Building Your Own Delicious Vegan Pizza at Papa Murphy's
For those following a vegan diet or exploring plant-based eating, convenience can be a major factor. The good news for pizza lovers is that Papa Murphy's has made it easier than ever to enjoy a take-and-bake pizza that aligns with a vegan lifestyle. By understanding which ingredients are safe to use and how to customize your order, you can craft a satisfying and flavorful meal. Since Papa Murphy's offers a 'take 'n' bake' model, you control the final product, baking it fresh in your own oven for a crispy, hot-from-the-oven experience.
Step 1: Choose Your Vegan Crust and Sauce
Your pizza begins with the foundation, and at Papa Murphy's, you have several delicious and dairy-free options for your base. Their standard crust offerings are suitable for vegans, with one notable exception.
Vegan Crusts:
- Original Crust
- Thin Crust
- Pan Crust
- Stuffed Crust
Sauce Selection: Next, you will choose a sauce to complement your toppings. Most traditional red sauces are naturally vegan, and Papa Murphy's confirms several options are free from animal products.
- Traditional Red Sauce
- Olive Oil & Garlic Sauce
- BBQ Sauce
- Sweet Chili Sauce
Important Note: Some sauces, such as the Creamy Garlic, contain dairy and should be avoided. Always specify that you want a vegan-friendly sauce when placing your order.
Step 2: Add the Dairy-Free Cheese
One of the biggest advancements for vegan pizza at Papa Murphy's was the introduction of a high-quality dairy-free cheese. The chain now offers Violife dairy-free cheese, a coconut oil-based alternative that melts and stretches just like traditional mozzarella. This means you no longer have to settle for a cheeseless pizza, and can enjoy that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Load Up on Plant-Based Toppings
This is where you can get creative and boost the nutritional profile of your pizza. Papa Murphy's offers a broad selection of fresh vegetable toppings. Loading your pizza with a variety of colorful vegetables is a great way to add vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.
Available Vegan Toppings:
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Mixed Onions (yellow, red, green)
- Green Peppers
- Black Olives
- Pineapple
- Roma Tomatoes
- Zucchini
- Artichoke Hearts
- Chopped Garlic
- Jalapeños
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Zesty Herb Blend
- Crushed Red Peppers
Nutritional Comparison: Vegan Pizza vs. Traditional Pizza
Beyond just taste, choosing a vegan pizza offers significant nutritional advantages. Here is a simplified comparison of what you might expect when comparing a customizable Papa Murphy's vegan pizza to a standard meat and cheese version.
| Feature | Papa Murphy's Vegan Pizza | Traditional Meat and Cheese Pizza |
|---|---|---|
| Saturated Fat | Generally lower, especially with Violife cheese replacing dairy. | Can be very high due to dairy cheese and processed meats. |
| Cholesterol | Contains no cholesterol, as it is derived entirely from plants. | High cholesterol levels from animal products. |
| Fiber Content | High, thanks to a generous amount of vegetable toppings. | Typically lower, depending on toppings. |
| Nutrient Density | Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables. | Can be lower in micronutrients if topped primarily with meat and cheese. |
| Digestive Health | Higher fiber content aids in digestion and gut health. | Heavier on the digestive system, especially for those with lactose intolerance. |
A Few Cautions for Your Order
While Papa Murphy's offers many vegan-friendly ingredients, it's important to be vigilant when ordering, particularly with specialty pizzas. Always customize your order from the ground up to ensure it meets vegan standards. For example, some 'specialty' pizzas with dairy-free cheese listed may contain non-vegan items in the default recipe, such as salami. Always check the online ingredient list or ask the staff for clarification.
In addition, be mindful of potential cross-contamination, especially for those with severe allergies. Papa Murphy's notes that shared kitchen spaces and equipment are used for preparing products with and without dairy or gluten.
Conclusion: A Convenient and Delicious Vegan Option
In conclusion, the answer to the question, does Papa Murphy have a vegan pizza? is a resounding yes, thanks to their commitment to offering customizable, plant-based options. By leveraging their vegan-friendly crusts, sauces, and a new dairy-free cheese, you can easily build a delicious and nutritious pizza that fits your dietary needs. The take-and-bake model makes it a fresh and convenient meal for any occasion. By being mindful of the ingredients and customizing your order, you can enjoy a perfect pizza night without compromise. For more detailed ingredient information, you can always visit the official Papa Murphy's nutrition page.
Visit Papa Murphy's official Nutrition page for detailed ingredient information
