why make this recipe

Making Italian Sausage and Tomato Pizza at home is a rewarding experience. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of savory sausage and fresh tomato sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a fun way to spend time with family or friends, and you can customize it just the way you like. Plus, homemade pizza is often fresher and tastier than takeout.

how to make Italian Sausage and Tomato Pizza

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage with fennel
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp oregano, dried
• 1 (28-ounce) can San Marzano tomatoes, whole
• 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal, yellow
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 5 tsp sugar
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 7 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 lb low moisture mozzarella, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 1/4 cups water

Directions:

1. In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add the minced garlic and oregano, and cook for another minute.
2. In a bowl, combine the whole San Marzano tomatoes (crushed), red pepper flakes, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, instant yeast, and sugar. Mix in the salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth, then let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and place it on a pizza stone or a baking sheet coated with butter.
7. Spread the tomato mixture over the crust, then add the cooked sausage. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, slice, and serve.

how to serve Italian Sausage and Tomato Pizza

Serve your delicious Italian Sausage and Tomato Pizza hot out of the oven. It’s perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in. You can slice it into wedges and offer some extra chili flakes, crushed garlic, or fresh basil on the side for guests to customize their slices.

how to store Italian Sausage and Tomato Pizza

If you have leftovers, let the pizza cool down completely, then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

tips to make Italian Sausage and Tomato Pizza

1. Make sure your dough is well-kneaded for a crispy crust.
2. Use quality ingredients, especially cheese and tomatoes, for the best flavor.
3. Don’t overload the toppings; less is sometimes more to keep the crust from getting soggy.
4. Experiment with different toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or fresh herbs.

variation (if any)

Feel free to try different types of sausage, like spicy Italian or chicken sausage. You can also change the cheeses to include provolone or goat cheese for a different flavor. Adding fresh vegetables like bell peppers or onions can create a delicious twist to this classic pizza.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, using store-bought pizza dough can save time. Just roll it out according to the package instructions and proceed with the recipe.

What if I don’t have San Marzano tomatoes?
You can use any canned whole tomatoes that you can find. Just crush them before adding to your sauce.

Can I freeze the pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pizza. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.