Sausage Pizza Recipe
Introduction:
Pizza, a dish of Italian origin, has evolved into a global favorite, celebrated for its versatility and universally appealing flavors.
A sausage pizza combines the richness of meat with the classic robust taste of tomato sauce and melted cheese, all held together by a crisp, yet airy crust.
Making pizza from scratch might sound daunting, but it’s a surprisingly fun and rewarding process that can be tailored to suit any palate.
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm water
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Toppings:
1 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 pound cooked sausage, crumbled
Optional: red pepper flakes, oregano, or additional toppings like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers
Instructions:
Prepare the Pizza Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, or until frothy.
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, and stir until the dough begins to come together.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 7 to 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
Assemble the Pizza:
Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle or a rectangle if using a baking sheet.
Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined pizza peel or an inverted baking sheet if you don’t have a pizza peel.
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle half the mozzarella cheese over the sauce, add the crumbled sausage, and then top with the remaining cheese.
Add any additional seasonings or toppings as desired.
Bake the Pizza:
Slide the pizza (with the parchment) onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Serve:
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut.
Conclusion:
This homemade sausage pizza offers a delightful blend of savory flavors matched with a perfect chewy crust.
It’s a testament to the joy of making your own pizza, providing a customizable canvas to cater to individual tastes.
Whether it’s a family movie night or a gathering with friends, this sausage pizza promises to be a hit, bringing a slice of Italian tradition right into your kitchen.
Enjoy the process of making your pizza and the delicious results of your efforts!