mixture reduce by about half, which should take 10-15 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow the balsamic cream to cool.
- Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour a flat surface to prevent sticking, and roll out each pizza dough to your desired size and thickness using a rolling pin. Transfer the dough onto a pizza stone, baking sheet, or cookie sheet, making sure to stretch it to the edges.
- Assemble the Pizza: Evenly spread 1 lb of shredded mozzarella cheese across each pizza dough. Top the cheese with the caramelized onions and then crumble the goat cheese evenly over the pizza.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the assembled pizzas in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Fresh Kale and Finish: Once baked, remove the pizzas from the oven. Immediately scatter the fresh baby kale on top, then drizzle generously with the prepared balsamic cream. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired for a spicy kick.
- Serve: Serve the pizzas hot to enjoy the blend of warm melted cheeses, sweet caramelized onions, fresh kale, and tangy balsamic drizzle.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions enhances their natural sweetness and adds rich flavor to the pizza.
- Balsamic cream can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Using whole wheat dough adds fiber and nutrients for a healthier pizza base.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste or omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust, but a baking sheet works as well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: caramelized onion pizza, kale pizza, goat cheese pizza, balsamic glaze pizza, whole wheat pizza dough, homemade pizza, vegetarian pizza

